BitSummit Day 2 Report: A charming puzzler from an ex-Grasshopper dev and a nod to Mega Man Battle Network

May 24, 2026 - 04:40

Day two of Japan's premier indie festival, BitSummit, brought a fresh wave of creative energy, with standout titles ranging from a thoughtful puzzle game by a former Grasshopper Manufacture developer to a loving homage to the classic Mega Man Battle Network series.

One of the most talked-about booths featured "Rekindle," a puzzle game from ex-Grasshopper dev Yoshiro Kimura. Known for his work on quirky titles like "No More Heroes" and "Flower, Sun, and Rain," Kimura has crafted a surprisingly gentle experience. Players guide a small, glowing ember through a series of diorama-like levels, solving environmental puzzles to keep the flame alive. The game relies on a simple mechanic: you must find fuel sources to prevent the ember from dying out, but the challenge comes from the clever level design and the soothing, melancholic atmosphere. It feels less like a frantic race and more like a meditative journey, a stark contrast to the chaotic energy of Kimura's past work.

Across the hall, a different kind of nostalgia was on display with "Data Link," a project that openly wears its inspiration on its sleeve. This action RPG borrows the grid-based combat and deck-building mechanics of the Mega Man Battle Network series. Players navigate a digital world, equipping different "chips" to attack enemies in real-time, tactical battles. While the core loop is familiar, the developer has added a modern twist with a deeper crafting system and a more complex narrative about data corruption. The demo was packed, with fans of the classic Capcom series lining up for a chance to relive that specific brand of strategic combat.

Other notable mentions included a bizarre rhythm game where you control a sentient piece of toast and a visually stunning platformer that uses a watercolor art style. BitSummit continues to prove that Japanese indie development is thriving, focusing on unique concepts and polished execution rather than chasing trends. The festival remains a vital showcase for the weird, the wonderful, and the deeply personal.