Back to the Dawn Demo Now Available on Nintendo Switch 2 and Switch: Dive into the Prison Break RPG

Nintendo Switch 2 and Switch users can now dive into the gripping prison-themed RPG, Back to the Dawn, with a newly released demo available for download on the Nintendo eShop.

This hands-on trial gives players an immersive introduction to the game, allowing them to experience the story from the protagonist's first day in prison through the end of the second day.

Importantly, all progress made in the demo will carry over seamlessly to the full version when it officially launches on March 5, 2026. Back to the Dawn is developed as a story-driven RPG, set in the unforgiving environment of Boulderton Prison.

Players are given the choice between two unique protagonists: Thomas the Fox, a journalist who finds himself behind bars after digging too deep, and Bob the Panther, a seasoned undercover agent with his own motives for wanting out.

The narrative is fueled by choices and consequence, meaning every decision—whether forming alliances, navigating prison politics, or managing daily survival—can dramatically alter the story’s direction. The game’s world is meticulously crafted, offering more than 100 unique quests and multiple escape routes, each with their own risks and rewards.

Boasting over 500,000 words of interactive storytelling, Back to the Dawn invites players to uncover its deep layers of intrigue and betrayal.

Key objectives include investigating the truth behind the facility’s corruption, befriending (or manipulating) fellow inmates, and planning daring escapes—all while contending with three powerful gangs that rule the prison’s underbelly. The gameplay flexibility is further enhanced by an open character progression system.

Depending on player choice, characters can develop as stealthy thieves, persuasive negotiators, or formidable fighters, unlocking new abilities and crafting essential tools.

Whether choosing to follow prison rules or creating chaos, the game opens the door for numerous narrative outcomes and replayability. Players will also encounter a diverse cast of characters during their time in Boulderton Prison, giving them the opportunity to make friends, forge rivalries, or rise to the top of the inmate hierarchy.

The emphasis on player agency and branching storylines positions Back to the Dawn as one of the most engaging indie RPGs coming to the Nintendo Switch platform. With its official release set for March 5, 2026, on both Nintendo Switch 2 and the original Switch, Back to the Dawn is poised to captivate RPG enthusiasts looking for a fresh, narrative-rich challenge.

The free demo, now live on the Nintendo eShop, offers a perfect opportunity for players to test their wits and strategize their prison escape ahead of launch. Stay tuned for more updates on Back to the Dawn and the latest Nintendo Switch 2 news.