The wave of Korean action games shows no sign of slowing. The Relic First Guardian is a dark-fantasy Soulslike rooted in Korean mythology, and it wants to stand apart with a couple of bold ideas. It launches on PC and PlayStation 5 on July 31, 2026, with other platforms to follow. So if you have enjoyed the recent run of Korean-made action hits, this belongs on your radar.
The Relic First Guardian sends you into a fallen Korean world
The Relic First Guardian is an action RPG with Soulslike combat from South Korean studio Project Cloud Games, and Perp Games publishes it. You play the last Guardian of Arsilthus, a fallen civilization left in ruins after its great relic shattered. Your task is to gather scattered relics, each one holding the emotions and memories of those who came before, and then use them to seal the void. It arrives July 31, 2026 on PC and PS5, and Xbox and Switch 2 versions will follow later. So wishlists are already open on Steam now.
Stamina-free attacks and relic-based growth
Two systems give the game its identity. First, attacks cost no stamina, because that resource stays reserved for dodging and defense, which nudges you toward aggressive, flowing offense instead of cautious poking. Second, there is no traditional leveling. Instead, you grow by collecting relics that grant passive effects, so they reshape your skills and pace rather than raise a number. Press coverage also points to five weapon types, dozens of skill options, and unique loot, where each weapon and armor piece exists only once in the world with its own backstory.
The setting then trades the usual European gothic for a grim Korean-mythology aesthetic. So expect ruined kingdoms, void-corrupted foes, and mythic bosses, with hands-on reports citing as many as 70 of them drawn from folklore. Between stamina-free attacking and relic-based growth, The Relic First Guardian clearly tries to twist the Soulslike formula rather than copy it. With an established publisher and a firm date, it has a real shot at standing out. For another tough, atmospheric challenge, read our preview of Mistfall Hunter.
Frequently asked questions
When does The Relic: First Guardian release? July 31, 2026 on PC and PS5, and Xbox and Switch 2 versions arrive later in 2026.
Is The Relic: First Guardian a Soulslike? Yes, it is an action RPG with Soulslike combat and a Korean-mythology setting.
What makes its combat different? Attacks use no stamina, and you grow by collecting relics instead of leveling up.
Is there a physical edition? Reports point to a PS5 physical edition on September 4, 2026, including a premium collector’s version.
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