Finnish independent game studio MiTale will showcase the expanding world of its dark fantasy transmedia IP Willow Guard at gamescom 2026. The studio will also introduce its upcoming post-apocalyptic role-playing game C.L.A.Y., which explores the use of quantum computing in game development.
“Gamescom is a perfect opportunity to meet people who are passionate about distinctive worlds, ambitious storytelling and new ways of creating games,” says Natasha Skult, Founder and CEO of MiTale. “We are looking forward to introducing Willow Guard to new audiences and showing how its world is growing beyond the original game. We are also excited to discuss C.L.A.Y., our work with quantum computing and the different ways in which we can support other studios and technology partners through co-development.”
Willow Guard expands into board games and other off-screen experiences
Released for PC in 2025, Willow Guard is a single-player dark fantasy action RPG combining isometric hack-and-slash combat, deckbuilding-inspired character progression, investigative gameplay, choice-driven interactive fiction and a distinctive cast of anthropomorphic animal characters. Its story continued in 2026 with Willow Guard: Frostreign, the game’s first major story DLC.
Willow Guard is also the foundation of a growing transmedia universe. MiTale is expanding the IP beyond video games through an upcoming board game, graphic novels, digital comics, artwork and other physical creations designed to bring its animal-fantasy world to life beyond the screen. These new extensions of the Willow Guard universe will be presented at the Indie Area during Gamescom 2026.
Upcoming C.L.A.Y. explores quantum-powered game development
MiTale will also introduce C.L.A.Y. – The Last Redemption, an upcoming story-driven role-playing game set generations after the collapse of civilization. In C.L.A.Y., quantum computing is being explored as an active part of the game itself. Quantum interference simulations are used to influence narrative dynamics, while quantum-generated randomness contributes to the procedural generation of environments and selected visual effects. MiTale has worked with IBM’s Qiskit technology and quantum simulators, with the longer-term goal of incorporating actual quantum hardware into game development as the technology becomes increasingly accessible.
Updated C.L.A.Y. website and trailer will be released just before Gamescom 2026.
From quantum computing to co-development
Beyond its own games, MiTale has built expertise in quantum computing, gamified applications and interactive visualization. The studio explores practical ways to bring quantum technologies into game development, storytelling and other interactive experiences. MiTale also provides co-development and consulting services, including game development, narrative design, art, animation, UI/UX, software development and interactive technologies.
Meet MiTale at gamescom 2026
Media representatives and potential partners can meet MiTale to discuss Willow Guard and its expansion beyond games, the development of the C.L.A.Y. universe, practical applications of quantum computing in game development, independent game production in Finland, and potential co-development partnerships.
World’s leading gaming event gamescom 2026 will be in Cologne, Germany, from 26 to 30 August. MiTale booth is located at the Indie Area in Hall 10.2, Stand F052g.
More info
MiTale Ltd, Natasha Skult, CEO & Creative Director, email: natasha@mitale.fi
https://www.mitalegames.com
MiTale – Gamescom 2026 (photos)
MiTale
MiTale is an independent Finnish game developer focused on interactive storytelling, new gaming technologies and both market-driven and experimental game experiences. Willow Guard is a single-player, story-driven dark fantasy RPG that combines challenging hack-and-slash combat, deck-building mechanics and choice-driven interactive fiction. For MiTale, Willow Guard is the foundation of a broader IP designed to live beyond the game itself, from role-playing and graphic novels to craft projects, collectibles and more. MiTale will celebrate its 10th anniversary next January. More info at www.mitalegames.com.