Japanese developer Citales Games has announced that its upcoming single-player action title Witch the Showdown will enter Early Access on Steam in the second half of 2026. Additionally, the game’s already available demo has been updated with a new playable character and extra content. The full launch is slated for 2027 for PC, PS5 and Xbox Series X❘S.
Witch the Showdown is a high-speed parry-action game fused with strategic deckbuilding mechanics. Set in a near-future world where magic and machines coexist, players fight their way through a martial arts tournament in pursuit of the championship title. You’ll enter the tournament as one of several fighters known as a “Witches,” with practically every opponent you face being a boss-level enemy.
Combat revolves around parrying enemy attacks to build up mana, which can then be consumed to activate cards. Cards come in a variety of attributes and effects. In addition to straightforward attack and healing cards, some deal bonus damage when certain conditions are met, while others provide buffs and various special effects. You can also trigger burst effects, allowing you to launch one-sided offensive barrages.
Between battles, players enter a board game-reminiscent deckbuilding phase. This is where you can strengthen your Witch through events with fellow tournament participants, purchase cards and accessories from shops, and customize your deck.
Witch the Showdown also comes with five difficulty levels and features a Duel Mode (for quick battles with pre-built decks) and a roguelike Tournament Mode (where you fight consecutive battles and build up your specs with what you’re dealt after each session).
Coinciding with Steam Next Fest, the developers have updated Witch the Showdown’s demo with the new playable character Neon, who will be available for a limited time. Interestingly, the demo now also includes a brand-new turn-based mode that lowers the game’s tempo and allows for more strategic play. Compared to the demo, the game’s upcoming Early Access launch will include more fighters, more of the story, and new cards to try out.
Witch the Showdown is set to launch in 2027 for PC, PS5 and Xbox Series X❘S.
