Final Weapon had the chance to interview EPID Games CEO Han Jeong-hyun and Vice President Shim Jeong-seon about Trickcal: Chibi Go, the company’s new turn-based collectible card RPG set in Elias, the land of “Squeezy Cheeks.” Our interview delves into the developers’ approach to building stress-free gaming systems in Trickcal: Chibi Go, the Squeezy Cheeks concept, the possibility of a short anime adaptation, and much more as players outside Korea dive into the game for the first time.
Get the full interview with the Trickcal: Chibi Go developers below.
Could you please introduce yourselves and tell us your roles in the development of Trickcal: Chibi Go?
Han Jeong-hyun (CEO, EPID Games): Hello, I’m Han, CEO of EPID Games. Early in development, I worked closely with the main story writer to shape the game’s initial story and world. We created a universe based on the idea of “a world without death”—a place where players could just enjoy themselves, even by playing around with character faces. After that, my focus shifted to refining the game and spreading awareness so more people could discover it.
Shim Jeong-seon (Vice President, EPID Games): Hi everyone, I’m Shim, Vice President at EPID Games. I oversee the branding and IP direction for Trickcal, including expanding it beyond the game itself. I was also involved in writing the original Trickcal novel, which laid the groundwork for the game’s universe. I’m deeply committed to expressing what we call “Trickcalism” — that distinctive, offbeat charm unique to Trickcal. Beyond the game, I’m exploring ways to expand the IP into other areas, both online and offline!
Trickcal: Chibi Go is described as a turn-based collectible card RPG with light auto-chess mechanics and stress-free gaming. What inspired this unique take on turn-based combat systems? Could you explain Trickcal: Chibi Go’s gameplay loop?
Han: The battle system actually evolved from our previous title, Trickcal, which ended service just two hours after launch. We wanted to carry forward its potential — combining auto-chess elements with collectible card mechanics to create something light, approachable, and fun. At its core, Trickcal: Chibi Go is a distinctive 2D card RPG with a unique visual and narrative style.
You could sum it up in three words: cute, relaxing, and low-pressure. The story world itself isn’t typical either — it begins with a sugar shortage in the kingdom, sparking a bizarre and comical adventure. It’s full of humor, yet still captures real emotions and moments of reflection. Players can interact with their Apostles (characters) in all sorts of ways — from poking cheeks to patting heads or even tickling them — creating a special kind of bond. Above all, we wanted players to feel like this is a place to unwind, not another task on their to-do list.
Even the PvP Arena follows that principle: rewards are evenly distributed among the top ranks, and the differences between tiers are minimal. Boss raid content similarly focuses on honor and participation rather than hierarchy, minimizing reward gaps. We’ve also avoided using time-limited banners for new characters on the Korean server, so players don’t feel pressured to log in or spend during specific events. People already face enough stress in real life — we wanted Trickcal to be a place where they can just relax!
How did the development team determine the right gameplay balance and progression in Trickcal: Chibi Go?
Han: Our motto has always been “easy to start, hard to master.” Players who want a light, casual experience can enjoy it at their own pace, while those who want to dive deeper and compete have that option — without any pressure. We also made sure that obtaining any Apostle (character) isn’t limited to the gacha system. There are alternative ways to get them, so if one plan doesn’t work out, players still have a safety net. The goal is to make progression feel fair, flexible, and stress-free for everyone!
Trickcal: Chibi Go is set in Elias, the home of the Squeezy Cheeks. What was the creative process like for designing the chibi characters and this premise for the game? What inspired the squishy cheeks mechanic?
Han: After our previous game, Trickcal, got some negative feedback — one comment even mentioned, ‘Aside from the faces, there’s nothing special’ — we thought, ‘Alright, if the faces are what stand out, let’s really make them shine!’ That’s how focusing on the squishy-cheek concept became a core part of the game. The cute world itself also came from a personal need for comfort. When we started development, I was going through a stressful period and just wanted a space where I could feel relaxed and worry-free. Having soft, friendly Apostles to hang out with felt like the perfect way to bring that world to life.
The new game features full Japanese voice-overs with fan-favorite voice actors from other games and anime. What was the experience like bringing these renowned voice actors on board?
Han: We worked hard to get some top Japanese voice actors on board, and it was so heartwarming when they told us they loved how cute the game is. I even got to sit in on the recording sessions, and it was amazing to see their professionalism up close. Seeing their passion really made me appreciate what they brought to the characters, and hope the players will resonate with that too.
Trickcal: Chibi Go was exhibited at Tokyo Game Show 2025 this past September. What was the fan reception for Trickcal: Chibi Go like during the event? Was there any player feedback that stood out?
Han: I couldn’t attend in person because we were celebrating our 2nd-anniversary event in Korea at the same time, which was a bit unfortunate. But I heard so much positive feedback from the team on-site, and I really appreciated it. One thing that really stood out was players jokingly calling themselves “cheek-holding nations.” They were so excited for the game and loved the Squeezy Cheeks characters—it left a strong impression on me.
Bilibili and Epid Games encourage Trickcal: Chibi Go players to create non-commercial fan creations featuring their favorite characters from the game. Has Bilibili and Epid Games considered making or authorizing official merchandise and works, such as a short anime?
Han: We’re incredibly grateful for all the fan creations we’ve seen so far. Even before the game’s official release, people in Korea were making amazing fan works, and some Japanese fans even brought unofficial merchandise to events like Comiket,—it was really touching to see. For official content, we’ve already started offering merchandise in Korea, and in Japan, we’re collaborating with partners like Village Vanguard to release and sell official items. Short animations or other official expansions are on our radar, and we’re excited to explore them as the community grows.
What are some key takeaways that you’d like fans to receive after trying out Trickcal: Chibi Go?
Han: I hope players feel a sense of healing and fun just from interacting with the cute Apostles and their squishy cheeks. Even small moments, like poking or patting the characters, are meant to be relaxing and joyful. The story is full of chaotic, playful moments, so I want players to enjoy that sense of lighthearted fun.
Shim: Honestly, if players come away thinking, “Hey, this is pretty fun,” that’s enough for us. Beyond that, we hope they get little bursts of empathy, comfort, and shared joy from spending time in the game’s whimsical world.
What can players expect from post-launch updates?
Han: Sure! We’ve been planning updates so there’s always something new and fun for players. Our goal is to bring fresh content almost every week, so the game always feels lively and engaging.
Shim: Since the global launch comes a bit later than the Korean server, we’ve made sure there are plenty of ways to keep players excited and engaged. We have lots of updates planned, so there’ll always be something new to look forward to!
Is there anything else you would like to share?
Han: We really hope to spread the “Squeezy Cheeks” concept even to markets like North America and Europe, where it’s challenging for a Korean developer to break in. Please take good care of our little cheeky characters!
Shim: This is our first global launch, so it’s exciting but a little nerve-wracking. The game isn’t perfect yet, but we’re improving it in real time, and we hope players will join us, have fun, and grow with us as we continue to make it better.
Thank you so much for your time, Han and Shim!
Trickcal: Chibi Go is available on Android via Google Play Store and iOS via App Store.
