Arc System Works, a renowned developer recognized for its contributions to the beat 'em up and fighting game genres, has officially announced the next chapter in its celebrated River City franchise.
Titled 'River City Saga: Journey to the West,' this upcoming game is set to debut exclusively on the Nintendo Switch in 2026.
The announcement was made during the prestigious Taipei Game Show 2026 held in Taiwan, spanning from January 29 through February 1. Continuing the legacy of the Kunio-kun series, River City Saga: Journey to the West draws direct inspiration from the legendary Chinese myth 'Journey to the West.' In this latest installment, players will encounter popular characters Sun Wukong, Zhu Bajie, Sha Wujing, and Sanzang, all presented with the franchise’s signature Kunio-style comedic flair.
The game's premise centers around these iconic figures as they embark on an epic quest to retrieve sacred Buddhist scriptures from India, mirroring the classic myth’s storyline, yet delivered with the high-energy, humorous twist fans expect from the River City series. During the Taipei Game Show, attendees had the opportunity to witness early gameplay footage at Arc System Works’ booth, offering a glimpse into the action and visual style reminiscent of the previous entry, River City Saga: Three Kingdoms.
Building on its predecessor’s success, the new title maintains the franchise’s unique blend of fast-paced action, cooperative play, and lighthearted narrative, all within a setting reimagined through a comedic lens. According to Arc System Works’ official statement, the game unfolds in the tumultuous Tang dynasty era, where monsters roam unchecked and hope fades among the populace.
In this dire context, Sakyamuni initiates the fabled journey to fetch the scriptures, appointing Sanzang and his eclectic group of disciples—including the spirited Sun Wukong, the jovial Zhu Bajie, and the diligent Sha Wujing—as the champions tasked with restoring peace and enlightenment to the land.
The group's adventure westward covers an astonishing distance of 108,000 miles, presenting both comic and action-packed encounters along their trek. River City Saga: Journey to the West represents Arc System Works’ continued commitment to refreshing its classic series, introducing new cultural themes and settings while preserving the core gameplay that has entertained generations of players.
With the Nintendo Switch’s robust platform features and thriving eShop presence, the upcoming title is poised to reach a dedicated audience of both veteran fans and newcomers alike. Stay tuned to future Nintendo Directs and official eShop listings for updates on River City Saga: Journey to the West’s specific release date and additional gameplay details as its 2026 launch approaches.
Titled 'River City Saga: Journey to the West,' this upcoming game is set to debut exclusively on the Nintendo Switch in 2026.
The announcement was made during the prestigious Taipei Game Show 2026 held in Taiwan, spanning from January 29 through February 1. Continuing the legacy of the Kunio-kun series, River City Saga: Journey to the West draws direct inspiration from the legendary Chinese myth 'Journey to the West.' In this latest installment, players will encounter popular characters Sun Wukong, Zhu Bajie, Sha Wujing, and Sanzang, all presented with the franchise’s signature Kunio-style comedic flair.
The game's premise centers around these iconic figures as they embark on an epic quest to retrieve sacred Buddhist scriptures from India, mirroring the classic myth’s storyline, yet delivered with the high-energy, humorous twist fans expect from the River City series. During the Taipei Game Show, attendees had the opportunity to witness early gameplay footage at Arc System Works’ booth, offering a glimpse into the action and visual style reminiscent of the previous entry, River City Saga: Three Kingdoms.
Building on its predecessor’s success, the new title maintains the franchise’s unique blend of fast-paced action, cooperative play, and lighthearted narrative, all within a setting reimagined through a comedic lens. According to Arc System Works’ official statement, the game unfolds in the tumultuous Tang dynasty era, where monsters roam unchecked and hope fades among the populace.
In this dire context, Sakyamuni initiates the fabled journey to fetch the scriptures, appointing Sanzang and his eclectic group of disciples—including the spirited Sun Wukong, the jovial Zhu Bajie, and the diligent Sha Wujing—as the champions tasked with restoring peace and enlightenment to the land.
The group's adventure westward covers an astonishing distance of 108,000 miles, presenting both comic and action-packed encounters along their trek. River City Saga: Journey to the West represents Arc System Works’ continued commitment to refreshing its classic series, introducing new cultural themes and settings while preserving the core gameplay that has entertained generations of players.
With the Nintendo Switch’s robust platform features and thriving eShop presence, the upcoming title is poised to reach a dedicated audience of both veteran fans and newcomers alike. Stay tuned to future Nintendo Directs and official eShop listings for updates on River City Saga: Journey to the West’s specific release date and additional gameplay details as its 2026 launch approaches.
