Justdan International has announced Tianji: Shadow of the Ancients, an internally developed turn-based RPG directed by “the father of the Xuan-Yuan Sword series.” It will launch for PlayStation 5, Switch 2, Switch, and PC via Steam in 2027 with English, Japanese, Traditional Chinese, and Simplified Chinese language options.
Here is an overview of the game, via Justdan International:
About
Tianji: Shadow of the Ancients is a turn-based RPG set in the Tang Dynasty, blending classic RPG mechanics with a combo-focused battle system. This delivers both the satisfying impact of an action game and deep strategic play. Players will step into the shoes of the amnesiac protagonist, Shangguan Shuo. On a journey to reclaim his past and true identity, he will explore the landscapes of Bashu and a mysterious millennium-old subterranean city, gradually becoming entangled in the massive conspiracy of the mysterious Xuanxin Order.
An Epic Story of the Tang Dynasty and the Mystery of the Bronze Mask
Set during the turbulent Tianbao era of the Tang Dynasty, the story of Tianji: Shadow of the Ancients 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. The amnesiac protagonist, 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. To recover the truth of his identity, Shangguan Shuo embarks on a suspenseful journey, gradually uncovering the shocking conspiracy behind the Xuanxin Order.
Fast-Paced, Combo-Driven Combat
Setting itself apart from traditional turn-based RPGs, Tianji: Shadows of the Ancients features a combat core driven by combo mechanics. Introducing systems like Chain Skills, Weak Points Exploitation, Pursuit Skills, Block Counters, and No DMG Bonus.
Beyond strategic depth, unleash seamless strikes to experience fast, exhilarating, and non-stop combat flow.Furthermore, players have complete control over enemy encounters on the map. The game utilizes a visible encounter system, allowing you to decide whether to engage in battle. You can also leverage level advantages to instantly clear weaker foes, keeping exploration fast and fluid.
Exquisite 2D Hand-Drawn Art and Dynamic Exploration
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, further enhancing the fun of exploration.
Deep Character Progression and Companion Bonds
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.
Watch the announcement trailer below. View the first screenshots at the gallery.
Announce Trailer
English
Japanese
Traditional Chinese