Good Smile Company officially launched the 3D action game Patlabor: Case Files on September 17. The title is now available on PS5, Steam, and the Epic Games Store, supporting Japanese voice acting and subtitles.
Based on the world of Patlabor, the game allows players to revisit stories from Special Vehicle Section 2 as depicted in the theatrical films, TV anime, and NEW OVA versions. In addition to participating in classic scenes from the protagonists' perspective, some content also lets players control opposing factions from the original work and face off against Special Vehicle Section 2.
The game features over 20 Laborers and other weapons, including the AV-98 Ingram used by Special Vehicle Section 2, the TYPE-J9 Griffin known as the "Black Laborer," as well as the AV-X0 Zero, HAL-X10, and the attack helicopter Hellhound.
In addition to the story content, the game features modes such as Laborer robot simulation battles and shooting training. The story sections are fully voiced, with main characters voiced by the original cast from the TV anime series, and include a large number of newly recorded lines.
The production staff includes Yutaka Izubuchi for mechanical supervision, Kazunori Ito for script supervision, Akemi Takada for character art supervision, and Kenji Kawai composing the theme music. The developers stated that the game is fully supervised by the original Patlabor staff.
PS5 Digital Deluxe Edition players gained early access to the game on September 14. Based on feedback received during the early access period, the development team plans to improve shooting accuracy in assist modes within October and has stated that updates will continue to be released after launch.
Patlabor: Case Files will also release DLC featuring the "Ingram Plus" from the movie Patlabor EZY. Steam and the Epic Games Store are currently offering a 10% launch discount, which will last for 14 days.