Gameplay in Sonderia revolves around the “ASPIRE” system (Art, Social, Political, Intellect, Religion, and Economics), where your stats are determined by how you decide to rule your kingdom and choices you make in dialogue. For instance, a player that seeks to focus on romance and building relationships with other characters will have a strong Art and Social focus–this will result in a playstyle that revolves around creative negotiation and forging relationships with named allies. On the other hand, a player that puts time into military investment will build upon the Economic stat, in which they invest funds into their battalions to defend Sonderia and build their empire.

Sonderia's combat takes place on a grid map, with units taking turns based on their speed and amount of energy exerted through previous actions. Each unit possesses a static class with unique ability point mechanics and skills. They are obtained through story progression, socializing, and even secret routes...!

The board also features random effect tiles to add further variety to encounters, as well as a negotiation system once you have backed the enemy into a corner. This system is currently under active development and will undergo various balancing passes as playtesting continues!