Only strategy games have tackled this setting so far, but in a few days, a new medieval open-world action game about the Mongol invasions is launching. Ertugrul of Ulukayin arrives in Early Access on Steam on June 12, following its debut on the Epic Games Store.

Turkish history and its rich mythology have rarely appeared in video games. Strategy titles like Crusader Kings III, Total War: Attila, and even Mount and Blade 2 have explored this region thanks to their historical focus and large-scale maps. But none have done so quite like Ertugrul of Ulukayin. This indie open-world action game with fantasy elements debuted in early access on the Epic Games Store in 2024, and in just two weeks, it will arrive on Steam, promising something special.

According to the developers, Ertugrul of Ulukayin puts players in the role of Ertuğrul Gazi, a 13th-century tribal leader and crucial figure in the birth of the Ottoman Empire. Set during the chaos of the Mongol invasions led by Genghis Khan, the game’s story mixes real events with supernatural twists. From exploring the outskirts of Ahlat to battling mythological beasts, the adventure unfolds in a semi-open world that encourages exploration, strategic planning, and combat.

Choices, Open World, and Mythology: What Ertugrul of Ulukayin Offers

One of the game’s standout features is the ability to control not just Ertugrul, but also Turgut and Meryem, two historical figures with unique fighting styles and backstories. This dynamic team system enriches the experience, letting each character evolve independently and offering multiple narrative perspectives as the campaign unfolds.

“Mysticism is woven into the story through dreamlike scenes inspired by Turkish mythology,” the studio adds. These visions, offering both guidance and challenges, highlight the symbolic journey of the adventure, with the Tree of Life – Ulukayin – serving as the game’s thematic core. It represents the link between the mortal world, the afterlife, and the stars, lending a spiritual depth to the main storyline.

With survival elements, tribal management and decision-making, and an authentic focus on horseback culture, Ertugrul of Ulukayin aims to be an interactive tribute to a national hero. In the West, the game’s mysticism and aesthetic could resonate strongly. If Tekden Studio finds the right balance between action, culture, and mythology, this could be a standout title in the historical video game genre.

Source: 3DJuegos