Renowned Japanese video game publisher Visual Arts, famous for titles such as Kanon, Air and Clannad (created under their Key brand), has introduced their new imprint Visual Arts Scripts on April 21. After this announcement, the company revealed three upcoming games, with the initial release being Sayagatari – Promise of the Cursed Blade –, scheduled for 2026 on PC (Steam, Windows). The remaining two games, Tekkai Jousai no Haika and Honjou Rendoku to Ushinawareta Ikou (Naharasu) (official English titles to be announced) are presently in production.
Sayagatari – Promise of the Cursed Blade – presents a romantic visual novel centered around Toya, a sword enthusiast afflicted by a cursed blade that fills him with an uncontrollable desire to kill. Fortunately, Saya, a shrine maiden who previously wielded the demonic sword, possesses the ability to break the curse – through her kisses. While battling demons with the cursed sword, Saya and Toya grow closer, and the significance of these “healing” kisses gradually evolves. The narrative is crafted by emerging writer Mii Yamaya, with artwork provided by Riichu, renowned for The Vexations of a Shut-In Vampire Princess.
Tekkai Jousai no Haika, penned by author Koji Dogu with art by chibi, is set a century following a fictional “great fire” that destroyed a group of enigmatic unauthorized structures now called Tekkai Jousai (fortresses). Yuuma Kuze, an archaeologist hired to examine the site, encounters a girl named Haika amidst the wreckage. As the story unfolds, players must solve the forest’s mysteries, search for the “treasure for death” that Haika seeks, and discover the truth about Haika herself.
Honjou Rendoku to Ushinawareta Ikou (Naharasu), scripted by Shijima Shike—a scenario writer with a master’s degree in philosophy—unfolds in July of the 44th year of the Showa Era, or 1696, coinciding with Apollo’s historic moon landing. Featuring a distinctive retro illustration style by artist Yo-co, the narrative appears to delve into philosophical themes. During the space exploration fervor, the main character meets a mysterious girl in Tokyo’s historic book district, Jimbocho. Seemingly disconnected from contemporary times, the girl relentlessly searches for Wahnsinn, a rare book by Friedrich Nietzsche whose existence itself is debated.
Sayagatari – Promise of the Cursed Blade– is scheduled for launch in 2026 on PC (Steam, Windows). Tekkai Jousai no Haika and Honjou Rendoku to Ushinawareta Ikou (Naharasu) are presently being developed.