Turn-Based RPG Tianji: Shadow of the Ancients Announced for 2027, Directed

Justdan International has announced Tianji: Shadow of the Ancients, an internally developed turn-based RPG directed by the creator known as “the father of the Xuan-Yuan Sword series” for PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch 2, Nintendo Switch, and PC via Steam in 2027, with English, Japanese, Traditional Chinese, and Simplified Chinese language support.

Set during the Tianbao era of the Tang Dynasty, Tianji: Shadow of the Ancients follows the amnesiac Shangguan Shuo. Its story begins after the Imperial Court’s secret Tianji Guard investigates an ancient ruin in Bashu. During the operation, its commanding general puts on a bronze mask, loses control, and leaves the organization effectively dissolved.

Months later, the Xuanxin Order begins expanding throughout the region through masks and spiritual arts. Shangguan Shuo awakens inside one of the organization’s strongholds without his memories. His only clues are a Tianji Guard fish token and a strange mask, leading him to investigate his identity and the Xuanxin Order’s activities.

The combat uses a turn-based foundation built around combos. Chain Skills, Weak Point Exploitation, Pursuit Skills, Block Counters, and a No DMG Bonus are among the systems players can use to string actions together.

Having a sufficient level advantage also lets the party immediately clear weaker enemies instead of entering a standard battle.

Tianji uses high-definition hand-drawn 2D artwork influenced by traditional landscape paintings. Exploration includes climbing, swimming, and environmental puzzles. Towns also allow players to switch freely between day and night, with certain hidden events and items changing depending on the time.

Shangguan Shuo will recruit multiple companions over the course of the story. Outside of battle, individual party members have their own specialties covering activities such as cooking, equipment refinement, Core upgrades, and trading rare items.