The Gorgeous, Anime-Inspired Orbitals Is My Frontrunner for Co-Op Game of the Year

July 8, 2026 - 11:56

I got my hands on Orbitals at Summer Game Fest, and it is already my top pick for co-op game of the year. This Switch 2 exclusive blends gorgeous anime-inspired visuals with clever puzzle design that demands real teamwork. The art style alone is worth noting -- it looks like a hand-drawn anime come to life, with vibrant colors and smooth animations that make every level feel like a living painting.

The core gameplay revolves around two players controlling separate characters who must coordinate their movements to solve environmental puzzles. In my demo, my partner and I had to manipulate gravity fields, sync our jumps, and pass objects between us to open paths forward. It sounds simple, but the timing and communication required are surprisingly deep. One wrong move and you are both resetting the room.

What really sold me was how the game forces you to rely on each other. There is no solo mode here. Every puzzle is built for two brains working together. The developer told me the full release will feature over 50 levels, each with its own twist on the mechanics. I can already imagine the late-night sessions with a friend, shouting directions and celebrating when a tough puzzle finally clicks.

Orbitals launches on September 3. If you own a Switch 2 and have a friend who likes a challenge, this is the game to watch.