On January 20, 2025, Guangzhou Chinese-based indie studio JuLu Studio dropped the first gameplay trailer for Twelve Shadows (十二影), a boss-centric action title steeped in Chinese mythology. Developed by a three-person team, this marks the studio’s ambitious leap into the action genre, blending traditional cultural motifs with punishing, precision-focused combat.

Core Gameplay & Vision
Billed as a Boss Rush experience, Twelve Shadows pits players against a gauntlet of adversaries inspired by the Chinese Zodiac, framed as a clash against “inner demons” in its haunting tagline. The trailer teases meticulously designed encounters, with JuLu Studio emphasizing their commitment to refining each battle’s pacing, mechanics, and visual flair. “We’re pouring everything into crafting fights that thrill and challenge in equal measure,” the studio stated, hinting at a game that rewards mastery while respecting players’ time.

Cultural Identity & Souls-Like Vibes
While details remain under wraps, the trailer’s aesthetic drips with Chinese symbolism—think ornate armor echoing ancient dynastic designs, environments shrouded in ink-wash fog, and boss animations that evoke both mythological beasts and psychological horrors. The combat rhythm, however, feels distinctly Souls-like: deliberate dodges, stamina management, and telegraphed enemy patterns will feel familiar to fans of the genre. Yet, subtle flourishes—a gong strike punctuating a parry, UI elements styled after traditional seal scripts—hint at a fresh cultural twist.

Indie Ambitions & What’s Next
As a debut project from a tiny team, Twelve Shadows faces sky-high expectations. But JuLu Studio’s focus on quality over scale could work in its favor. No release window or platforms have been announced, but the studio promises regular updates as development progresses. For now, the trailer has already sparked intrigue among Souls-like enthusiasts and lore-driven action fans alike.