Next update likely set for Tokyo Game Show 2017.

The latest issue of Dengeki PlayStation has an interview with A Certain Magical Virtual-On producer Jurou Wataru, who shared a few new details about the March-announced high-speed battle action game, including confirmation of a winter 2018 release window for Japan.

Here are the tidbits:

We’re trying to make the game as close to the game in the novel as possible.

While keeping the genes of Virtual-On, this is a reboot with the Virtual-On that appears in the novel.

Currently, we’ve passed the alpha version and are creating the basic parts of the game.

The number of Virtuaroids that appear in the game is still a secret. There will also be Virtuaroids outside of those that appeared in the novel.

For the rules, we’re thinking of a framework based on points, so we’re constructing a way of putting together regulations and actions to go along with them.

You gain points by stealing downs, and the outcome is determined by the number of points you have.

The game isn’t just online battles and co-op, there is a single-player story to enjoy as well.

Since each Index character has a special ability, the idea is to choose and combine them with compatible Virtuaroids.

There are plenty of games where you fight in 3D spaces. I want to propose a new way of playing. It will be important to incorporate the abilities of the Index characters.

Nowadays there aren’t as many players who find enjoyment in one-on-one battles as there were back in the day, so we need a design suited to modern society in addition to the one-on-one battle style.

I want the game content to allow even users who don’t play games much to have fun.

I may be able to say something regarding the game’s release window at the Tokyo Game Show. Right now, I can’t say anything more than “winter 2018.”

A Certain Magical Virtual-On will be available for PlayStation 4 and PS Vita.

Thanks, Games Talk and Hachima Kikou.