Death Howl Announced for Nintendo Switch: 11 Bit Studios and The Outer Zone Reveal Soulslike Deckbuilder

11 Bit Studios and The Outer Zone have officially unveiled Death Howl for the Nintendo Switch, confirming a release window set for the first quarter of 2026.

The partnership between these two renowned studios brings a unique blend of Soulslike challenge and strategic deckbuilding to Nintendo's popular hybrid platform, building anticipation among fans eager for innovative gameplay experiences. Death Howl is a hybrid action-adventure that fuses the demanding mechanics of a Soulslike game with the tactical depth of a deckbuilder.

Players assume the role of Ro, a grieving mother whose journey takes her into mystical realms in pursuit of her lost son—a premise that intertwines emotional narrative with challenging combat and strategic planning.

As Ro, players will collect ingredients, craft powerful cards, and wield shamanic totems to confront relentless spirits and formidable bosses across a beautifully atmospheric world. Game Director at The Outer Zone remarked that Death Howl invites players to experience both raw emotional storytelling and intense, grid-based encounters, where every card crafted or totem acquired shapes the player’s survival and strategy.

In an official press statement, representatives from 11 Bit Studios highlighted the game's focus on atmosphere and meaningful choices, noting that "every victory in Death Howl carries the weight of love and loss." Key gameplay features include: - Immersive exploration of spiritual, myth-laden landscapes, from the haunted Forest of Howling Shadows to the Meadows of Delusion. - Dynamic deckbuilding that requires players to adapt their tactics through both melee and ranged spells. - Grid-based combat designed to test both strategic thinking and quick decision-making, with a variety of spirits and bosses providing escalating challenges. - A deeply emotional narrative centering on Ro’s resilience, the power of maternal love, and the journey toward healing and acceptance. Death Howl will be available on the Nintendo Switch both digitally via the Nintendo eShop and physically at retail.

The physical edition will include a digital copy of the game’s original soundtrack, carefully curated to complement the game’s evocative setting. Since its founding, 11 Bit Studios has established a reputation for thought-provoking, atmospheric games, and The Outer Zone has contributed to genre innovations with their previous work.

The Nintendo Switch version of Death Howl is expected to benefit from the platform's flexible play modes and expansive reach, bringing this unique title to a diverse audience when it arrives in early 2026. For more updates and coverage on Nintendo Switch titles, stay tuned to industry news and official Nintendo Direct announcements.

Nintendo Switch Nintendo Switch 11 Bit Studios The Outer Zone Death Howl Nintendo eShop