#atomstring games

Side-scrolling 3D Metroidvania game Kotama & Academy Citadel will launch for PC via Steam on January 15, 2026, publisher 2P Games and developer Atomstring Games announced.

In Kotama & Academy Citadel, players assume the role of an exchange student named Kotama as she explores through the mysterious Academy Citadel, aiming to become the esteemed “Carmel Star.”

Here is an overview of the game, via its Steam page:

■ About

Kotama & Academy Citadel is a 3D Metroidvania game where players embody a mysterious yet charming girl to explore the labyrinthine “Carmel Academy Citadel.” Embark on a witty, vibrant, and adrenaline-fueled journey to claim the title of “Carmel Star.”

■ Story

Welcome to Carmel. An academy celebrated as the pinnacle of cutting-edge science. Here, “survival of the fittest” reigns supreme. “The Carmel Star,” a symbol of ultimate prestige, is the dream every student covets. As the centennial celebration approaches, a new “Carmel Star Election” is set to begin. Kotama, an mysterious “exchange student” who emerges from obscurity, decides to join the race. An academy cloistered from the world. Crises lurking in every shadow. A girl shrouded in mystery. Where did it all begin? Who is worthy of the crown?

■ Gameplay

1. Explore the Enclosed Citadel

Traverse and witness the Academy’s surreal blend of reality and sci-fi landscapes. Harness Kotama’s fluid-based abilities to overcome obstacles, evade traps. Collect items, weapons, and upgrades to grow stronger, unlock new skills, find your way to ascend and become “The Carmel Star.”

2. Engage in Intense Combat

In this campus where strength reigns supreme, exceptional prowess is key to fulfilling your ambitions. Confront dozens of peculiar foes and formidable rivals on your path to victory! Clash with them head-on!

Evade swiftly and shatter Detonation Points to overpower your enemies.

Use your unique “Fluid Detonation” ability to instantly turn the tide of the battle.

Activate the Mind Acceleration mode to seize fleeting openings and crush your opponents decisively.

Unlock various weapons, unleash unique skills, and customize your own combat style.

Customize Memocards to your liking! Leverage diverse bonus effects to secure victory with ease!

3. Rescue Lovely Companions

Meet peculiar, captivating students scattered across the citadel. Aid them during your journey, uncover their stories, and earn their loyalty as allies in your campaign for “The Carmel Star.” Even a small choice may sway the Academy’s and your final fate.

4. Uncover Hidden Truths

Use your special ability to rewind time, and head back to the starting point, revisit explored areas, chart new paths to tackle temporal riddles, and peel back layers of the Academy’s century-spanning grand plan and the secrets of Kotama’s own origins.

■ Key Features

Building on a classic Metroidvania gameplay of “Exploration + Combat,” we fuse anime-style rendering, multi-path exploration, and the innovative Fluid Detonation System for a fresh take on this genre:

Vibrant Anime Aesthetics – Gorgeous game rendering and 2D dynamic characters’ illustrations.

Intense Combat – Fast-paced duels demanding precision, reflexes, and strategy.

Epic Boss Battles – Uniquely designed challenges that test mastery.

Exploration Rewards – Abundant collectibles and upgrades for curious adventurers.

Flexible Difficulty – Casual mode or hardcore challenges—play it your way.

Watch a new trailer below.

Release Date Trailer

English

Japanese