Published on: February 18, 2018
Fe, the atmospheric platform adventure from Swedish developer Zoink, is now available on the Nintendo Switch via the Nintendo eShop.
Bringing players into the depths of a shadowy, Nordic forest, Fe invites exploration through climbing, gliding, and digging, while interacting with a vibrant ecosystem and its mystical inhabitants.
The game features a unique communication mechanic with creatures, allowing players to unlock new abilities essential for progressing through the world.
Fe marks a tonal shift for Zoink, a studio previously known for the comedic charm of titles such as Stick It To The Man and Zombie Vikings.
According to producer and creative director Hugo Bille, Fe's origins stem back to ideas even before their earlier projects went into production.
Bille noted that while Zoink had excelled at a particular comedic style, the team always aimed to branch out creatively, resulting in Fe's more mature and contemplative direction.
Bille explained, "Our studio developed a routine with games like Stick It To The Man and Zombie Vikings, but we've always aspired to diversify our portfolio.
Fe represents a different, more adventurous side of Zoink that we've wanted to share."
With Fe, Zoink took on the challenge of creating a fully open 3D world, a departure from their typical 2D and side-scrolling formats.
Bille emphasized that the team was determined to innovate and avoid falling into repetition, drawing inspiration from beloved titles like Journey, Shadow of the Colossus, and classic Nintendo adventures.
"This project allowed us to return to the kind of games we cherished growing up—those that encourage independent exploration and discovery," Bille said.
Nature and humanity’s connection to it are central themes in Fe’s narrative.
The game contrasts the approach of antagonistic forces, known as the Silent Ones, with the player’s journey to cooperative harmony with the forest’s creatures and environment.
Bille elaborated, "Our aim is to highlight the importance of working in harmony with nature rather than subduing it, fostering greater empathy in how we interact with our world."
The title 'Fe'—pronounced 'Fee-uh'—draws from the Swedish word for 'fairy,' signifying a guardian spirit of the forest.
As players explore and evolve in the game, they gradually fulfill the role of the forest’s protector.
Bille described this journey as core to the experience: "You start as someone lost and unfamiliar with their surroundings, but over time, you grow to become a key part of the ecosystem.
That transformation is at the heart of Fe."
When it comes to visual inspiration, Fe’s artistic direction thrives on the interplay of darkness and color, capturing the enigmatic, often mysterious atmosphere of Nordic forests.
The team embraced a palette rich in purples, blacks, and pinks to create an environment shrouded in both wonder and danger.
Bringing Fe to the Nintendo Switch was a significant technical achievement for Zoink.
Bille highlighted that the Switch version retains nearly all visual fidelity, with only minimal adjustments to effects and draw distance in select areas.
"The Switch edition is something we’re especially proud of, running smoothly and offering the full Fe experience to Nintendo players," Bille stated.
Fe also holds the distinction of being the first title in the EA Originals program, a publishing initiative from Electronic Arts aimed at spotlighting innovative indie projects.
Bille described the partnership as a "tremendous support," noting EA’s hands-off approach allowed Zoink’s creative vision to flourish.
"We received invaluable guidance from EA’s seasoned team, helping us navigate development challenges without stifling our creativity."
Fe is available now for download on the Nintendo Switch eShop, expanding Zoink’s diverse catalog and offering players a contemplative adventure set in a mythical, living world.
Fe Nintendo Switch Zoink EA Originals Nintendo eShop EA Switch Switch eShop Nintendo Switch eShop