Equalizer, an established developer with roots spanning back to the 1990s, has officially revealed that its retro-inspired pixel-art RPG, Mythic Yi, is in development and set for release on the Nintendo Switch in 2026.
This announcement brings together the nostalgia of classic turn-based RPGs with the modern beauty of HD-2D visuals, promising a unique journey through ancient Chinese myths. Drawing on the team’s extensive experience and the enduring popularity of the HD-2D style established by titles such as the Octopath Traveler series, Mythic Yi stands out with its meticulous frame-by-frame pixel artwork.
The team at Equalizer describes the project as being "crafted with Chinese passion," merging timeless artistry with innovative storytelling.
The narrative adapts the legendary tale of Yi Shoots Down Nine Suns, transporting players to a primeval era on the brink of destruction. Players will step into the shoes of the celestial archer Yi, equipped with the Heaven-Shaking Bow and Cloud-Piercing Arrows.
The core experience extends far beyond merely defeating mythical suns, delving into narrative threads like Chang’e’s bittersweet farewell, Jingwei’s relentless determination, and the complex plots woven by the gods.
According to Equalizer, Mythic Yi blends pixel art with authentic myth, challenging players to uncover hidden secrets and shape their own legends. Key features outlined for Mythic Yi include: - **High-definition Pixel Art**: Utilizing a sophisticated HD-2D style, the visuals evoke the grandeur and bleak beauty of ancient times, immersing players in a vivid, sprawling world.
The developers’ attention to lighting, shadow, and pixel brushwork aims to transform each moment into a living tapestry reminiscent of a hand-painted scroll. - **Strategic, Turn-Based Combat**: Mythic Yi introduces a dynamic combat system grounded in strategic depth.
Players will utilize the Five Elements cycle, react to shifting celestial phenomena, and deploy diverse archery skills.
Weapon selection, tactical skill use, and sequencing of actions are designed to offer meaningful impact on battle outcomes, making every encounter a test of both strength and strategy. - **Narrative Choices and Myth Adaptation**: Inspired by classical Chinese mythology, the game features branching storylines and decision-making that shapes the fate of both gods and mortals.
As Yi, players can recruit companions, wield legendary weapons, and face off against formidable fiendish beasts.
Iconic deities—including Fuxi, Nüwa, and Dijun—will be more than distant legends, appearing as potential allies or adversaries based on player choices, further enhancing replayability and narrative depth. - **Developer Legacy and Authentic Craftsmanship**: Equalizer highlights that Mythic Yi is a heartfelt project from seasoned industry veterans.
Their goal is to marry classic pixel RPG mechanics with rich mythological storytelling, providing a homage to both genre fans and the history of game development. Mythic Yi will launch worldwide as a digital download on the Nintendo Switch eShop in 2026.
Fans of pixel art, Chinese mythology, and deep RPG mechanics can look forward to a meticulously crafted experience that merges traditional tales with state-of-the-art graphical presentation. Stay tuned to Nintendo Insider and official channels for further updates, including gameplay trailers and additional feature reveals as the release date approaches.
This announcement brings together the nostalgia of classic turn-based RPGs with the modern beauty of HD-2D visuals, promising a unique journey through ancient Chinese myths. Drawing on the team’s extensive experience and the enduring popularity of the HD-2D style established by titles such as the Octopath Traveler series, Mythic Yi stands out with its meticulous frame-by-frame pixel artwork.
The team at Equalizer describes the project as being "crafted with Chinese passion," merging timeless artistry with innovative storytelling.
The narrative adapts the legendary tale of Yi Shoots Down Nine Suns, transporting players to a primeval era on the brink of destruction. Players will step into the shoes of the celestial archer Yi, equipped with the Heaven-Shaking Bow and Cloud-Piercing Arrows.
The core experience extends far beyond merely defeating mythical suns, delving into narrative threads like Chang’e’s bittersweet farewell, Jingwei’s relentless determination, and the complex plots woven by the gods.
According to Equalizer, Mythic Yi blends pixel art with authentic myth, challenging players to uncover hidden secrets and shape their own legends. Key features outlined for Mythic Yi include: - **High-definition Pixel Art**: Utilizing a sophisticated HD-2D style, the visuals evoke the grandeur and bleak beauty of ancient times, immersing players in a vivid, sprawling world.
The developers’ attention to lighting, shadow, and pixel brushwork aims to transform each moment into a living tapestry reminiscent of a hand-painted scroll. - **Strategic, Turn-Based Combat**: Mythic Yi introduces a dynamic combat system grounded in strategic depth.
Players will utilize the Five Elements cycle, react to shifting celestial phenomena, and deploy diverse archery skills.
Weapon selection, tactical skill use, and sequencing of actions are designed to offer meaningful impact on battle outcomes, making every encounter a test of both strength and strategy. - **Narrative Choices and Myth Adaptation**: Inspired by classical Chinese mythology, the game features branching storylines and decision-making that shapes the fate of both gods and mortals.
As Yi, players can recruit companions, wield legendary weapons, and face off against formidable fiendish beasts.
Iconic deities—including Fuxi, Nüwa, and Dijun—will be more than distant legends, appearing as potential allies or adversaries based on player choices, further enhancing replayability and narrative depth. - **Developer Legacy and Authentic Craftsmanship**: Equalizer highlights that Mythic Yi is a heartfelt project from seasoned industry veterans.
Their goal is to marry classic pixel RPG mechanics with rich mythological storytelling, providing a homage to both genre fans and the history of game development. Mythic Yi will launch worldwide as a digital download on the Nintendo Switch eShop in 2026.
Fans of pixel art, Chinese mythology, and deep RPG mechanics can look forward to a meticulously crafted experience that merges traditional tales with state-of-the-art graphical presentation. Stay tuned to Nintendo Insider and official channels for further updates, including gameplay trailers and additional feature reveals as the release date approaches.
