Inti Creates just announced Kingdom’s Return: Time-Eating Fruit and the Ancient Monster, a fresh take on the action-strategy hybrid that ActRaiser fans have craved for decades. Players restore the fallen kingdom of Almacia alongside the Fairy of Time, Chronos, blending side-scrolling combat with city-building progression. The reveal trailer showcases pixel-perfect 2D action feeding directly into strategic kingdom upgrades, launching April 23, 2026 on PS5, Xbox Series X|S, Switch, Switch 2, and PC via Steam.
Adventure Meets Kingdom Building
Gameplay splits neatly between high-octane 2D action stages and thoughtful strategy sessions. Explore side-scrolling levels as one of four heroes, gathering materials from enemies and environments. Return to your hub to place buildings that boost stats – barracks for attack power, academies for magic, forges for defense. Smarter layouts unlock tougher stages and bigger rewards in a satisfying loop.
No rigid paths dictate progress. Balance action grinding with construction or specialize in one for unique clears. The mystery of Almacia’s fall unfolds through Chronos’ guidance, tying combat triumphs to narrative beats. Bosses scale with your kingdom’s strength, turning early struggles into dominating routs.
Four Heroes, Four Playstyles
| Character | Style | Key Traits |
|---|---|---|
| Imperial | Close-Range Tank | High defense, shield guard, sword combos, counter attacks |
| Alchemist | Status Debuff | Elemental potions, status effects, weak direct damage |
| Wizard | Long-Range Magic | Charge spells, SP management, fragile positioning |
| Zipangu | Agile Fighter | Fast movement, precise strikes, evasion focus |
Each hero shines in specific scenarios. Imperial soaks hits during material runs, Alchemist softens boss patterns, Wizard clears enemy waves safely, and Zipangu zips through platforming challenges. Swap freely between stages for optimal clears.
Inti Creates’ Proven Formula
Best known for Mega Man Zero, Azure Striker Gunvolt, and Blaster Master Zero, Inti Creates masters tight 2D action. Kingdom’s Return expands their toolkit into strategy without bloating controls. The $14.99 price hits budget-friendly sweet spot across platforms, including day-one Switch 2 support.
- Action Stages: Collect materials, fight enemies, platform precisely
- Strategy Hub: Build freely, stat buffs unlock new potential
- Progression Loop: Stronger kingdom equals deadlier heroes
- World Lore: Swords, magic, fairies in time-manipulated realms
- Visual Style: Crisp pixel art evokes SNES/Genesis glory
Trailer music swells from serene rebuilds to boss-rush intensity, capturing the hybrid thrill perfectly.
ActRaiser Spiritual Successor?
Fans immediately clocked ActRaiser vibes – godly action overlooking mortal construction. Inti Creates leans into the comparison without copying, adding character choice and deeper combat. Time-eating fruit and ancient monsters hint at wild lore twists beyond kingdom revival.
April 2026 slots nicely post-Switch 2 launch, giving players fresh reasons to build. Inti’s track record promises polish; expect demos or betas closer to release.
Frequently Asked Questions
Release date for Kingdom’s Return?
April 23, 2026 on PS5, Xbox Series X|S, Switch, Switch 2, and Steam.
What platforms get day one?
All major current-gen consoles plus PC. Switch 2 confirmed.
Price point?
$14.99 across platforms – budget-friendly Inti Creates style.
Single player only?
Yes, solo adventure with deep progression systems.
ActRaiser-like?
Strong spiritual vibes – action feeds strategy in kingdom revival loop.
Who are the characters?
Imperial (tank), Alchemist (debuffer), Wizard (caster), Zipangu (agile).
Story hook?
Revive Almacia with Fairy of Time Chronos against time-eating threats.
Kingdoms Reborn
Inti Creates delivers exactly what retro fans crave: pure 2D action married to smart strategy. Kingdom’s Return captures that ActRaiser magic while carving its own path through hero variety and freeform building. Four unique playstyles ensure replayability long after credits roll.
Mark April 23, 2026. This could redefine indie hybrids. Wishlist now – your fallen kingdom needs rebuilding.