The Atelier series is all about alchemists, or people who can synthesize materials together to create new and outlandish items. But have you ever wondered about the connection between alchemy in the Atelier series and alchemy as it has been practiced in our own world? In celebration of the launch of KOEI TECMO and Gust's Atelier Yumia: The Alchemist of Memories & the Envisioned Land, as well as the special Premium Box Edition available exclusively through the NIS Online Store, we're taking a special look at alchemy in Atelier Yumia: The Alchemist of Memories & the Envisioned Land and the real world!
The origins of alchemy are shrouded in mystery, but it is thought to have its roots in Hellenistic Egypt. It was a form of "natural philosophy," which was a school of thought that would eventually become the modern concept of science. Real-world alchemists sought to use various processes to "transmute," or convert, one material into another. The most important and famous of alchemical pursuits was "chrysopoeia," or the transmutation of "baser" metals such as lead into "noble" metals, like gold. Besides that, another common aim was to create "panaceas" that could cure any and all illnesses, including death itself.
On the other hand, alchemy in Atelier Yumia is much more practical. Alchemists use their synthesizing skills to combine anything—from water and minerals to plants and mystical gemstones—into useful items that they can either use themselves or give to the people of their local town. What ingredients are used can have a major effect on the final item, as some syntheses require specific materials, while others take a selection of possible ingredients, with rarer materials increasing the item's quality.
We can't say whether or not Yumia ever turns lead into gold, but as a member of the Aladiss Research Team, she will certainly have use for medicines and panaceas during her exploration! Imagine being able to take simple materials off of the ground, like plant fibers and water, and turn them into sterile bandages to heal your party in the blink of an eye! (If only medical equipment was as easy to produce in the real world...)
Atelier Yumia Premium Box Edition
Alchemy was practiced in our world all the way through the Renaissance and into the modern era, but with all of the bubbling alembics, open flames, and pressurized gases, it's probably a pursuit best left in the past. Thankfully, alchemy in Atelier Yumia is perfectly safe! (For the player, at least…) So if you'd like to try your hand at alchemy, pick up your copy of Atelier Yumia: The Alchemist of Memories & the Envisioned Land Premium Box Edition from the NIS Online Store today!
