Insights & Stories
The dev journey: design choices, cultural research, worldbuilding, and behind-the-scenes stories.
The Gameplay Trailer Is Out Now
Nine months after the Future Games Show teaser, the first real gameplay trailer for Son of Thanjai is here. Meet Vinnendhira Chola, the Surul Vaal combat system, and the living world of 11th-century Thanjai.
Our Story Found Its Writer
Acclaimed writer Madhan Karky joins Son of Thanjai as narrative writer, crafting the game's story, dialogue, and world in both Tamil and English: a defining moment for Indian gaming.
Culture Isn't a Gimmick
After crossing 2M+ views on the announcement teaser, we respond to the extremes (those who dismiss the game's culture and those who support it blindly) and explain why culture in Son of Thanjai is game design, not decoration.
Introducing Son of Thanjai
We unveiled Son of Thanjai — a cinematic action-adventure set in 11th-century Southern India, during the Chola dynasty. Mark your calendars: the announcement teaser drops at the Future Games Show on August 20, 2025.
Legacy, Identity, and a New Name
"Son of Thanjai" is our love letter to Tamil culture, to Thanjavur's enduring influence, and to the countless untold stories of its people — and why we renamed the game from Unsung Empires.
The Official Poster Is Here!
Our official Son of Thanjai poster is here — grab yours now, show your support, and wishlist the game while you're at it.
Announcing In-House MoCap Studio - Ayelet Labs
We are super thrilled to announce our brand-spanking new in-house mocap studio, Ayelet Labs, based in Chennai — fully equipped with OptiTrack PrimeX 13 cameras for high-quality motion capture.
Immersing ancient music into Unsung Empires: The Cholas with Kosai Nagaran
We collaborated with Kosai Nagaran, a group of passionate musicians from Tamil Nadu who specialize in preserving and performing ancient traditional music, to create an authentic soundtrack for Unsung Empires: The Cholas.
Letter from us to the world
Ayelet Studio is officially on the gaming map — a heartfelt letter from our Studio Head about our mission to build world-class games powered by community, culture, and innovation.