The resurgence of the metroidvania genre continues with Surgent Studios announcing the upcoming Tales of Kenzera: ZAU, a single-player action-adventure inspired by Bantu mythology. The narrative-driven game follows Zau, a grieving boy on a spiritual journey in a land brimming with ancestral spirits and challenges. Wielding cosmic powers, players will engage in rhythmic combat, manipulate time, and face emotional trials to become a spiritual healer. The founder of Surgent Studios, Abubakar Salim, used his personal experiences of loss to shape this story, infusing it with themes of resilience and hope. A demo is currently available during Steam Next Fest, with full release slated for April 23, on Steam, PlayStation, Switch, Xbox Series X/S, EA App, and Epic Games Store.

What is the release date for Tales of Kenzera: ZAU?

The release date for Tales of Kenzera: ZAU is scheduled for April 23.

Tales of Kenzera: ZAU not only promises an engaging action-adventure experience but also represents a poignant tale of coping with grief. Integrating elements from Bantu folklore, the game offers a unique narrative depth alongside its gameplay mechanics. The involvement of a BAFTA-nominated actor as the studio founder further indicates a strong storytelling aspect within the game, potentially offering gamers an enriched experience that combines cultural richness with the thrill of exploration and combat typical of metroidvania titles.