TamagawaSoft’s upcoming 2D platformer isekizima: Ruins and Tails Journey will bring a little Japanese folklore to Steam on January 19, 2027. Starring Kijino, a nekomata (a supernatural cat spirit with two tails), the game takes players across an island filled with overgrown ruins, mysterious caves, and a variety of fantastical creatures.
The adventure spans more than 30 stages, with players exploring woodland paths and ancient underground locations as they uncover the island’s secrets. A soundtrack featuring over 40 folk-inspired compositions accompanies the journey, with music designed to complement the scenery and atmosphere of each area.
Kijino isn’t simply wandering through the ruins, however. Skeleton pirates, slimy monsters, and ghostly enemies stand between the protagonist and the island’s hidden treasures. Combat revolves around punches and kicks that can be chained together into combos, producing claw-like effects with each attack. Landing hits also builds up the flames surrounding Kijino’s two tails, eventually allowing players to unleash a powerful special attack capable of hitting multiple enemies.
Exploration introduces considerably more variety than simply running and jumping between platforms. Players will be able to dash past obstacles, swing across gaps using a grappling wire, ride minecarts through underground passages, and even take control of a golem. The developers are also emphasizing accessible controls and generous checkpoints, allowing players to retry sections immediately after making a mistake.
There will be plenty to discover beyond the main adventure, too. Players can meet new characters, follow the story through expressive interactions and illustrated sequences, uncover hidden treasures, and collect different outfits for Kijino. Those looking for something more demanding can also experiment with three optional challenge settings, including tougher enemy attacks and a restriction that prevents maximum HP from increasing beyond its starting value.
isekizima: Ruins and Tails Journey will feature 47 Steam achievements, with some encouraging alternative approaches to completing stages. One example challenges players to reach the goal without defeating any enemies, offering another reason to revisit sections and experiment with different playstyles.
A free Steam demo is already available, offering approximately one to two hours of gameplay ahead of the full release. The game is currently planned to launch on Windows PC through Steam on January 19, 2027, with a planned price of US$17.99, JPY 2,250, or CNY 69. A Nintendo Switch version is also in development, although its release date has yet to be announced.
Alongside the main game, TamagawaSoft will release the isekizima: Supporter Pack – Soundtrack + Artbook on January 19, 2027. This additional package includes the complete 43-track original soundtrack in MP3 format, a digital artbook containing 184 images, and an exclusive bonus outfit.
The artbook will feature concept artwork, character designs, early sketches, guest illustrations, story artwork, and additional material from the game’s development. For players interested in the creative work behind Kijino’s adventure, the additional collection offers a closer look at the world and characters beyond what appears in the game itself.