- Client: Original IP
- Genre: RPG
- Platform: Steam, Nintendo Switch
- Engine: Unity
- Release Date: 2017
Overview
GOKEN is GIANTY’s tribute to the golden age of Japanese action RPG – focused on fast-paced combat, charming worlds, and self-contained adventures. That’s the spirit we set out to capture with this original title, a fully in-house developed, launched in 2017 on Steam and Nintendo Switch, gaining traction among fans of the old-school RPG experience.
From the earliest concept sketches to the final line of code, we built this entirely within its global development network – showcasing the our ability to create and publish original IPs.
GOKEN’s Story
At the heart of GOKEN lies a tale of lost power, rediscovery, and redemption.
GOKEN is a hack-and-slash action-adventure RPG that pays homage to the classics. It doesn’t try to reinvent the genre. Instead, we refine its fundamentals: intuitive combat, thoughtful exploration, and a heartfelt story wrapped in anime-inspired visuals.
You play as a mysterious, blue-haired warrior who wakes up with no memories and a sealed arm – only to discover you were once a powerful hero. As your journey unfolds, you’ll revisit the five swords you once wielded, uncover the world’s secrets, and slowly piece together your past.
This straightforward premise isn’t just about nostalgia – it’s about clarity. Watch the trailer here:
Development Highlights
Combat & Gameplay
At its core, GOKEN is about real-time action. Combat is snappy and clean, with fluid weapon switching, dodge mechanics, and special abilities that keep fights engaging. Players can equip up to four weapons at once: each with distinct styles and effects, making it easy to adapt to different enemy types or build a playstyle that fits you.
Explore the full gameplay here:
- Simple Combat System: Two main attack buttons, each assignable to different weapons for unique combos.
- Weapon Progression: You start with one weapon but unlock more as you progress. Swapping between weapons during battle lets you adjust your strategy.
- Stamina System: Attacks and dodging consume stamina. A three-hit combo may trigger a special move on the third hit.
- Weapon Upgrades: All weapons can be upgraded, but materials are hard to find – encouraging exploration.
- Open World Navigation: Non-linear exploration with secrets, dungeons, and mini-quests that reward curiosity.
- Tattoo System: Leveling up grants “Ink,” which you use to create tattoos that boost stats. A customizable skill grid that lets players mix and match buffs, from health boosts to elemental resistances.
Some of the game’s most memorable moments come from its boss battles, which require more than just button-mashing. Timing, movement, and the right gear matter. Despite its accessible look, GOKEN doesn’t shy away from challenging encounters, giving fans of older action games a satisfying level of difficulty.
Let’s see how to beat all the bosses here:
Art & Character Design
GOKEN’s visual style balances vibrant anime aesthetics with chibi proportions, appealing to both younger players and fans of nostalgic JRPGs. It’s a world we want you to explore, not just for loot or quests, but for the atmosphere.
This masterpiece showcases our strength in delivering high-quality anime-style visuals through:
- 3D Characters in a 2D World: The game features fully 3D-animated characters and assets, all moving within a fixed-angle 2D-style environment. The environments create a striking contrast that emphasizes depth, making the characters stand out while maintaining a cohesive, stylized look.
- Chibi Characters: Designed for emotional expression and clarity, blending cute aesthetics with heroic proportions.
- Handcrafted Environments: Distinct areas like forests, ruins, and villages, each with unique color themes.
- Stylized Boss (Monsters) Designs: Oversized enemies with dramatic animations and fantasy flair.
- Clean UI & World Map: Menus and world maps are rendered in clean 2D art for visual clarity, stylistic consistency, and smooth performance.
Want to know more about Art in GOKEN? Read the full breakdown here
Built with Unity, Designed for Cross-Platform
From the beginning, It was developed in Unity, giving GIANTY the flexibility to target multiple platforms and streamline the toolchain across departments. The engine enabled real-time iteration, efficient asset workflows, and smoother performance optimization that is critical for action combat systems.
Once the game was successfully launched on Steam, GIANTY led the Nintendo Switch porting process, adapting the UI for handheld play, optimizing memory usage, and ensuring smooth controller support. This cross-platform deployment is a strong example of GIANTY’s technical capabilities and commitment to quality on every device.
Final Thoughts
GOKEN is more than just a game – it’s a proof point. It demonstrates that GIANTY can:
- Develop original IP from zero to launch
- Build cross-platform games with performance in mind
- Balance creative vision with production efficiency
- Deliver the full package: concept, art, gameplay, localization, and post-launch support
This project reflects GIANTY’s mission to not only support clients in co-development but also lead the creation of games that inspire players and teams alike.
Looking for a game development partner with proven expertise in Japanese aesthetics and end-to-end production? Get in touch with us.
