Pools Announced for Nintendo Switch: Liminal Space Exploration Game Hits eShop in 2026
Atmospheric Walking Sim "Pools" Coming to Nintendo Switch eShop with Free Demo
Nintendo Switch players have a new, immersive experience to look forward to with the release of "Pools," a walking simulator inspired by liminal spaces, which is officially scheduled to arrive on the eShop on February 26, 2026.
Developed to evoke a sense of unease and mystery without traditional game obstacles or threats, "Pools" is now available in demo form for curious gamers eager to get an early glimpse. Originally launched in 2024 to critical acclaim for its unique approach to psychological exploration, "Pools" stands out for its minimalist gameplay and evocative environment.
The game draws inspiration from the viral internet concepts of "liminal spaces" and "The Backrooms," particularly the "Poolrooms" subgenre.
Jared Pike, one of the original artists behind the Poolrooms concept, contributed artistic inspiration, while additional homage is paid to Matt Studios’ 2022 Poolrooms video series, Mortain Colors, Anemoiapolis by Andrew Quist, and the works of Kane Pixels. Creating Tension Through Sound and Space In a statement made available through official channels, the developers describe "Pools" as a virtual art gallery, encouraging players to wander through maze-like, aquatic settings with a focus on atmosphere over traditional gameplay.
The experience is void of user interface, dialogue, or background music, relying instead on environmental soundscapes and echo effects to ground players in its unsettling world.
Movement is affected by the environment—such as slowed walking through water—and the audio shifts to match each unique space encountered. "By leveraging the fear of getting lost, the dark, and confined spaces, 'Pools' cultivates a tense atmosphere even in the absence of monsters or direct threats," the developer explains.
As players navigate the ever-evolving setting, rooms subtly shift in appearance and ambiance, ensuring each chapter delivers a new brand of mystery.
The game is described as less about solving complex puzzles, and more about exploration and the navigation of intricate spaces.
Navigation challenges arise occasionally, but the focus remains on immersion and discovery. Unique Structure and Chapter-Based Exploration "Pools" consists of six original chapters, each lasting between 10 and 30 minutes, providing roughly 1–3 hours of contemplative gameplay.
There is no traditional narrative, no characters, and no collectible story elements like notes or logs.
Instead, progression is marked by the player's discoveries and the gradually changing environment, keeping exploration fresh and unpredictable. Release Details and Availability "Pools" will be available exclusively as a digital download from the Nintendo eShop, retailing at $9.79 USD.
The free demo, live now on the eShop, offers potential players the chance to experience the atmospheric design and liminal aesthetics firsthand.
For those interested in Nintendo Switch's expanding portfolio of experimental and art-driven titles, "Pools" is set to become an intriguing addition when it officially launches on February 26, 2026. To view the official Nintendo Switch trailer for "Pools" or for more Switch news and coverage, follow the eShop or the official Nintendo news channels.
Developed to evoke a sense of unease and mystery without traditional game obstacles or threats, "Pools" is now available in demo form for curious gamers eager to get an early glimpse. Originally launched in 2024 to critical acclaim for its unique approach to psychological exploration, "Pools" stands out for its minimalist gameplay and evocative environment.
The game draws inspiration from the viral internet concepts of "liminal spaces" and "The Backrooms," particularly the "Poolrooms" subgenre.
Jared Pike, one of the original artists behind the Poolrooms concept, contributed artistic inspiration, while additional homage is paid to Matt Studios’ 2022 Poolrooms video series, Mortain Colors, Anemoiapolis by Andrew Quist, and the works of Kane Pixels. Creating Tension Through Sound and Space In a statement made available through official channels, the developers describe "Pools" as a virtual art gallery, encouraging players to wander through maze-like, aquatic settings with a focus on atmosphere over traditional gameplay.
The experience is void of user interface, dialogue, or background music, relying instead on environmental soundscapes and echo effects to ground players in its unsettling world.
Movement is affected by the environment—such as slowed walking through water—and the audio shifts to match each unique space encountered. "By leveraging the fear of getting lost, the dark, and confined spaces, 'Pools' cultivates a tense atmosphere even in the absence of monsters or direct threats," the developer explains.
As players navigate the ever-evolving setting, rooms subtly shift in appearance and ambiance, ensuring each chapter delivers a new brand of mystery.
The game is described as less about solving complex puzzles, and more about exploration and the navigation of intricate spaces.
Navigation challenges arise occasionally, but the focus remains on immersion and discovery. Unique Structure and Chapter-Based Exploration "Pools" consists of six original chapters, each lasting between 10 and 30 minutes, providing roughly 1–3 hours of contemplative gameplay.
There is no traditional narrative, no characters, and no collectible story elements like notes or logs.
Instead, progression is marked by the player's discoveries and the gradually changing environment, keeping exploration fresh and unpredictable. Release Details and Availability "Pools" will be available exclusively as a digital download from the Nintendo eShop, retailing at $9.79 USD.
The free demo, live now on the eShop, offers potential players the chance to experience the atmospheric design and liminal aesthetics firsthand.
For those interested in Nintendo Switch's expanding portfolio of experimental and art-driven titles, "Pools" is set to become an intriguing addition when it officially launches on February 26, 2026. To view the official Nintendo Switch trailer for "Pools" or for more Switch news and coverage, follow the eShop or the official Nintendo news channels.
