The Relic: First Guardian, an Action RPG from PC Gaming Show Tokyo Direct, Hits Steam Wishlists

09/28/2025

In a recent showcase at the PC Gaming Show Tokyo Direct, a new action role-playing game titled 'The Relic: First Guardian' emerged as a standout, swiftly ascending to the top of many gamers' Steam wishlists. This title, drawing inspiration from Asian folklore, distinguishes itself with a vast array of over 50 weapons and an innovative character progression system that bypasses traditional leveling in favor of runes, items, and crafting. Its combat mechanics, which notably omit a stamina bar, encourage aggressive playstyles while also accommodating more defensive approaches with a robust parry system. Players will confront more than 80 unique bosses, each with their own backstories, in a game slated for release in early 2026.

The Relic: First Guardian: A Deep Dive into its Mechanics and World

The gaming community recently buzzed with excitement following the reveal of 'The Relic: First Guardian' during the PC Gaming Show Tokyo Direct. This highly anticipated action RPG, which impressed after a series of more uniform soulslike titles at Gamescom's Opening Night Live, is now a prominent fixture on Steam wishlists. The game promises a rich fantasy experience rooted in Asian folklore, offering players an extensive arsenal of over 50 distinct weapons. A notable feature is its unconventional character development; instead of a standard experience point system, players will enhance their protagonist through a intricate network of runes, items, and crafting, allowing for flexible build customization. The combat is designed to be dynamic and unrestrictive, with no stamina limitations, enabling continuous offensive maneuvers. For those who prefer calculated defense, a satisfying parry mechanism is integrated. The game challenges players with a staggering roster of more than 80 unique bosses, known as Brutals, each possessing an untold narrative that players can unravel. 'The Relic: First Guardian' is scheduled for release in early 2026, offering a fresh and engaging take on the action RPG genre.

This announcement highlights a refreshing trend in game development, where cultural narratives are woven into genre staples, creating unique and immersive experiences. The emphasis on alternative progression systems and varied combat styles suggests a thoughtful approach to player engagement, moving beyond conventional mechanics. For enthusiasts of challenging action RPGs, 'The Relic: First Guardian' offers a promising new adventure that celebrates strategic depth and rich storytelling.