Devolver Digital has announced a May 2022 launch date for Trek to Yomi; in so doing, the publisher also unleashed 15 minutes of gameplay that showcase the violent samurai action that awaits players. Created by Shadow Warrior developer Flying Wild Hog, Trek to Yomi offers a side-scrolling adventure centered around Shinto mythology and Japanese history. Creative Director Leonard Menchiari recently noted in a PlayStation Blog post that the project owes its roots to Kurosawa films, though other classic Japanese movies sit at the nexus of Trek to Yomi's cinematic design, as well.
Flying Wild Hog and Devolver announced the game last summer, alongside a trailer that immediately drew comparisons to Sucker Punch Studios' acclaimed Ghost of Tsushima. The black-and-white 2D visuals should help set Trek to Yomi apart from anything else on the market, though. An emphasis on mythic storytelling will also ensure the Flying Wild Hog experience boasts an identity all its own. And, fortunately, the wait for its release is drawing to a close.
Today, April 5, Devolver Digital unveiled another new look at Trek to Yomi's brutal gameplay in an extended preview that runs roughly 15 minutes in length. In addition to showcasing more of the title's samurai action, the latest showcase also confirmed a release date for Trek to Yomi. The black-and-white adventure hits PC via Steam, PS4, PS5, Xbox Game Pass, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S on May 5. Pre-orders are already live on the PlayStation and Xbox digital storefronts, with a 10 percent discount that brings the price down from $19.99 to $17.99 for a limited time. According to the PlayStation Store listing, this discount will remain active for PS Plus users until the morning of May 5. Watch the extended Trek to Yomi gameplay video below:
As seen in the above footage, Trek to Yomi's intense action will keep players on their toes throughout the experience. It's clear the emphasis on a Kurosawa-inspired cinematic presentation goes beyond the use of black and white visuals and film grain, too. The sound design, quick cuts, and more all harken back to classic Japanese cinema. Thus, it'll be interesting to see how well the project comes together in the end.
Trek to Yumi will place players in the role of Hiroki, a young swordsman whose vow to a dying Master binds him to his hometown. With the town under his protection, Hiroki must ward off all incoming threats as a lone samurai. Interestingly, Hiroki's failure will set the seeds for a tale of good versus evil.
Trek to Yomi hits PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S on May 5.