Shaman King: Power of Spirit E3 2004 Preshow Impressions

First announced toward the end of 2003, Shaman King: Power of Spirit is a strategy and fighting title based on the Shaman King TV series that made its FoxBox debut last year but was first introduced in Japan back in 1998. The show, for those of you who are unfamiliar with it, follows the story of a junior high student named Yoh Asakura, who, unbeknownst to all but his close friends, is a shaman with the ability to communicate with ghosts and spirits.

In the game, you'll assume control of Yoh and his shamanic friends, who have been robbed of their powers by a mysterious force known as the Fourth Millennium, which is plotting to take over the earth. To defeat the Fourth Millennium, you'll need to employ multiple fighting styles (like those involving hand-to-hand, long-range, and group-attack combat) against enemies, secure valuable items, and gain new abilities on your journey to become the next Shaman King. Despite being based on both comics and a TV series, the game's storyline, as well as a number of its characters, are all new.

"The unique characters, style, and compelling storylines in the Shaman King animated series have given us a rich background to work with for these video games," said Erica Mason, product manager, Konami Digital Entertainment - America. "Shaman King for the PlayStation 2 and Game Boy Advance provides fans with a new and unique way to experience the world of Shaman King."

In addition to the single-player game, Shaman King: Power of Spirit will feature a two-player versus mode. We'll bring you more information on the game as soon as it becomes available.