Swords of Legends Goes Soulslike, and So Far, So Good | IGN Preview

In 2026, the soulslike subgenre continues to expand, with new contenders vying for the title of the next great hit. To stand out, a game must possess captivating hook and robust combat fundamentals. Aurogon Shanghai's upcoming game, Swords of Legends, aims to deliver on both fronts by reinvigorating the popular Chinese RPG series into a more dynamic, action-packed adventure.

During a preview at Summer Game Fest 2026, reporters had the opportunity to spend an hour testing the game's fast-paced fighting systems and awe-inspiring boss encounters, which take place within a Chinese mythological setting. As a new entry in the series, Swords of Legends brings the wuxia-inspired martial arts spectacle to life as an action-RPG, allowing players to embody Sipan, a fallen swordsman tasked with fending off demons and rivals across the mortal realm.

The game utilizes a familiar soulslike structure, but its combat mechanics offer a fresh take on the genre, focusing on the art of evading strikes, parrying enemies, and delivering stylish combos that embody the martial arts fable genre. Swords of Legends showcases impressive boss battles, such as the Tri-Tail boss, which morphs from a harmless cat into a powerful, ripped feline that can prove quite challenging.

The developers emphasize the importance of mastering the game's combat fundamentals, acknowledging that while the soulslike structure is well-established, Swords of Legends truly shines in the execution of its martial arts-inspired combat system. Players will appreciate the game's blend of grace and fierceness, as well as the thrilling dance-like flow of the battles, which emphasizes a sense of finesse and strategy over pure aggression.

Although the demo experienced some technical issues, the developers' commitment to refining the gameplay should ensure a polished and engaging experience upon release. Swords of Legends sets itself apart from other soulslikes through its diverse array of weapons and skills, including unique artifacts that grant Sipan special abilities such as group damage and defense boosts.

This arsenal offers a variety of strategies for tackling enemies and overcoming challenging boss encounters, which adds depth to the gameplay and keeps players engaged. Overall, Swords of Legends offers a satisfying and immersive experience that draws upon the best elements of the soulslike genre while introducing its own unique twists, making it a promising addition to the ever-evolving landscape of action-RPGs.