Based on the popular anime series, Bleach: The 3rd Phantom is being developed exclusively for the Nintendo DS.

A spin-off from the main narrative, Bleach: The 3rd Phantom is a traditional strategy RPG with anime styled combat during in-game battles. It also features an exclusive storyline that has been developed specifically for the game; under the supervision of Bleach author and creator, Tite Kubo.

Shedding light on events that took place before the anime, the focus is on the Soul Reaper twins; Fujimaru Kudo and his sister Matsuri Kudo. As gamers progress through the story, faces familiar and new will make an appearance.

The two lead characters will offer unique game-play experiences as well as the opportunity to work cooperatively. With a further cast of over 50 characters who can be selected to join the battle, players will encounter a wide range of personalities as they journey through the game.

Click on the thumbnails for larger views.

The game will also feature “interactive in-game dialogue sequences” which allow gamers to manage personal relationships with the characters and also the ability to unlock new ones. As players battle against the Arrancar and Hollows, they will gain crucial experience to further customise their abilities. Each character will have unique skills and abilities and it’s up to you to adapt to the various situations and to create and command an army of up to 8 Soul Reapers.

…the graphics in the field map features outrageous renditions of BLEACH characters in a 3-D isometric environment, while in-game battles are rendered with beautiful 2-D graphics taken from the animated series. Once gamers complete the story mode, a bounty of unlockable content awaits them.

Bleach: The 3rd Phantom will include a multiplayer mode that allows up to 2 players to battle head-to-head via wireless mode. The game is scheduled for European release in early 2010, stay tuned.

Bleach: The 3rd Phantom [Official game page]

Press release [Sega]