Independent developer Whyknot Studio and publisher Red Dunes Games have announced that Princess of the Water Lilies, a hand-painted 2D puzzle-platformer inspired by classic animated films, will launch on November 20 for PC via Steam at $14.99. Featuring a live orchestral score performed by the Budapest Scoring Orchestra, the game offers a heartfelt and nostalgic experience set within a beautifully illustrated storybook world.

In Princess of the Water Lilies, players follow the titular Princess—a spirited gray kitten—on a whimsical yet perilous quest to rescue her frog family. As she leaps, purrs, and explores lush natural landscapes, players will uncover a world brimming with secrets, magic, and environmental puzzles. The game’s distinctive mechanic allows the Princess to release bursts of magical energy through her collar, transforming the scenery by blooming flowers, extending bridges, and revealing hidden paths.
Designed with an emphasis on handcrafted artistry and seamless storytelling, Princess of the Water Lilies evokes the visual and emotional spirit of timeless animated classics such as The Fox and the Hound, The Secret of NIMH, and The Land Before Time. The developers cite games like Ori and HOA as further inspirations for its blend of emotional storytelling and immersive puzzle-platforming.
Whyknot Studio and Red Dunes Games promise an experience that combines cozy charm with challenging precision. With its hand-painted biomes, intuitive platforming, and nostalgic tone, Princess of the Water Lilies is set to captivate both casual adventurers and fans of classic 2D animation when it debuts later this month.
Launch Date Trailer
Game Score BTS Budapest Scoring Orchestra
