What stands out in this announcement is that it gives fans of The Apothecary Diaries something the anime cannot: the chance to investigate with their own hands. KOEI TECMO and studio Gust, in collaboration with TOHO, confirmed that The Apothecary Diaries: The False Imperial Brother launches on March 18, 2027 for Nintendo Switch 2, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5 and PC (Steam), and pre-orders are open.
A new story with Maomao at its center
It is the franchise’s first console adaptation, with an exclusive story. Maomao tries to unravel the secrets of the Five Mysteries and solve the Five Curses, meeting the familiar cast and new characters conceived by series author Hyuganatsu: Yanxi, a high-ranking official in the rear palace’s Bureau of Court Etiquette known for her accurate fortune-telling; Guanyu, a travelling actor; and Chenhan, a regular at the Verdigris House targeted by baseless accusations.
A lovely design detail: besides Maomao, you can sometimes control Jinshi and even Maomao (Cat). As Jinshi, his position in the rear palace gets statements from people who would not talk to the apothecary; the cat version reaches high places, eavesdrops and retrieves evidence. You can also play as the Quack Doctor and Luomen while concocting medicines, which affects the difficulty of the mini-games.
Quests, bonuses and editions
Fulfilling requests and delivering items such as medicine raises characters’ trust and unlocks side stories. Completion Stamps in each chapter unlock special illustrations. Anyone who buys before March 31, 2027 gets the “Apothecary’s Starter Kit and Modest Accessory Pack”, and digital pre-orders by March 17 include the “Apothecary’s Tasteful Accessory Pack”. The Digital Deluxe Edition adds Formal and Fantasy costume packs and a Fashion accessory pack for Maomao (Cat).
The Steam page does not show a price yet, and its listed languages are English, Japanese and Chinese. Until March, the anime and manga are there to keep fans busy.
Where to buy
See also our monthly game release calendar.
Source: KOEI TECMO.
Max Xavier