While we're all so used to playing heroes in videogames, often the most interesting stories come from the villains we face. The reason they became such sinister beings, who they were before… fascinating narrative morsels that we're not always necessarily privy to.
The Relic: First Guardian—the upcoming dark fantasy action RPG from Project Cloud Games— is going all-in on these riveting tales, though. Each foe faced isn't just a quest to check off of a list, but a series of legends retold. Their stories unfold through your grand battles with each one, and exploring the surrounding world—with many of these encounters drawing inspiration from Korean folktales.
The game's narratives unfold across the continent of Arsiltus, a once prosperous place where history is now buried all across its land; from the villages that still stand to the very darkest dungeons. You'll take on the role as the last Guardian tasked with piecing back together the relic that will save Arsiltus and usher in a new era.
Exploration and combat are both key components to The Relic: First Guardian. Collecting fragments scattered across Arsiltus allows you to unlock new skills and arms—there are five different types of weapons to choose from, each one offering their own bespoke gameplay style. The Relic: First Guardian has a little something for everyone.
Whether you prefer more methodical weapons that are slow but pack a punch, or smaller blades that allow you to get in and out of the action at a moment's notice, chipping away with quick strikes, there are multiple ways to tackle each enemy and exploit their weaknesses.
Combine these blades with magic and weapon-unique skills for a versatile arsenal, but keep an eye on your stamina. Every defense and dodge will chip away at your stamina meter, requiring careful planning and observing your opponent's every move. Get too greedy—or too hesitant—and you could quickly find yourself on the receiving end of a fatal blow.
The Relic: First Guardian boasts over 70 bosses, known as Brutals, to put these weapons to the test against. Defeating each one grants special items, enhancements, and upgrades to make your Guardian stronger. But each defeat also grants insight into the Brutal's tragic story, their tale of sorrow that would serve as the falling dominoes which led to your encounter.
Even fighting through a burning village as looters lay waste to its citizens is rich with lore. One might offer you insight into the land in his dying breath, or another might have their diary pages scattered ripe for reading. In moments both quiet and tumultuous, there's always a story to tell.
It's a thrilling blend of immersive storytelling rooted in folklore and gripping epic battles that will make The Ruin: First Guardian an action RPG to remember. The game is set to release in early 2026, and you can check out an eight-minute peep into all the things The Ruin: First Guardian has to offer right here on PC Gamer as part of our PC Gaming Show Tokyo Direct.
