DaRmaZat The open-world adventure game Hela has received a brand-new Deep Dive trailer, offering an extensive look at its magical backpack systems ahead of its planned 2026 release on Nintendo Switch 2, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series, and PC (via Steam and Epic Games).. While the launch window remains unconfirmed, publisher Knights Peak and developer Windup Games are providing a closer examination of the game’s core traversal and cooperative mechanics.
The newly released video places the spotlight on the Froggy Backpack, a central gameplay feature that defines exploration across Hela’s handcrafted world inspired by Scandinavian landscapes. Players step into the role of a small mouse assisting a cautious but kind witch in maintaining the natural balance of the land. Movement and interaction are built around the backpack’s evolving abilities, which transform traversal into a playful, physics-driven system.
One of its most versatile tools is the Frog Tongue, allowing players to latch onto branches and ledges to swing, climb, and build momentum. Beyond locomotion, the tongue functions as an environmental interaction device, pulling objects closer, repositioning items, or even forming improvised connections between players in co-op. When combined with certain forest creatures, it can act as a tether, enabling high-speed rides across the terrain.
The backpack also inflates into a paraglider, unlocking vertical exploration through controlled descents and midair maneuvering. Players can adjust altitude, ride air currents, and execute precise turns to access elevated areas. On solid ground, that same inflated form doubles as a springy platform, opening new paths either solo or cooperatively. A downward plunge ability further expands movement options, allowing players to smash through fragile surfaces, bounce off environmental elements, or uncover hidden routes.
Inventory management is seamlessly integrated into the design, with the backpack safely storing collected items and crafting materials for later use at the witch’s cottage. For those playing alone or in smaller groups, a system called Shades enables the creation of echo-like companions that replicate player actions, ensuring puzzles and traversal sequences remain accessible without a full co-op team.
The Deep Dive reinforces Hela’s focus on fluid movement, environmental interaction, and cooperative creativity within a warm, nature-infused setting. Previously recognized at gamescom 2025 with awards for “Most Entertaining” and “Most Wholesome,” the title continues to build anticipation as development progresses toward its 2026 launch across consoles and PC.
