Application Systems, in collaboration with German studio Studio Seufz, has officially released The Longing on Nintendo Switch.
The news was confirmed during this week’s Nintendo Indie World showcase, spotlighting some of the most anticipated indie games set to enhance the Nintendo Switch experience.
The Longing is described by its developers as a contemplative journey focused on self-isolation and solitude.
Players assume the role of a solitary Shade, the very last servant of a slumbering king who once presided over a vast subterranean kingdom.
With the king’s powers waning, he succumbs to sleep for 400 days to restore his strength, tasking the Shade with waiting inside the underground palace until his return. What sets The Longing apart from traditional adventure games is its real-time countdown mechanic.
The game’s 400-day timer begins the moment the player starts and continues to tick down even when the console is powered off or the game is closed.
This unique approach gives players the choice to engage with the Shade’s journey actively or simply wait, letting time pass until the story concludes. While occupying the sprawling caves, players have the freedom to explore their environment, gather objects, and personalize the lonely Shade’s underground home.
When not exploring, players can immerse themselves in classic works of literature, such as reading "Moby Dick," directly within the game.
The gameplay experience further opens up as players decide whether to obey the king’s instructions or venture into previously forbidden areas of the ancient labyrinth. Studio Seufz, along with publisher Application Systems, initially released The Longing on other platforms to critical acclaim for its innovative mechanics and emotional depth.
The launch on the Nintendo Switch’s eShop not only broadens the game’s audience but also aligns with the platform’s commitment to offering unique, story-driven indie experiences.
The Longing is now available worldwide via the Nintendo eShop for Nintendo Switch, providing players everywhere the rare opportunity to reflect on isolation, passage of time, and personal agency through an evocative and introspective adventure.
The news was confirmed during this week’s Nintendo Indie World showcase, spotlighting some of the most anticipated indie games set to enhance the Nintendo Switch experience.
The Longing is described by its developers as a contemplative journey focused on self-isolation and solitude.
Players assume the role of a solitary Shade, the very last servant of a slumbering king who once presided over a vast subterranean kingdom.
With the king’s powers waning, he succumbs to sleep for 400 days to restore his strength, tasking the Shade with waiting inside the underground palace until his return. What sets The Longing apart from traditional adventure games is its real-time countdown mechanic.
The game’s 400-day timer begins the moment the player starts and continues to tick down even when the console is powered off or the game is closed.
This unique approach gives players the choice to engage with the Shade’s journey actively or simply wait, letting time pass until the story concludes. While occupying the sprawling caves, players have the freedom to explore their environment, gather objects, and personalize the lonely Shade’s underground home.
When not exploring, players can immerse themselves in classic works of literature, such as reading "Moby Dick," directly within the game.
The gameplay experience further opens up as players decide whether to obey the king’s instructions or venture into previously forbidden areas of the ancient labyrinth. Studio Seufz, along with publisher Application Systems, initially released The Longing on other platforms to critical acclaim for its innovative mechanics and emotional depth.
The launch on the Nintendo Switch’s eShop not only broadens the game’s audience but also aligns with the platform’s commitment to offering unique, story-driven indie experiences.
The Longing is now available worldwide via the Nintendo eShop for Nintendo Switch, providing players everywhere the rare opportunity to reflect on isolation, passage of time, and personal agency through an evocative and introspective adventure.
