Under The Island, the anticipated 2D action-adventure RPG developed by Slime King Games and published by Top Hat Studios, is officially set for a global digital debut on the Nintendo Switch via the Nintendo eShop on February 17, 2026.
This announcement marks a significant entry for both the developer and the publisher, who have collaborated to deliver a title intended to evoke the magic and sense of discovery classic ‘90s adventure games are known for. Set on the immersive backdrop of Seashell Island, Under The Island invites players into the shoes of Nia, a bold newcomer who, together with a reserved local named Avocado, uncovers a catastrophic truth: the island is doomed to sink into the ocean.
The narrative follows their urgent quest to unravel the island’s ancient secrets in a race against time to save their home and newfound neighbors. Top Hat Studios highlights the game’s nostalgic ambitions, aiming to reignite "the joy of open exploration and the thrill of uncovering secrets, much like exploring one’s own backyard as a child." Under The Island draws inspiration from beloved top-down adventures, providing players with a self-directed journey across a vibrant pixel-art world inspired by classic SNES-era titles. Spanning six uniquely themed biomes, players can traverse environments including mysterious greenhouses, frozen caverns, and frenetic sawmills, each brimming with their own secrets, upgrades, and treasures.
The game integrates varied objectives—becoming the cook-off champion, reuniting lost cats, and evading eccentric cereal pirates—delivering a playful twist on genre conventions. Combat is defined by creativity and variety, as Nia faces off against peculiar enemies like vomiting eggplants, tunneling wolves, and other bizarre island denizens.
Players can utilize a variety of artifacts, collect loot, and unlock new abilities to customize their strategy.
Along the way, befriending animals and island residents becomes a key part of the experience, with each character offering unique side stories and potential assistance on the adventure. Key Features of Under The Island: - Embark on a lively quest to prevent Seashell Island from sinking, solving mysteries and battling unusual foes - Discover six richly detailed regions, each offering diverse challenges, collectibles, and interactive environments - Experience classic, top-down gameplay enhanced by modern design sensibilities and charming pixel art - Engage with a dynamic cast of islanders, forging alliances and influencing the unfolding story Under The Island represents a standout addition to the growing catalog of indie games on the Nintendo Switch, championed by Top Hat Studios’ commitment to bringing innovative and memorable titles to the platform.
As the February 17, 2026 release date approaches, both fans of classic adventures and new players alike can look forward to exploring the depths and wonders of Seashell Island. Under The Island will be available digitally worldwide on the Nintendo Switch eShop at launch, ensuring accessibility for players eager to embark on Nia’s extraordinary journey.
This announcement marks a significant entry for both the developer and the publisher, who have collaborated to deliver a title intended to evoke the magic and sense of discovery classic ‘90s adventure games are known for. Set on the immersive backdrop of Seashell Island, Under The Island invites players into the shoes of Nia, a bold newcomer who, together with a reserved local named Avocado, uncovers a catastrophic truth: the island is doomed to sink into the ocean.
The narrative follows their urgent quest to unravel the island’s ancient secrets in a race against time to save their home and newfound neighbors. Top Hat Studios highlights the game’s nostalgic ambitions, aiming to reignite "the joy of open exploration and the thrill of uncovering secrets, much like exploring one’s own backyard as a child." Under The Island draws inspiration from beloved top-down adventures, providing players with a self-directed journey across a vibrant pixel-art world inspired by classic SNES-era titles. Spanning six uniquely themed biomes, players can traverse environments including mysterious greenhouses, frozen caverns, and frenetic sawmills, each brimming with their own secrets, upgrades, and treasures.
The game integrates varied objectives—becoming the cook-off champion, reuniting lost cats, and evading eccentric cereal pirates—delivering a playful twist on genre conventions. Combat is defined by creativity and variety, as Nia faces off against peculiar enemies like vomiting eggplants, tunneling wolves, and other bizarre island denizens.
Players can utilize a variety of artifacts, collect loot, and unlock new abilities to customize their strategy.
Along the way, befriending animals and island residents becomes a key part of the experience, with each character offering unique side stories and potential assistance on the adventure. Key Features of Under The Island: - Embark on a lively quest to prevent Seashell Island from sinking, solving mysteries and battling unusual foes - Discover six richly detailed regions, each offering diverse challenges, collectibles, and interactive environments - Experience classic, top-down gameplay enhanced by modern design sensibilities and charming pixel art - Engage with a dynamic cast of islanders, forging alliances and influencing the unfolding story Under The Island represents a standout addition to the growing catalog of indie games on the Nintendo Switch, championed by Top Hat Studios’ commitment to bringing innovative and memorable titles to the platform.
As the February 17, 2026 release date approaches, both fans of classic adventures and new players alike can look forward to exploring the depths and wonders of Seashell Island. Under The Island will be available digitally worldwide on the Nintendo Switch eShop at launch, ensuring accessibility for players eager to embark on Nia’s extraordinary journey.
