Tianji: Shadow of the Ancients has been announced for Nintendo Switch and Switch 2, with the new turn-based RPG currently planned for release in 2027. Developed and published by Justdan International, the game combines traditional RPG combat with exploration inspired by ancient China.
The story takes place during the Tang Dynasty and follows Shangguan Shuo, a member of the Tianji Guard who has lost his memory. His only clues are a mysterious mask and a token connected to the organization. His search for answers eventually brings him into conflict with the Xuanxin Order, a group using masks and supernatural techniques for its own hidden purposes.
Development is being led by Tsai Ming-Hung, best known as the creator of the long-running Xuan-Yuan Sword series. This time, however, Tianji: Shadow of the Ancients is being introduced as a completely new RPG rather than another entry in that franchise.
Turn-Based Battles Built Around Combos
Combat remains turn-based, but Tianji: Shadow of the Ancients is aiming for a much quicker rhythm than a traditional menu-driven RPG. Its main mechanic revolves around chaining attacks together through skills, enemy weaknesses, follow-up moves and counters.
Battles can also reward clean play. Finishing an encounter without taking damage can grant additional rewards, giving players another reason to think carefully about party setups and attack order.
Enemies appear directly on the field rather than triggering random encounters. Players can decide when to engage, while significantly weaker enemies can sometimes be defeated immediately without entering a full battle. That should help exploration move at a faster pace, particularly when revisiting earlier areas.
Exploration Goes Beyond Traditional RPG Maps
Tianji: Shadow of the Ancients uses detailed 2D artwork inspired by traditional Chinese landscape paintings. Exploration is more active than a typical RPG map. Players can climb walls, swim and solve environmental puzzles along the way.
Towns also feature a controllable day-and-night cycle. Some events only appear at certain times. The same applies to several rare items, which gives players a reason to revisit earlier locations.
Party members also have useful abilities outside combat. Some characters can cook food, while others can refine equipment or sell rare items. These abilities can improve as players progress through their personal side stories.
Tianji: Shadow of the Ancients will launch worldwide in 2027 for Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, PS5 and PC. English subtitles have also been confirmed. A specific release date has not been announced yet.
