I did kinda see Akatori coming… but at the same time, I didn't. It still hit me like it popped outta nowhere. Let me explain while you scratch your head in confusion.
So I was digging through our treasure trove of games this week (right), just scrolling, minding my business—and then boom—“Akatori: Chapter One.” I had to do a double take like, “Wait… how did I miss this?” And I’m not even gonna lie… once I clicked it to check it out, I liked what I saw and had to present it to... you.
That experience (which I haven't finished yet) had that “oh this might be something serious... in a good way” energy. And sure enough—next thing you know while seeing if there was more to the franchise (possibly a chapter two), I see... the full Akatori game is lined up for a 2026 release!
While you might not have access to Akatori: Chapter One, here’s some gameplay to give you a taste of the metroidvania action:
This gameplay is from April 2024’s Chapter One, so you should be able to expect the full release to be more polished, more expanded, and just overall leveled up.
But hey, if it ends up not being too far off from what we’re seeing here… I wouldn’t even be mad, because this is already a GOOD time. So they can add to it, but if it ain't broke don't fix it.
What Kind of Game Is Akatori?
Akatori is a metroidvania-style action-adventure, meaning:
- You’re exploring a large, interconnected world
- Unlocking abilities that open new paths
- Backtracking—but in a way that actually feels rewarding
This game is built on movement and flow.
You play as Mako, a staff-wielding monk, and that staff?
It’s not just for combat—it's a platform helping you reach new heights, and more.
We’re talking:
- Air dashes and glides
- Wall interactions and fast traversal
-
Combat that blends directly into movement
The Look & Feel
That 2.5D mix of pixel characters and 3D environments is clean.
- Bright, colorful environments
- Smooth animations that match the speed of gameplay
- A world that feels alive without being cluttered
This is one of those games where you can move fast… but still catch yourself thinking:
“Hold up… this is fire.” I would've loved playing this on the Nintendo 3DS, but... this experience is still saluted on the PC. I'm sure it will also be a Deck compatible title as well.
From Code Wakers to Contrast Games — Passing the Baton
Akatori was originally developed by Code Wakers and published by HypeTrain Digital—but somewhere along the way, the baton got passed to the indie devs over at Contrast Games.
And honestly?
That kind of transition can go either way…
But from what I’ve seen so far... it looks like the vision is still intact—and possibly even stronger.
So now I’m locked in to see how this version of Akatori really plays out.
Here’s where I land on it so far (after digging in further):
This is one of those games that didn’t start loud…
but is slowly building into something you don’t want to ignore if you're a metroidvania adventure lover!
- Strong metroidvania foundation
- Fast, fluid gameplay
- Clean art direction
- Years in development with clear evolution
So while we wait on that official release (listed as 2026)... go ahead and grab the new demo. If this demo leaves you wanting more, add it to your wishlist, and stay ready.
We might be looking at one of those sleeper hits and I'd hate for you to sleep on it if you want to support the team and the franchise.
+ Sophi
