Ah, it seems like we've been talking about Dragon Quest Swords: The Masked Queen and the Tower of Mirrors for forever, and now, more than half a year after the Japanese release, we finally have a North American release date.

A press release from Square Enix tells us that the Wii RPG-turned-action title will hit the shelves of North American retailers on February 26th. Dragon Quest Swords: The Masked Queen and the Tower of Mirrors lets players use the Wii Remote like a sword, attacking enemies and blocking attacks.

Square Enix also mentions new features for the North American release, including four hidden bosses and something called "Payback Mode." Unfortunately, no other details on this new mode were given.  

Hit the jump to read the full release. 

Square Enix, Inc., the publisher of Square Enix™ interactive entertainment products in North America, announced today that DRAGON QUEST® SWORDS: The Masked Queen and the Tower of Mirrors™, the newest entry in the renowned franchise, is set to slice its way to North American retailers on February 26, 2008.   

Developed exclusively for the Wii™, DRAGON QUEST SWORDS: The Masked Queen and the Tower of Mirrors fully utilizes the motion-sensing capabilities of the Wii Remote™ to place a mighty blade, protective shield and special attacks all in the palm of your hand. The latest installment of the premiere RPG franchise that has shipped over 43 million units worldwide brings the colorful world of DRAGON QUEST to life, enhancing your action-adventure experience with added levels of fun and interaction.

 

Story

Five years have passed since the defeat of the Deathbringer, and the kingdom of Avalonia joyously celebrates what seems to be an everlasting era of peace. However, a closer look reveals that things are amiss. Calamity arises within the kingdom, as unfamiliar and powerful monsters invade the outskirts of town. With the Deathbringer gone, what explanation is there for the onset of these monsters? And what of the queen, who has come to hide her face behind a strange mask?  Make your way through the perilous journey, solve the baffling mysteries and return order to Avalonia.

 

Features

• Delve into an unforgettable gaming experience, created by the "big three" – a team comprised of series creator Yuji Horii, legendary manga artist Akira Toriyama and renowned composer Koichi Sugiyama.

• Show off your swordsmanship, block enemy attacks, and use special skills, all through the simple and intuitive use of the Wii Remote!

• Combine materials to personalize your sword, allowing you to engage in battles unique to your customized abilities and powers.

• Experience an epic adventure in the world of DRAGON QUEST, rendered through stunning visuals and a powerful soundtrack delivered by famed game music composers Manami Matsumae and Koichi Sugiyama.

• Take on the challenges presented by all-new features for the North American release, including a "Payback Mode" and four hidden bosses!

 

DRAGON QUEST SWORDS: The Masked Queen and the Tower of Mirrors is rated T (Teen). Please visit the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) website at www.esrb.com for more information about ratings. DRAGON QUEST SWORDS: The Masked Queen and the Tower of Mirrors will be available at North American retailers for the suggested retail price of $49.99(USD).