Mythic Yi, a Turn-Based HD-2D RPG Announced for Nintendo Switch and PC

Chinese developer Equalizer has officially announced Mythic Yi, a pixel art turn-based RPG inspired by the HD-2D visual style popularized by titles such as Octopath Traveler. The game is currently in development for Nintendo Switch and PC via Steam, with a planned release window set for 2026. Equalizer has confirmed broad language support at launch, including English, French, German, Russian, Japanese, Korean, Traditional Chinese, and Simplified Chinese.

Positioned as a deep reinterpretation of ancient Chinese mythology, Mythic Yi aims to blend classic RPG design with modern presentation while retelling one of the most well-known legends in Chinese folklore.

A Mythological Journey Set in a Primeval World

Mythic Yi takes place in a primordial era where ten suns scorch the sky, pushing the world to the brink of collapse. Players assume the role of Yi, the legendary celestial archer tasked with restoring balance by slaying six powerful beasts and saving humanity. Armed with the Heaven-Shaking Bow and Cloud-Piercing Arrows, Yi embarks on a journey that extends far beyond the familiar myth of shooting down the suns.

The narrative expands the original legend with a more emotional and complex storyline. Characters such as Chang’e and Jingwei play key roles, while divine figures including Fuxi, Nuwa, and Dijun influence the world in unexpected ways. Equalizer describes the story as one filled with hidden conspiracies, moral choices, and personal sacrifice, encouraging players to explore the myth from multiple perspectives.

Strategic Turn-Based Combat with Mythological Elements

Combat in Mythic Yi follows a traditional turn-based structure while introducing layered strategic systems. Battles incorporate mechanics inspired by the Five Elements cycle, shifting celestial conditions, and flexible archery-based skill combinations. Player decisions surrounding skill timing, action order, and equipment selection directly affect the outcome of each encounter.

Rather than focusing solely on raw strength, the combat system emphasizes tactical judgment. Equalizer aims to make each battle feel like a strategic puzzle that rewards planning and adaptability, reinforcing the mythological themes at the core of the game.

A Tribute to Classic RPG Design

According to the developer, Mythic Yi represents a return to classic RPG craftsmanship. The project brings together industry veterans who have worked in game development since the 1990s. Drawing on decades of experience, the team seeks to combine a modern HD pixel aesthetic with time-tested gameplay principles.

With its hand-crafted pixel art, myth-driven narrative, and strategic combat systems, Mythic Yi is shaping up to be an ambitious reinterpretation of ancient legend through the lens of classic RPG design. More details, including gameplay footage and a release date, are expected to be revealed closer to launch in 2026.

If you’re interested in the game, you can check out their Steam page.