Retro Anime Co-Op Adventure Orbitals Launches Exclusively on Switch 2 This Summer

The retro anime-inspired cooperative adventure Orbitals is set to launch this summer exclusively for Nintendo Switch 2. The announcement was confirmed by publisher Kepler Interactive and developer Shapefarm, marking the studio’s debut project with a strong focus on two-player cooperative play.

Designed from the ground up around asymmetrical co-op, Orbitals follows the story of Maki and Omura, two closely bonded space explorers trying to save their deteriorating space station from a supernatural cosmic storm. The experience centers on collaboration, with both characters relying on distinct tools and abilities to overcome environmental hazards, solve traversal challenges, and navigate dangerous regions of space together.

Orbitals‘ gameplay shifts fluidly between hands-on puzzle-solving, spaceship piloting through asteroid fields, and quieter moments that emphasize atmosphere and world-building. The adventure leans heavily into the tone and visual language of early ’90s Japanese anime, presenting a stylized galaxy that balances lighthearted character dynamics with mounting cosmic threats.

Built in Unreal Engine 5, Orbitals is tailored specifically to Nintendo Switch 2 hardware. The game supports multiple cooperative configurations, including local split-screen play on a single system, GameShare functionality across compatible Nintendo Switch 2 and Nintendo Switch devices, and online co-op. Communication is integrated directly through the system, with support for the Nintendo Switch 2’s built-in microphone and GameChat features.

Visually, Orbitals draws clear inspiration from classic anime aesthetics, brought to life by Shapefarm’s Tokyo-based team. Hand-crafted animated cutscenes were produced in collaboration with Studio Massket, known for its extensive work across the Japanese animation industry. With both Japanese and English voice acting included, the project aims to deliver an authentic, character-driven cooperative adventure rooted in anime tradition.