Mario + Rabbids
Image: Ubisoft

Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hope is set to release on 20th October, and while that still seems like a long way away, Ubisoft is making sure it doesn't feel light-years away. Today, the developer published a video interview with the game's lead producer, Xavier Manzanares, which gives more details about some of the game's new features.

The interview covers the game's new playable characters, Bowser and Edge; the latter is seen in action with moves that prioritise close and mid-range combat, while Bowser's size makes him a more unusual addition. These characters were revealed in an earlier trailer, but this new gameplay footage means you can get a head start on planning your ultimate line-up.

Aside from these character introductions, Manzanares also explains the role of two of the new planets on which you will be able to do battle in Sparks of Hope. Beacon Beach is "all about sun, the beach", with a temple full of octopus-like ornaments, but the whole planet is washed over in darkness and rain. Your job on this planet is to remove that darkness and bring the party back to the beach.

Pristine Peaks is pretty much the polar opposite — literally. This tundra has a central mountain, caves, and a hidden palace which will be home to one of the game's big fights. Completing tasks on these planets will open up new missions for you to complete on each planet.

Manzanares also expanded on the game's new Spark Powers — selectable abilities that "come with their own active and passive bonuses". With the removal of the classic grid system featured in Mario + Rabbids Kingdom Battle, effective use of these new techniques look set to be the key to victory.

Check out the video below for a full rundown of every new detail that you can expect to see in Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hope.

What characters would you most like to see added to the franchise? Let us know down in the comments!

Further reading

[source youtube.com]