Game Freak unveils action RPG Beast of Reincarnation gameplay set in post-apocalyptic Japan

Game Freak has revealed extended gameplay for its upcoming action RPG Beast of Reincarnation, offering the first detailed look at a project that marks a clear shift from the studio’s previous work. The footage was shown during the latest Xbox Developer Direct.

Beast of Reincarnation is a one-person, one-dog action RPG set in a post-apocalyptic Japan.

The story follows Emma, an exiled young woman with supernatural abilities, and her companion Koo, a wolf-like dog. Together, they attempt to stop a parasitic plant referred to as “the blight”, which is spreading across the world.

During the presentation, General Producer Shigeru Ohmori outlined the studio’s approach, describing the title as its darkest and most action-driven project so far.

The gameplay demonstration highlighted fast-paced combat built around precise dodging, heavy melee attacks and large-scale enemy encounters.

The world of Beast of Reincarnation is shown as a land caught in an ongoing cycle of destruction and rebirth. Environments are overgrown and desolate, while enemies are depicted as distorted creatures fused with plant life.

According to the presentation, this setting forms the foundation for the game’s dark fantasy tone.

Beyond combat, the footage revealed several RPG systems, including character progression, a range of weapons and challenging boss battles that rely on timing and pattern recognition.

A central gameplay mechanic focuses on the connection between Emma and Koo, who share the same Blight Power.

Each character has an individual skill tree, but their abilities are designed to work together through techniques called Blooming Arts. 

Game Freak, which is best known for its work on the Pokémon series, is presenting Beast of Reincarnation as a deliberate departure in both theme and structure.

The studio confirmed that the game is scheduled to launch in summer 2026 on PC, PlayStation and Xbox, with availability on Game Pass from day one.