Tianji: Shadow of the Ancients announced for PS5, Switch 2, Switch, and PC

The game blends classic RPG mechanics with a combo-focused battle system designed to deliver both the impact of an action game and deep strategic play. Players take on the role of Shangguan Shuo, an amnesiac protagonist who sets out to reclaim his past and true identity. His journey leads him through the landscapes of Bashu and a mysterious millennium-old subterranean city, where he becomes entangled in the massive conspiracy of the Xuanxin Order.

Set during the turbulent Tianbao era of the Tang Dynasty, the story begins as the Imperial Court’s secret organization, the Tianji Guard, investigates a millennium-old ruin in Bashu. During the mission, the commanding general dons an eerie bronze mask, loses his mind, and spirals out of control, leaving the organization existing in name only. Months later, the mysterious Xuanxin Order rises rapidly in the region through the use of masks and spiritual arts. Shangguan Shuo awakens in one of the Order’s strongholds with only two clues in his possession: a Tianji Guard fish token and a strange mask.

The combat system distinguishes itself from traditional turn-based RPGs through a core driven by combo mechanics. The game introduces systems such as Chain Skills, Weak Points Exploitation, Pursuit Skills, Block Counters, and No DMG Bonus. Players have complete control over enemy encounters on the map, utilizing a visible encounter system to decide whether to engage in battle. Level advantages can also be leveraged to instantly clear weaker foes, keeping exploration fast and fluid.

Visually, the game features high-definition, exquisite 2D hand-drawn art. The environments incorporate the brushstrokes and charm of traditional landscape paintings, creating highly immersive exploration maps. Meticulous attention to detail has been applied to character attire, traditional architecture, and local flora and fauna. Map exploration incorporates select action game elements, including climbing, swimming, and environmental puzzles, adding greater verticality and challenge to each area. Players can also freely switch between day and night in towns, triggering different hidden events and discovering valuable items that vary by time of day.

Throughout his adventure, Shangguan Shuo will meet numerous companions. Beyond combat, each companion has their own unique skill, allowing them to cook, refine equipment, upgrade Cores, and trade rare items. As their personal side stories unfold, players will gain a deeper understanding of their character arcs, and these unique skills will continue to develop to strongly support the adventure. The game will feature English, Japanese, Traditional Chinese, and Simplified Chinese language options.