- Primary Subject: The Apothecary Diaries: The False Imperial Brother (Nintendo Direct Reveal / Early 2027)
- Key Update: An opinion feature praising Koei Tecmo for giving The Apothecary Diaries: The False Imperial Brother a completely original storyline rather than making players replay past anime plotlines.
- Status: Confirmed
- Last Verified: September 11, 2026
- Quick Answer: Releasing in early 2027 on Switch 2, Switch, PS5, and PC, The Apothecary Diaries: The False Imperial Brother is an investigative mystery game featuring a new original story.
I have to admit, I had heard rumors that we were getting an Apothecary Diaries video game, but I was still pleasantly surprised when I saw it announced during the most recent Nintendo Direct.
The Apothecary Diaries: The False Imperial Brother is an investigative mystery adventure that will require Maomao to explore the rear palace and capital to gather evidence, craft medicine, question witnesses, and more.
It sounds fun, but the best part about it is the fact that the plot isn't one we've seen before. Games based on shows and anime so often fall into the habit of retelling the story in game format, but I'm so relieved that we're not getting that with The Apothecary Diaries.
I'm Glad Long-Time Apothecary Diaries Fans Will Get a New Story With The False Imperial Brother
When I heard The Apothecary Diaries was getting a video game, my immediate assumption was that I would be forced to replay the story arcs I've already watched (multiple times, mind you). So when I saw we were getting a totally new storyline, I couldn't help but let out a sigh of relief. We wouldn't have to act as Maomao solving the same rear palace poisonings we already knew the answers to - instead, we're solving a whole new mystery.
In this game, Maomao meets a masked man who calls himself the "imperial younger brother." That encounter leads to an investigation that could "destroy the imperial court." It's a unique narrative, which means we're going in blind - and thank god for that.
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I'm glad I won't be playing as Maomao and clicking through options towards a conclusion I already know. I get to exercise her analytical mindset alongside Maomao, inspecting ingredients and deducing the plot while uncovering fresh palace secrets. God, the thought thrills me.
As someone who has rewatched every single episode while waiting for Season 3, this game feels like the perfect way to pass the time. It's the perfect piece to immerse ourselves in the world of the inner court (and the budding romance of Maomao and Jinshi) while Season 3 is in the works. I'm glad I won't have to rewatch the show again just to get my dose of The Apothecary Diaries. Finally, I get some new stories about the universe I love so much.
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To the creators of The Apothecary Diaries: The False Imperial Brother, thank you for respecting the time of your fans. This is a great way to expand Maomao's universe, and I can't wait to dive in.
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