Tides of Annihilation is a genre-blending action game to watch

If you are enjoying the fast-paced combat of Phantom Blade Zero, you might want to keep an eye on Tides of Annihilation. As detailed in a Polygon preview, this upcoming title from the burgeoning Chinese action game scene blends character-action mechanics with 3D Metroidvania exploration and Arthurian-inspired fantasy.

Gameplay and mechanics

Set in a modern-day London devastated by a mysterious apocalyptic entity known as “the Fog,” the game follows the protagonist, Gwendolyn, as she attempts to undo the damage. Combat is fast-paced, featuring light and heavy attacks, dodges, parries, and a stagger system designed to reward stylish finishers.

A key feature of the game is the “knights” system. Inspired by the Knights of the Round Table, these companions can be equipped to alter Gwendolyn’s moveset, granting defensive bonuses, enhanced stagger power, or even time-stopping abilities. Players can unlock up to ten of these knights, which also serve as essential tools for navigating the environment. Much like the traversal mechanics in modern God of War titles, players must rely on their knight companions to clear obstacles, such as firing arrows to create ziplines or smashing through barriers to open new paths.

Development and design

The project has seen its share of pre-release discussion, particularly regarding Gwendolyn’s character design. After voice actor Jennifer English departed the project in 2025 due to health concerns, she was replaced by Angela Sant’Albano, and the character model underwent a redesign. Reporting from Polygon notes that while the design has sparked significant community debate, the in-game model avoids the uncomfortable framing often found in other genre contemporaries.

Why it matters

For players, Tides of Annihilation represents the latest entry in the rapidly expanding “outsider AAA” category—high-budget, polished action titles emerging from studios outside the traditional industry heavyweights. With a mix of soulslike intensity, character-action flair, and environmental puzzle-solving reminiscent of God of War, it is positioning itself as a major contender in the current wave of high-profile Chinese-developed action games.

While the game has garnered attention for its fluid combat and unique companion mechanics, there is currently no confirmed release date. The title is slated for release on PlayStation 5, Windows PC, and Xbox Series X, so those interested should keep an eye out for further announcements regarding a release window.