Istanbul, Turkey, March 27, 2026 | Indie developer Maypole Games has unveiled Foundlings, a pixel-art RPG about two mages seeking redemption in war-torn 12th-century England, alongside its first announcement trailer.
The game combines character-driven storytelling with intricate real-time spellcasting, set in a fractured world shaped by civil conflict and forbidden magic.
A Story of Guilt, Growth, and Humanity
Set during the Revolt of 1173 against King Henry II, Foundlings offers a grounded yet mystical take on medieval England.
Apprentice healer Agnes and ex-executioner Frant are arrested for unsanctioned magic and tasked with investigating a rogue mages’ guild behind growing unrest. Their mission quickly expands beyond its original purpose, carrying them through villages and wilderness marked by unexplained disturbances, where they uncover desperate lives, harsh truths, and the consequences of unchecked power.
Through branching dialogue, moral dilemmas, and evolving relationships, players shape each encounter and influence not only the outcome of the investigation, but also the bond between Agnes and Frant, and ultimately who they become.
“This is not a story about saving the world. It’s about surviving it, and finding meaning within it.” – Alper Yilmaz, CEO of Maypole Games.
Spellcasting Reimagined
Drawing from medieval science and philosophy, Foundlings features a spell-driven combat system that blends real-time action with tactical depth.
- Dynamic Spellcasting System: Combine conduits, scrolls, and potions to craft and execute spells in real time.
- Hybrid Combat Design: A unique blend of action and strategy inspired by classic RPGs.
- Dual Character Control: Switch between Agnes and Frant, each with evolving behaviors and abilities.
Harmony, Knowledge, and the Occult
Magic in Foundlings is shaped by knowledge, balance, and observation of the natural world:
- The Four Humors System: Balance blood, phlegm, yellow bile, and black bile to stabilize emotions and unlock power
- Celestial Influence: Align spells with planetary movements to enhance their effects
- Paths to Mastery: Study liberal arts like rhetoric and theology, and delve into alchemy and occult practices
Key Features
- A Heartfelt Tale of Hardship
- Guide two outcast mages during the Revolt of 1173. Every choice shapes life, death, and redemption.
- Real-Time Spellcasting
- Experience tactical planning with real-time spell execution using conduits, scrolls, and potions.
- From Novice to Initiate
- Study medieval disciplines, practice alchemy, acquire conduits, and craft new spells to build your personal spellbook.
- Maintain Inner and Outer Harmony
- Manage the fluctuations of the four humors to maintain balance and influence your emotions. Observe the skies and synchronize your spellcasting with planetary movements to enhance your power.
- Explore a Ravaged Medieval Land
- Journey through a war-torn 12th-century England filled with mystical forests, forgotten battlefields, and ancient burial grounds.
- A Living Narrative World
- Meet nobles, peasants, scholars, and fellow outcasts. Shape your relationships through choices, knowing that not every outcome is yours to decide.
- Lush Pixels with Light & Shadow
- 16-bit aesthetics merge with modern lighting techniques for a world rich in atmosphere and detail.
- A Captivating Soundscape
- A soundtrack blending progressive rock, ambient music, SNES-era inspiration, and Balkan and Middle Eastern influences.
About Maypole Games
Maypole Games is an independent studio based in Istanbul, dedicated to creating story-driven games that resonate with players at a deep emotional level. As a small and diverse team built on strong cross-cultural bonds, we focus on crafting meaningful interactive experiences that blend thoughtful game design with deeply personal storytelling. Foundlings, a story-driven RPG about the lives of outcast mages in 12th-century England, is Maypole's first commercial title. It is slated for release in 2026.
