Skinwalker Announced for Nintendo Switch: Team17 and Sismo Games Reveal 2026 Side-Scrolling Action Platformer

Team17 and Sismo Games have officially announced a collaborative partnership to bring the upcoming side-scrolling action platformer, Skinwalker, to the Nintendo Switch.

The game is currently targeting a release window in 2026, further expanding the Nintendo Switch’s diverse indie game portfolio.

This announcement marks the first collaboration between the renowned indie publisher Team17—recognized for hits such as Overcooked and Worms—and developer Sismo Games, a studio gaining attention for its innovative approach to narrative-driven titles. Skinwalker stands out among upcoming Nintendo Switch releases thanks to its emotionally charged narrative and dynamic gameplay.

In Skinwalker, players take on the role of a weary scientist faced with a desperate mission: to abandon his own humanity and save his terminally ill daughter.

The story unfolds within the confines of a research center, where a mysterious captive entity offers salvation—but only in exchange for freedom. Players must navigate the intricate facility, seamlessly switching between their human and beast forms.

As a scientist, players gather crucial information by interacting with coworkers and the surrounding environment.

However, to progress deeper into the restricted areas, they must transform—becoming the beast to slip through air vents or engage in visceral, high-stakes combat against soldiers and experimental threats within the lab. A key feature of Skinwalker is the interplay of dual identities.

Players must strategically alternate between their vulnerable human form, suited to stealth and dialogue, and the beast, designed for melee action and traversal.

"Each decision you make in either form carries meaningful weight," the development team has emphasized.

The game’s branching narrative ensures that actions taken—especially those involving violence or mercy—directly shape the outcome for both the protagonist and those he encounters. Combat in Skinwalker is described as intense and impactful.

While the human form is physically limited, the beast offers powerful executions and rapid movement.

However, indiscriminate violence has narrative consequences: shedding innocent blood can provide gameplay upgrades, but every choice leaves a lasting impact on the story and characters. Depth of storytelling is another core element.

Dialogue choices and player-driven decisions affect not only the protagonist's relationship with his daughter and the captive creature but also the overall fate of everyone trapped inside the facility.

According to Team17 and Sismo Games, the intent is to provide emotionally resonant storytelling that challenges players to consider the complexities of sacrifice and morality. Skinwalker is set to launch in 2026 on Nintendo Switch, with additional platforms and details to be announced as development progresses.

The first official trailer is now live, offering a glimpse into Skinwalker’s atmospheric setting, narrative focus, and unique dual-form mechanics.

As more information is released, fans can look forward to further updates via Nintendo Direct, Switch eShop listings, and the official Team17 channels. For those seeking the latest news and coverage on upcoming Nintendo Switch games, stay tuned to our dedicated Nintendo Switch section.

Nintendo Switch Nintendo Switch Team17 platformer action platformer Sismo Games Skinwalker