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Shapefarm Debuts Orbitals, a Co-op Space Adventure Inspired by Classic Anime
New Co-op Space Adventure Unveiled During The Game Awards 2025
Kepler Interactive and Shapefarm have announced Orbitals, a brand-new intergalactic co-op adventure launching exclusively on the Nintendo Switch 2 in 2026. Revealed during The Game Awards 2025, the project marks the original game debut for Tokyo-based indie studio Shapefarm, and is built entirely with asymmetrical two-player gameplay at its core.
The announcement arrives with both Japanese and English versions of its first trailer, showcasing a vibrant retro anime aesthetic and a tone that leans heavily into camaraderie and cosmic adventure.
Orbitals invites two players to explore a handcrafted galaxy filled with danger, mystery and nostalgic anime charm. As a co-op-driven title designed specifically for two players, the game encourages teamwork across both exploration and puzzle solving.
With Kepler’s growing catalogue of stylistically bold games, Orbitals stands out as one of the first major Switch 2 exclusives to lean fully into local and connected cooperative play.
Maki and Omura’s Mission to Save Their Space Station Home
In Orbitals, players take on the roles of Maki and Omura, two enthusiastic explorers who must save their deteriorating space station from a supernatural cosmic storm. Despite having far more determination than practical experience, the pair venture through hazardous environments, from asteroid belts to collapsing structures, using specialised tools to carve paths forward.
The game combines exploration, light puzzle-solving and spaceship piloting as players work together to uncover the truth behind the cosmic threat.
Along the way, players can pause, take in the galaxy’s lush anime-inspired environments and enjoy moments that highlight the bond between the two protagonists. Shapefarm emphasises that Orbitals is not just about surviving space challenges but about building connection through shared experiences.
Designed for Switch 2’s Co-op Features and Retro Anime Fans
Developed in Unreal Engine 5, Orbitals leverages the Nintendo Switch 2’s expanded hardware to support multiple co-op configurations. Players can team up using two pairs of Joy-Con 2 controllers on a single device for split-screen play, share a copy of the game locally through GameShare, or connect through online matchmaking using the console’s built-in microphone and GameChat.
Orbitals also draws heavily from early 1990s Japanese anime. Shapefarm’s artists take clear inspiration from the era’s warm palette, expressive character designs and hand-drawn motion. To reinforce the aesthetic, Shapefarm partnered with Studio Massket, an animation studio behind hundreds of notable Japanese productions, to create handcrafted cutscenes that enhance the game’s authenticity.
Orbitals features full Japanese and English voice tracks, reflecting the studio’s aim to honour anime tradition through a modern co-op lens. The game will launch exclusively on Nintendo Switch 2 in 2026, with more updates expected throughout next year.
