Koei Tecmo has dropped a brand-new gameplay trailer for The Apothecary Diaries: The False Imperial Brother, and it comes with the news fans have been waiting for — the game launches on March 18 for Nintendo Switch 2, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, and PC via Steam.
Maomao (Credits: Hyuganatsu, Touko Shino)
What Is The False Imperial Brother About?
The trailer previews mysteries, concoctions, and investigations as players step into the shoes of Maomao, the sharp-tongued apothecary whose knowledge of poisons and medicine makes her the empire’s most unlikely detective. The story centers on two chains of strange phenomena and conspiracies causing chaos throughout the rear palace, the red-light district, and the streets of the capital.
Maomao must use every ounce of her intelligence to solve the mysteries and unveil the truth behind the False Imperial Brother — a shadowy figure whose schemes threaten to tear the imperial court apart. In-game, players will explore, compound ingredients, and investigate crime scenes in what looks like a faithful translation of the series’ beloved mystery-solving formula.
Deluxe Edition and Platforms
A Digital Deluxe Edition will include costume packs, giving players a reason to go beyond the standard version. The multi-platform launch — spanning Switch 2, Switch, PS5, and Steam — means nearly everyone can join Maomao’s investigation when the game drops this March.
The Apothecary Diaries Franchise Keeps Growing
The game arrives at a peak moment for the franchise. Season 3 of the TV anime premiered on October 2 in NTV’s “Friday Anime Night” block, with its second cours set for April 2027, and an anime film — The Apothecary Diaries: The Deceased Empress’ Treasure — opens in Japanese theaters on December 11 with a brand-new story by author Hyuganatsu. An Amazon Prime Video live-action series is also slated for worldwide streaming in 2028.
March 18 can’t come soon enough for Maomao fans.
Also Read: The Apothecary Diaries Film Drops New Video, Adds Miyuki Sawashiro and Ai Mikami, Crunchyroll Launches English Dub for The Apothecary Diaries Season 3 This Friday
Source: Anime News Network — read the full story there.