The Apothecary Diaries is getting its first-ever console game adaptation. KOEI TECMO Europe and developer Gust, in collaboration with TOHO Co., Ltd., have announced The Apothecary Diaries: The False Imperial Brother, an original mystery adventure set to launch in early 2027 for Nintendo Switch 2, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, and PC
Rather than retelling the anime, the game features a brand-new story created with concepts from original series author Hyuganatsu. Players step into the shoes of Maomao as she investigates a new conspiracy unfolding across the imperial court. The game will feature Japanese voice acting with English text.
In The Apothecary Diaries: The False Imperial Brother, Maomao returns to her role as an apothecary in the rear palace and begins investigating two connected mysteries known as the Five Mysteries and the Five Curses. Strange incidents spread through the rear palace, the pleasure district, and the capital, eventually leading her to a masked man who calls himself the “imperial younger brother.” As rumours grow, Maomao uncovers a case that could shake the imperial court itself.
Familiar characters including Jinshi return alongside new faces such as Guanyu, a travelling actor who has become increasingly popular in the capital. Together, they help piece together the truth behind the mysterious events.
The investigation is split into several gameplay phases. Players will search crime scenes, explore the city and the rear palace, question witnesses, and collect evidence. Maomao can also gather medicinal ingredients while travelling outside the city, allowing her to craft medicines that can either support the investigation or help those around her.
Once enough clues have been collected, players move into the deduction phase, where Maomao reviews the evidence, reconstructs events, and presents her conclusions. Solving each case requires more than selecting the right answer. Players must present the correct evidence from Maomao’s notebook and combine information logically to counter opposing arguments. Gathering more clues opens up additional possibilities during these confrontations.
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