Every time we lose faith in the gaming industry, we look toward Atlus to replenish our reserves.  Why?  They wuv their fans and have an excellent sense of humor.

Looks like their previously announced strategy guide replacement program has just officially launched.  The story behind this program comes from some "defective" guides included with Demon's Souls Deluxe Edition; seems the cover on some of those Official Strategy Guides are wearing or fading for no reason.  The unusual cover ink fading is happening frequently enough (though not to all) for Atlus to take notice.

Hence, the Demon's Souls Official Strategy Guide Replacement Program, which allows eligible customers to get a brand new guide.  The company has launched a webpage with detailed step-by-step instructions on how to apply, including pictures for people who... have trouble with words.

Crystal Murray, PR specialist at Atlus, notes the issue is not universal, but they're not about to leave fans high and dry.  No one knows why this fading occurs, though Atlus has a few ideas:

While it seems that not every copy of the guide is affected, and the cause of the cover ink fading remains unclear, we suspect a few Atlus staff of taking in too much of that new-game smell and over-inhaling the guides.  We appreciate the tremendous support Demon's Souls has received and we apologize for any inconvenience this has caused.

The Replacement Program will end on December 31, so don't wait too long.  Until then, Atlus has you covered (or guided).*

* That pun was from Atlus, not us.