Publisher Kepler Interactive and newcomer developer Shapefarm have revealed Orbitals, a co-op puzzle adventure inspired by classic anime. The gorgeous reveal trailer also reveals that Orbitals will launch exclusively on Nintendo Switch 2 sometime in 2026.
Shapefarm is based in Tokyo, Japan, so it’s no wonder Orbitals is a clear love letter to 1990s anime, like Neon Genesis Evangelion, Cowboy Bebop, and others. In the game, players will team up as Maki and Omura, two inseparable explorers who must brave the perils of space to save the crumbling space station they call home from a supernatural cosmic storm.
Check it out in the Orbitals reveal trailer for yourself below:
“Whether it’s by using unique tools to open the path forward, piloting their spaceship through dangerous asteroid fields, or taking a break and soaking up the lavish anime-inspired atmosphere, players will embark on an intergalactic adventure and forge new bonds as friends together,” a press release reads.
Orbitals is being developed in Unreal Engine 5 and, because it’s exclusive to Switch 2, will allow players to team up with two pairs of Joy-Con 2 controllers on a single Switch 2 console via local split-screen co-op. Plus, with Nintendo’s GameShare feature, players can share Orbitals with a local player on another Switch 2 or Switch console, or matchmake online for remote co-op.
Here are some additional Orbitals screenshots:
Kepler Interactive says Shapefarm teamed up with Studio Massket, which is an anime studio behind series like I Was Reincarnated as the 7th Prince so I Can Take My Time Perfecting My Magical Ability, Lycoris Recoil, Blue Lock, and Sasaki and Miyano, to create bespoke cutscenes for Orbitals for an added layer of animation authenticity.
Orbitals will launch exclusively on Switch 2 sometime in 2026.
Are you going to check out Orbitals next year? Let us know in the comments below!
This sounds like an exciting addition to the Switch lineup! The blend of co-op gameplay and classic anime inspiration has great potential. Looking forward to seeing how it develops!
anime aesthetics really sets it apart. Plus, the focus on puzzle-solving could make for some unique team dynamics. I’m curious to see how the different characters will interact and contribute to the challenges!
I completely agree! The anime aesthetics do add a unique charm to the game. I’m also curious about how the co-op element will enhance the puzzle-solving experience, especially if it encourages teamwork and creative solutions. It could lead to some really engaging gameplay moments!