Tides of Annihilation Arthurian Knights Concept is Tencent's Appeal to Westerners

In a recent interview with Wccftech, Eclipse Glow Games, the developers behind Tides of Annihilation, revealed the intriguing reasoning behind their choice of Arthurian myths and a London setting. Let's delve into the game's concept and future plans.

Tides of Annihilation: A Western-Focused Adventure

Arthurian Myths and Knights: The Core Concept

At Gamescom 2024, Eclipse Glow Games discussed Tides of Annihilation's design, mechanics, and potential anthology status with Wccftech. The decision to set the game in a Western context, despite being a Chinese developer, stemmed from Tencent's strategic vision. Tencent, the game's financial backer, envisioned distinct market targets for their investments. While Black Myth: Wukong focused on the Chinese market, Tides of Annihilation was specifically aimed at a Western audience, leading to the adoption of Arthurian legends as a central theme. The producer's initial concept of knights evolved into the iconic King Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table.

The game unfolds in a post-apocalyptic, modern-day London, devastated by an Outworld invasion. Gwendolyn, the sole human survivor, embarks on a journey through this ravaged city, blending modern-day elements with fantasy inspired by Arthurian myths.

Devil May Cry-Inspired Combat and a Roster of Bosses

The gameplay immediately evokes the classic Devil May Cry series, a comparison the developers readily acknowledge. They describe the combat as "definitely more like Devil May Cry," but with adjustable difficulty settings to broaden accessibility. Simplified controls cater to a wider range of players, while customizable playstyles, four distinct weapons, and over ten recruitable Knights offer strategic depth. Gwendolyn's ability to command the Knights of the Round Table adds a unique layer to the gameplay as she navigates ruined London. With over 30 bosses boasting unique abilities, players can expect challenging and rewarding encounters.

An Anthology in the Making?

Eclipse Glow Games expressed interest in expanding the franchise into an anthology, featuring diverse settings, mythologies, and protagonists. The core concept of the Outworld invasion is intended to serve as a unifying element across future titles. The success of Tides of Annihilation will be crucial in determining the future of this ambitious project.

Currently in beta, Tides of Annihilation is slated for a tentative 2026 release on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S. Players will follow Gwendolyn as she confronts destiny and strives to save both London and the intertwined fantasy realm of Avalon.