Let me start by thanking everyone for patiently waiting for news about Drakengard 3. We’ve been quiet for a long time, but today, we’re dropping some huge news — the silence is no more!

Let’s start big: we’ve got a release date. Drakengard 3 is coming out on May 20th, 2014, for $49.99 on PS3. Mark your calendars, and keep that pen out, because there are a couple more dates I’d like you to note.

If you pre-order Drakengard 3 before March 4th, or if you already have, you’ll be locked in for three bonus items — all at no extra charge. The first item is something I know those of you who appreciate an authentic gaming experience have asked for time and again, and your voices have been heard. You’ll be getting the Japanese Voice Over DLC pack.

As for the second and third items… they’re a secret! We’ll reveal the second item on March 4th, and the third item on April 9th. Basically, the earlier you pre-order, the more you get. If you wait past March 4th, you’ll only get two items. The Japanese VO DLC will have expired. If you wait past April 9th, you’ll only get one item.

Last but not least, retailing for $79.99 exclusively from the Square Enix Online Store, the Drakengard 3 Collector’s Edition was crafted with the fans who’ve loved Drakengard since the PS2 days. Of course, it’s also accessible to newcomers as well, with the original Japanese box art and that gorgeous, bloody flower on the case.

This version comes with some incredible stuff, including a complete prequel novella — a collection of short stories written from the perspectives of each character. It’s also got a selection of tracks by acclaimed composer Keiichi Okabe. We’ve mentioned he also composed Nier, haven’t we?

The Collector’s Edition also comes packed with more content and a few nods to series fans. It’s got a full DLC stage featuring Zero’s sister, One, as a playable character. And for the long-time fans, you can equip Zero in the Caim costume. Aesthetically, the costume is reminiscent of the original Drakengard, but functionally, it decreases stamina consumption when using a skill. Finally, the Giant Baby Hat is for your dragon, which needs no introduction to those of you who know this series.

One very important fact I should mention about this version is that only 5,000 of these are going to be produced. We’re giving you the number upfront so that you know that when we say limited quantity, we mean limited. And rest assured, pre-ordering the Collector’s Edition also gets you all three pre-order bonus items, no matter when you order it.

I hope we’ve made up for that prolonged silence with all this news. If you have any questions, be sure to ask us in the comments!