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Reflector’s Latest News

News

<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Reflector Entertainment and Bandai Namco Entertainment Europe are thrilled to announce the worldwide release of <em>Unknown 9: Awakening</em>.</h3>



<p>It’s a momentous day for our Montreal studio as we proudly announce the worldwide launch of our very <a href="/en/our-video-games" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">first video game</a>, <em>Unknown 9: Awakening</em>!</p>



<p>After countless hours of ideating, collaborating, creating, testing, and adjusting, to say we’re excited for you to step into Haroona’s shoes and join her quest is an understatement.</p>



<p>Our heroine is ready to step into the unknown and fulfil her destiny. Are you? Watch the action-adventure game’s cinematic launch trailer and learn more about Reflector’s journey to launch.</p>



<p></p>



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://youtu.be/JZbm_bex7kY
</div></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Road to Release</h2>



<p>From the initial concept to the final polish, our journey has been filled with challenges and successes, fruitful collaborations, and valuable takeaways, all fueled by our passion for telling great stories and developing creative gameplay experiences.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">The rise of Unknown 9: Awakening</h3>



<p>What started as an idea to create something more than a game has since transformed into the development of a fully loaded narrative universe!</p>



<p>From the outset, we wanted to tell a story full of mystery and adventure about humanity’s evolution; a tale that would instill hope, possibility, and a sense of wonder into people’s lives.</p>



<p>To do so, our teams worked diligently to establish an iron-clad mythology that would guide our <a href="/en/universe-building" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">world-building</a> efforts, fuel our game and its world’s rich lore, and ensure we remained true to our initial intentions from start to finish.</p>



<p></p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://content.reflectorentertainment.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Ref-Web_In-Text1_U9-Awakening-Launch_Haroona-Fight.png" alt="Video game heroine Haroona fights an Ascendant soldier." class="wp-image-1135"/></figure>



<p>From a development perspective, it was important to devise mechanics that were both unique and, of course, fun to play around with. With <em>Unknown 9: Awakening</em>, it all started with Haroona’s "stepping" ability, which became the foundation for the combat system’s other elements, all of which were designed to give players agency in devising their own unique strategies to progress through the game.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">The creation of the Unknown 9 narrative universe</h3>



<p>As the game’s technical and narrative development picked up speed, so did the creation of the larger universe’s many other stories.</p>



<p>Our goal has always been to create worlds made up of overlapping adventures, each one connected in some way to the next and tailored to fit a specific medium. After all, we’re game developers <span style="text-decoration: underline;">and</span> transmedia storytellers!</p>



<p>To create a seamless <a href="/en/news/going-beyond-gaming-with-the-unknown9-experience" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">transmedia experience</a> for Unknown 9, our narrative designers and game developers worked closely together to identify the key lore, gameplay, and story elements to carry over from one medium to the next.</p>



<p>The result has since taken the form of a narrative-driven action-adventure game that launches players into a universe riddled with crossovers, callbacks, and Easter eggs!</p>



<p></p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://content.reflectorentertainment.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Ref-Web_In-Text2_U9-Awakening-Launch_Haroona-Leap.png" alt="Unknown 9: Awakening's Haroona leaps across a canyon." class="wp-image-1134"/></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Key Collaborations </h2>



<p>While collaboration across Reflector’s teams was vital to bringing our game and transmedia experience to life, we also had a chance to partner with incredible talent that only served to bolster the experiences we were crafting.</p>



<p>The talented Anya Chalotra portrays <em>Unknown 9: Awakening</em> heroine Haroona, in her first video game role. Having had a chance to work with such a strong and inspiring woman to bring our heroine to life was incredible, to say the least.</p>



<p></p>



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://youtu.be/uduDyCzGRHc
</div></figure>



<p>Another inspiring artist we worked with was American singer songwriter BANKS, who co-produced Unknown 9’s official theme song in collaboration with Reflector’s audio and narrative teams.</p>



<p>Available on all major streaming platforms, the track is also featured on <em>Unknown 9: Awakening</em>’s Official Soundtrack.</p>



<p></p>



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://youtu.be/dqThFci-SI8
</div></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">About the Game</h2>



<p><em>Unknown 9: Awakening</em> is our Montreal game studio’s first narrative-driven action-adventure game. Its story centres on Haroona, a powerful young Quaestor whose connection to a mysterious dimension called the Fold gifts her unique Umbric abilities.</p>



<p>After witnessing the fall of her beloved mentor at the hands of Vincent Lichter, she sets off to exact revenge on him and his army of Ascendants, a splinter faction of the Leap Year Society who want to use the Fold to usher in a new era for humanity.</p>



<p>As Haroona’s journey progresses, she learns to master her Fold-powered abilities, finds allies in the Leap Year Society, and fights to prevent the world’s long-lost knowledge—powerful secrets said to be guarded by the Unknown 9—from falling into the wrong hands.</p>



<p>The game is available now on PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X | S, Xbox One, and PC via Steam.</p>



<p></p>



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://youtu.be/EdYAbBBk29Y
</div></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A Look Ahead as we Work to Develop Other IP</h2>



<p>The launch of <em>Awakening </em>marks the end of a very important chapter in our video game development company’s <a href="/en/news/reflector-evolution-as-a-bandai-namco-owned-studio" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">continued evolution</a>. And the best part is, this is just the beginning!</p>



<p>While the Unknown 9 universe continues to expand in the coming months through the extension of existing stories and the addition of new adventures, we’re also currently developing an <a href="/en/news/bandai-namco-new-ip-montreal" data-type="page" data-id="1140" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">all-new experience</a> for a popular Bandai Namco brand!</p>



<p>To bring our next video game to life, we’re looking to fill positions within our animation, level design, game design, and art teams. If you’re interested in joining us and contributing to the development of a great IP, check out our <a href="https://emplois.reflectorentertainment.com/l/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">open positions </a>and learn <a href="/en/news/8-reasons-to-work-at-reflector" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">why should join</a> our video game development studio.</p>

From Concept to Console and PC: Unknown 9: Awakening is Out Now!

<h4 class="wp-block-heading">Reflector Entertainment and Bandai Namco Europe announce Unknown 9: Awakening’s release date alongside a Live-Action Trailer today at Gamescom.</h4>



<p>Exciting news! <em><a href="/en/our-video-games" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Unknown 9: Awakening</a></em> officially launches on PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, and PC via Steam on October 18, 2024, with pre-orders available now. The announcement marks yet another major milestone in our video game studio’s history.</p>



<p>Here’s a recap of everything that was revealed today!</p>



<p></p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Unknown 9: Awakening’s new Live-Action Trailer</h2>



<p>Anya Chalotra takes centre stage once again in the latest trailer, which premiered today during Opening Night Live. It underscores heroine Haroona’s readiness to awaken her powers and embark on her quest into the unknown. It also offers a preview of the video game’s official theme song, A Light Lies Within, which pays homage to our protagonist’s journey to Umbric greatness!</p>



<p></p>



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://youtu.be/2x8ZnixnPwY
</div></figure>



<p></p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Pre-orders now open</h2>



<p>As of today, players can pre-order the various editions of the game and score a bonus cosmetic DLC pack. Depending on the edition selected, it’s also possible to unlock up to three additional cosmetic DLCs as well as collectors’ items!  </p>



<p></p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://content.reflectorentertainment.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/U9_Live-Action-1024x683-1.png" alt="Unknown 9: Awakening Video Game Editions and Cosmetic DLCs. " class="wp-image-1053"/></figure>



<p>Players can choose from the following editions:<br></p>



<p></p>



<ol class="wp-block-list">
<li>Pre-Order Edition:
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Includes the base game and a pre-order bonus cosmetic DLC.<br><br></li>
</ul>
</li>



<li>Deluxe Digital Edition:
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Includes the base game, pre-order bonus, as well as three additional DLCs.<br><br></li>
</ul>
</li>



<li>Collector's Edition:
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Includes the base game, pre-order bonus cosmetic DLC, and collector’s items.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ol>



<p>The Collector’s Edition, which is exclusively sold in the Bandai Namco Store, includes replicas of Reika’s amulet, a LYS membership coin, a Quaestor’s journal containing exclusive artwork along with hidden links to the <a href="/en/universe-building" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">larger Unknown 9 universe</a>, and more!  </p>



<p>For additional information about preorders and DLCs as well as the latest <em>Unknown 9: Awakening</em> developments, head over to the<a href="https://en.bandainamcoent.eu/unknown-9/unknown-9-awakening" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> official game page</a>! Those curious about what the rest of our narrative universe has to offer, be sure to visit <a href="https://www.bandainamcoent.com/games/unknown9/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Unknown9.com</a>.  </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Join our next major production!</h2>



<p>As <em>Unknown 9: Awakening</em>’s release date looms closer, our Montreal-based team is hard at work developing the next major <a href="/en/news/bandai-namco-new-ip-montreal" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Reflector x Bandai Namco project</a>.</p>



<p>If contributing to the expansion of a beloved IP sounds interesting to you, check out our <a href="https://emplois.reflectorentertainment.com/l/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">open positions</a> and apply today!</p>

Unknown 9: Awakening Releases Worldwide on October 18

<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Reflector and Bandai Namco Europe reveal Unknown 9: Awakening Story Trailer at Summer Game Fest.</h3>



<p>A loved one lost, a former pupil gone rogue, and new motives exposed—these are just a few of the details brought to light in the trailer that premiered today.</p>



<p>If you missed our appearance at Summer Game Fest, here’s what you need to know about the latest narrative details revealed about <em>Unknown 9: Awakening</em>.</p>



<p></p>



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://youtu.be/xamYbHWrH3s
</div></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A closer look at Unknown 9: Awakening</h2>



<p>Set to release this fall, the game centres on Haroona, a tenacious young woman seeking revenge upon those who’ve done her wrong. Played by Anya Chalotra, Haroona isn’t your average adventurer. As curious as she is resourceful, her connection to the Fold gifts her incredible powers (Umbric abilities) that players can wield against whoever stands in their way.</p>



<p>While those who caught the <a href="/en/news/reflector-reveals-unknown-9-awakening-first-gameplay" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Announcement Trailer</a> premiere in March got a peek at some of the gameplay, <em>Awakening</em>’s Story Trailer dives deeper into the game’s narrative elements.</p>



<p>Viewers will discover Haroona’s motivations, spot new characters, and glean additional intel on the enigmatic figures at the heart of <a href="/en/universe-building" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">our universe</a>’s many adventures—the Unknown 9.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Meet the Quaestors</h2>



<p>Quaestors are <em>Unknown 9</em>’s resident truth seekers. They’re the ones that venture into the depths of the unknown to unearth lost wisdom. Though several Quaestors make cameos in the Story Trailer, two in particular have greatly impacted Haroona’s life, and will inevitably drive the player experience.</p>



<p></p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://content.reflectorentertainment.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Unknown9_Awakening_Reika_ENv2.png" alt="Haroona’s mentor, Reika, smiles at her. " class="wp-image-1019"/></figure>



<p>Reika, our protagonist’s beloved mentor, possesses an unmatched mastery of the Fold. Her Umbric gifts and worldly wisdom have shaped Haroona into the powerful Quaestor she is today.</p>



<p>The game’s main antagonist, Vincent Lichter, is the Ascendants' leader and a former pupil of Reika’s. His growing frustrations about her blind faith in the 9 coupled with a momentous Fold discovery he made has caused him to reject her teachings. Believing that humankind should take back control of its own destiny, he’s rallied his loyal followers together to expose age-old secrets that threaten to usher in a new, more chaotic, world order.</p>



<p>When his and Reika’s paths cross, he swiftly takes her down in the name of his cause. This devastating loss is what sets in motion Haroona’s revenge mission.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The History of the Unknown 9</h2>



<p>Reika explains how these enigmatic figures once belonged to an ancient civilization called the Sahin, an advanced society wiped from the face of the earth many millennia ago. During its fall, nine of its members were made immortal and entrusted with protecting all of humanity’s knowledge. They’ve since watched over us for centuries, acting on the powerful wisdom they guard at specific moments in time to guide us in the right direction.  </p>



<p></p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://content.reflectorentertainment.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Unknown9_Awakening_Cave.png" alt="Nine hooded figures etched into a cave wall. " class="wp-image-1004"/></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Platform and wish list details</h2>



<p><em>Unknown 9: Awakening</em> releases in the fall of 2024 on PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox one, Xbox series X|S and PC via Steam. Players can add the game to their wish lists on all major platforms.</p>



<p>For the latest developments on all things <em>Unknown 9: Awakening</em>, visit <a href="https://www.bandainamcoent.com/games/unknown9/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Unknown9.com</a> and follow us on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/unknown9" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@official_U9" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">YouTube</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/OfficialU9" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Facebook</a>, and <a href="https://tiktok.com/@reflector" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">TikTok</a>. And don’t forget to join the conversation on <a href="https://twitter.com/Unknown9" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">X</a> and our official <a href="https://discord.gg/unknown9" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Discord </a>channel!</p>



<p></p>



<p><em>If you’d like to contribute to the next major Reflector Entertainment x Bandai Namco project, good news! We’re looking for talented individuals with game development experience to join our Montreal video game studio.</em></p>



<p><em>Interested in working on the expansion of a <a href="/en/news/bandai-namco-new-ip-montreal" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">popular Bandai Namco IP</a>? View our <a href="https://emplois.reflectorentertainment.com/l/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">open positions </a>and apply today!</em></p>

Unknown 9: Awakening’s New Trailer Thickens the Plot