Under the Island: Zelda-esque Adventure Arrives 2026

Under the Island is coming to PlayStation 5 and PlayStation 4 on February 17, 2026.

This upcoming action-adventure title, developed by Slime Bird Games and published by Top Hat Studios, promises a journey filled with puzzles, exploration, and a unique approach to problem-solving. Instead of relying solely on direct combat, players will need to employ a bit of 'culinary cunning' and environmental interaction, often involving the island's fauna, to progress. It's a refreshing take that evokes the spirit of classic 2D adventures while carving out its own quirky identity.

The Ship of Theseus, But Beige

The game's premise centers on adventurers exploring Seashell Island, navigating traps, solving puzzles, and confronting creatures guarding treasure. The developers highlight a gameplay philosophy where brute force is seldom the optimal solution. Instead, players might find themselves using 'wander treats' to guide a ram into a beehive or employing other animal companions to overcome obstacles. This mechanic, demonstrated at 00:30 in the announcement trailer, suggests a gameplay loop that rewards observation and creative thinking rather than straightforward aggression.

Beyond environmental puzzles, Under the Island also features a robust item and ability upgrade system. Players can enhance their gear, such as the Hockey Stick or Large Ramen Bowl, with materials like leeks. This upgrade process involves visiting Ranar, a dimension-traveling bear. This character, seen at 00:55, appears to be a central hub for progression, offering a whimsical twist on typical RPG mechanics.

Character progression also includes learning new techniques. As shown at 01:07, players can acquire abilities like 'Sprint' by finding and using technique manuals. This system suggests a gradual expansion of the player's movement and combat capabilities, reminiscent of how Link gains new items and skills throughout the Legend of Zelda series.

Culinary Cunning and Questionable Authorship

The game's tone is decidedly lighthearted, a sentiment reinforced by its vibrant pixel art, upbeat soundtrack, and the narrator's playful commentary. The mention of "culinary cunning" and "questionable authorship" of technique manuals adds a layer of charm that sets Under the Island apart. Even the boss battles, like the encounter with the giant green segmented worm 'Shai Holok' at 01:28, are presented with a sense of adventure rather than grim seriousness.

Under the Island has received an ESRB rating of Everyone 10+ for Fantasy Violence, indicating it's suitable for a broad audience. The blend of puzzle-solving, exploration, and light combat, all wrapped in a charming retro aesthetic, positions it as a title to watch for fans of classic action-adventure games. The prospect of using treats to manipulate wildlife and upgrading gear from a dimension-hopping bear certainly offers a unique flavor to the genre.