Fire Emblem Fortune’s Weave Might Have Teased a Time-Skip Feature

As the launch of Fire Emblem: Fortune’s Weave draws near, fans are buzzing with questions about Intelligent Systems’ and Nintendo’s latest entry in the series. Is Fortune’s Weave a sequel, a prequel, or something entirely different? What part do the Nabateans and Agarthans play? Why are guns classified as gauntlets? And does Leda have romantic interests in girls?

While all these questions are intriguing, the latest trailer from Japan may have inadvertently addressed another burning question: will Fortune’s Weave feature a time skip?

Time-related mechanics have been a staple in many Fire Emblem titles. A prime example is Fire Emblem: Three Houses, which introduced a five-year time skip after players completed the Monastery section, allowing protagonist Byleth to reunite with their now-grown students from the Black Eagles, Blue Lions, and Golden Deer houses. This moment was both touching and provided fresh designs for beloved characters.

Although there hasn’t been an official confirmation regarding a time skip in Fortune’s Weave, a closer look at the gameplay showcased in the latest trailer reveals something interesting. During a segment where the player character battles dark forces in a future setting, they are accompanied by several different characters.

One character that catches the eye is Cai, who appears on horseback wielding a lance. At first, he seems similar to his previous self, but a closer inspection reveals that he has larger arms and appears taller, even while mounted. His hairstyle has also changed noticeably. Cai isn’t alone in this transformation; Dietrich, known for his striking hair and spiky armor, looks taller with a cropped hairstyle. The only recognizable feature is his sword, a Heroes’ Relic.

There is a possibility that these changes could be attributed to different class outfits. If Fortune’s Weave follows the pattern of previous Fire Emblem games, characters can alter their appearance based on their chosen class. For instance, a brawler in Three Houses dons a rugged look, while a fortress knight sports heavy armor and a large shield.

However, class changes typically affect outfits, not hairstyles. This leads to speculation that a time skip might indeed be part of Fortune’s Weave. Fans on various forums have also noted that the trailer showcases distinct designs for the characters, raising the question: why change character designs if not for a time skip?

Until we get our hands on Fortune’s Weave, we can’t say for certain whether a time skip will be included. But based on what we’ve seen so far, things are looking promising for those hoping for this feature.

With multiple paths, a potential time jump, and the allure of time travel, the excitement continues to build.