Shadow of the Road, the upcoming narrative-driven tactical RPG from publisher Owlcat Games and developer Another Angle Games, invites you to step into a world where Japanese mythology collides with steampunk innovation. The game’s latest trailer unveils a central element of its allure: the enigmatic yōkai, supernatural entities drawn from Japanese folklore that play a pivotal role in the unfolding drama.
The yōkai in Shadow of the Road are diverse, embodying a spectrum of personalities and intentions. Some act as loyal guardians, forging deep connections with the game’s protagonists, while others pose deadly threats, transforming combat encounters into high-stakes challenges. These spirits are unpredictable and powerful, their motives often shrouded in mystery. As you navigate the intricate interplay between humans and yōkai, the choices you make and bonds you form will shape the course of the story.
Players can encounter yōkai as formidable foes or harness their unique powers, altering the tide of battle in spectacular ways. This integration of supernatural abilities adds depth and dynamism to the game’s turn-based combat system, enhancing both the gameplay and its narrative impact.
Set in an alternate 19th-century Japan during the tumultuous final days of the Boshin War, Shadow of the Road offers a rich tapestry of storytelling. Tradition and modernity clash as the Shogunate faces off against imperial forces in a struggle for power. Against this backdrop, you’ll lead a group of adventurers on a journey rife with intrigue, danger, and moral complexity. Your choices will determine the fates of not just individuals, but also the trajectory of the larger conflict.
The game’s core features promise an immersive and emotionally engaging experience. At the heart of the narrative is Tokugawa’s spymaster, who brings together an unlikely team, including the ronin warriors Satoru and Akira, to protect a boy with immense, uncontrollable powers. As the story unfolds, you’ll meet a cast of richly developed characters, each with their own motivations, fears, and desires. Relationships evolve based on your decisions, influencing the group’s dynamics.
Combat blends traditional samurai aesthetics with tactical turn-based mechanics. Each character’s unique abilities, personal stakes, and relationships influence their effectiveness on the battlefield, ensuring that every decision carries weight. Shadow of the Road release date is yet to be announced, below the Yōkai trailer.
