Published on: June 20, 2025
Nova Hearts Launches on Nintendo Switch—Shoreline Games and Lightbulb Crew Debut Dating-Battle Sim
Nova Hearts, an innovative blend of turn-based strategy, dating sim, and visual novel gameplay, has officially arrived on the Nintendo Switch.
Developed collaboratively by Shoreline Games, an emerging studio making its debut, and Lightbulb Crew, well-known for their critically acclaimed tactical RPG Othercide, Nova Hearts invites players to lead a team of heroes inspired by iconic superhero animations such as Sailor Moon.
The game stands out for its unique combination of genres, interweaving strategic combat with branching relationship-building mechanics.
Players recruit and interact with a cast of diverse heroes while battling to protect their hometown from mysterious threats.
Drawing on the expertise of Lightbulb Crew, who previously saw international praise for their stylistic strategy game Othercide, Nova Hearts continues the studio’s reputation for inventive gameplay design and dynamic storytelling.
In a recent launch announcement, representatives from Shoreline Games and Lightbulb Crew expressed great enthusiasm for the project’s release on Nintendo Switch, citing their excitement to introduce a new experience that merges tactical strategy and emotional narrative.
They highlighted the title’s accessible gameplay loop, vibrant art direction, and homage to classic magical hero franchises.
"We’re thrilled to deliver a title that balances tactical depth with heartfelt storylines," said Nova Hearts’ development team in an official statement.
"Our goal was to create a game where choices—both in and out of battle—truly matter to the player experience."
Nova Hearts is available now as a digital download exclusively through the Nintendo eShop, joining the ranks of third-party titles expanding the Nintendo Switch’s diverse library.
The game represents a significant milestone for Shoreline Games as their maiden release, and further solidifies Lightbulb Crew’s position as a developer to watch in the global indie scene.
The Nintendo Switch platform continues to be a vibrant hub for genre-defying indie games, particularly those that push boundaries in narrative and gameplay mechanics.
With a positive critical legacy behind Lightbulb Crew’s previous work, Nova Hearts is poised to attract both strategy enthusiasts and fans of story-driven gaming experiences.
For more updates on Nintendo Switch releases, game launches, and in-depth developer interviews, keep an eye on our Nintendo Switch news hub.
Nintendo Switch Nintendo Switch Nova Hearts Lightbulb Crew Shoreline Games Nova Othercide Nintendo eShop