Finnish independent game studio MiTale will showcase the expanding dark fantasy universe of Willow Guard at gamescom 2026, while also revealing new details about its upcoming post-apocalyptic role playing game C.L.A.Y., which explores the use of quantum computing in game development. The studio's participation will also highlight its efforts to expand its intellectual properties beyond video games and explore new applications of technology in interactive experiences.

"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." Her statement highlights the studio's intention to use the event to reach new audiences while presenting its work in co-development and emerging technologies.

Released for PC in 2025, Willow Guard combines isometric hack-and-slash combat, deckbuilding inspired character progression, investigation, choice driven interactive fiction and a cast of anthropomorphic animal characters. The story received its first major expansion in 2026 with Willow Guard: Frostreign, further expanding the universe introduced in the original game.

The expansion of the intellectual property will also extend into other formats, with a board game, graphic novels, digital comics, artwork and other physical creations planned by MiTale. Part of this material will be presented in the Indie Area during gamescom 2026, demonstrating how the studio intends to develop an animal fantasy universe capable of existing beyond the digital experience.

C.L.A.Y. – The Last Redemption will be presented as a story driven role playing game set generations after the collapse of civilization. The project uses quantum computing as an active part of its systems, with quantum interference simulations applied to narrative dynamics, while quantum generated randomness contributes to the procedural creation of environments and selected visual effects.

MiTale is already working with IBM's Qiskit technology and quantum simulators while exploring the incorporation of real quantum hardware into game development as the technology becomes more accessible. An updated website and trailer for C.L.A.Y. – The Last Redemption will be released shortly before gamescom 2026.

The studio's activities also extend beyond its own intellectual properties, with expertise in quantum computing, gamified applications and interactive visualization. MiTale offers co-development and consulting services covering game development, narrative design, art, animation, UI/UX, software development and interactive technologies, applying these capabilities to games and other digital experiences.