Chinese indie developer Wangxushe has shared a new gameplay look at Huang Tian: Against Heaven, a top-down action RPG that blends Xianxia cultivation with roguelike elements in what’s shaping up to be a genre-bending adventure.
In the game, you’ll be able to customize weapons, skills, and spells while creating increasingly powerful builds through chained magical attacks. Alchemy, heavenly tribulations, and cultivation-based character growth will also form part of the progression system, with certain upgrades carrying between runs — a nod to the roguelike tradition of persistent progress.
A World in Collapse
The adventure will take you through different timelines as you investigate the collapse of a world ruled by Huang Tian. Earlier Chinese material describes a setting in which the traditional order of heaven fell 40,000 years ago, leaving rival factions to compete for its remaining power. It’s a rich, mythological backdrop that sets the stage for a story of cosmic consequence.
Combat and Progression
The development team published its first combat footage in January 2025, showing weapon crafting, magical treasures, and a clash mechanic built around carefully timed attacks and defensive counters. They have since clarified that the project is primarily an action RPG, with randomized roguelike systems supporting its combat and character-building mechanics.
Recent reports also indicate that most core systems have been tested, and development is now shifting towards producing additional content.
What’s Next
A release date has not been announced. The game is currently associated with PC, although detailed distribution plans remain unconfirmed.
Final Word
Huang Tian: Against Heaven is one to watch. The combination of Xianxia cultivation lore and roguelike replayability is a match made in indie heaven — and if the combat footage is anything to go by, Wangxushe might just be onto something special.
We’ll keep an eye on this one as more details emerge.
