Rice Games Inc. has officially announced that Shujinkou, its acclaimed JRPG-meets-language-learning dungeon crawler, is coming digitally to the Nintendo Switch on October 2. A brand-new announcement trailer has also been released, showcasing the game’s blend of epic storytelling, Japanese voice talent, and innovative gameplay.
Fans eager to secure their copy can pre-order starting September 18, 2025, with a 10% discount available across all editions.
A JRPG That Teaches While You Play
Shujinkou stands out in the crowded JRPG landscape by offering something few games dare to attempt—integrating Japanese language learning directly into its gameplay. While battling through labyrinths, solving puzzles, and forging alliances, players are also introduced to thousands of Japanese words, kanji, phrases, and grammar elements.
For those less interested in language learning, an English-only mode ensures that Shujinkou remains a full-fledged, story-driven JRPG with rich mechanics, challenging dungeons, and a massive cast of characters.
The Two Arcs: Genya and Sabaku
The Nintendo Switch version introduces a new pricing model. The Genya Arc (the base game) will be available starting at $29.99, while the Sabaku Arc—a direct continuation of the story—will be sold separately for $24.99.
This split lowers the entry barrier for new players, making the Switch edition more accessible while still offering the same 80+ hours of content found on PC and PlayStation 5. Each arc delivers roughly 40–60 hours of gameplay, filled with dungeon crawling, side quests, and branching storylines.
Sabaku Arc Highlights
- Explore eight massive labyrinths filled with new puzzles
- Collect Kanji orbs to unleash powerful attacks
- Learn new proverbs and JLPT N4 grammar elements via signboards
- Master a brand-new Cooking system
- Embark on 100 side quests in the desert nation of Sabaku
- Unlock 40+ new illustrations highlighting pivotal story moments
Quality-of-Life Updates Since Launch
Since its original February release on PS5 and PC, Shujinkou has received hundreds of quality-of-life improvements based on player and critic feedback. These updates include streamlined dungeon navigation, balance adjustments, and bug fixes—all of which will be integrated into the Nintendo Switch version at launch.
Critical Acclaim
With a 90 Metacritic score and a 94 OpenCritic Top Critic rating, Shujinkou has earned “Universal Acclaim” from reviewers. Player feedback has also been glowing, with many praising how the game inspired them to begin Japanese language studies or rekindled their passion for learning.
Shujinkou Key Features
- Learn Japanese through immersive gameplay (optional)
- Strategic turn-based combat with evolving mechanics
- Forge weapons, cook meals, fish, and complete side quests
- Multiple mini-games, character bonding events, and lore-rich exploration
- A six-nation world packed with quests, dungeons, and secrets
- Seamless integration of learning and adventure for any playstyle
A Global Team Behind the Game
Rice Games Inc. is an international team of multilingual developers from the United States, Japan, Germany, Australia, and beyond. With Shujinkou as their debut commercial release, the studio has already built a reputation for delivering a bold, ambitious JRPG experience unlike anything else on the market.
When to Play
- Pre-Orders Begin: September 18, 2025 (10% off all editions)
- Nintendo Switch Launch: October 2, 2025 (digital only)
For more information, visit the official Rice Games website or wishlist Shujinkou now on the Nintendo eShop.
