Get your mapping tools out because Atlus announced they are localizing Etrian Odyssey IV. Etrian Odyssey IV: Legends of the Titan has a number of changes starting with the hot air balloon you travel in.

All of the monsters, like this bear ready to leap out of the screen, are drawn with polygons, a first for the series. You can also see F.O.E.s clearly on the field interacting with other objects in the game’s many dungeons.

While Etrian Odyssey series is known for being hardcore, the game has a casual mode for newcomers. Casual mode takes you back to town if you die instead of ending the game and gives you an item that lets you warp to town at anytime. Etrian Odyssey IV: Legends of the Titan is slated for release in early 2013.