Publisher 2P Games and developer Atomstring Games have finally confirmed the launch of the new game Kotama & Academy Citadel. The game that carries the 3D Metroidvania side-scrolling genre is confirmed to be released on January 15, 2026 for the PC platform through Steam.
This announcement is good news for fans of the action adventure genre who have been waiting for a title with strong anime visuals. With a release date locked in, the developers are now focusing on the final stages of refinement to ensure a maximized gaming experience at launch.
Carmel Academy Story Synopsis
This game will take you to a location called Carmel Academy Citadel. This place is described as a closed academy that is the center of all cutting-edge science. However, don't imagine an ordinary school, because behind the technological advancements, this academy adheres to a strict rule where the concept of “survival of the fittest” applies absolutely to anyone who is there.
You'll play the role of Kotama, a mysterious exchange student who came out of nowhere. Kotama's main goal at the academy is quite ambitious: to achieve the prestigious title of “The Carmel Star”. This title is not just any nickname, but the highest status symbol that every student there dreams of.
The game's story begins just in time for the academy's centennial celebration, a moment that marks the beginning of the election of a new “Carmel Star”. Kotama decides to jump into the fierce competition. Throughout the game, you'll be invited to discover who Kotama really is and what big secrets the academy has been hiding for a century.
Kotama & Academy Citadel Gameplay
True to its genre, Kotama & Academy Citadel offers exploration of an interconnected labyrinthine map. You'll explore a unique academy environment that blends elements of reality with surreal science fiction landscapes. The level design is specifically designed to support a dynamic side-scrolling gameplay style.
One of the key features in exploration here is the use of fluid-based capabilities or fluid-based abilities. This physical ability is Kotama's mainstay to overcome various difficult environmental obstacles. Not only that, but this skill is also vital for avoiding the dangerous traps scattered in various corners of the academy.
In addition to physical abilities, there is another interesting mechanic which is time manipulation. You can use special abilities to turn back time (rewind time) and return to the starting point. This feature will be crucial when you need to solve temporal puzzles. By revisiting areas you've already explored, you can find new paths or solutions that you might have missed before.
Combat System and Character Customization
Living in a tough college environment means you have to be ready to fight. You'll face off against dozens of strange enemies and tough rivals in fast-paced duels (fast-paced). Winning in this game isn't just a matter of pressing buttons carelessly, but relies heavily on your precision, reflexes, and strategy in reading your opponent's moves.
The standout combat mechanic here is “Fluid Detonation”. This unique ability can be used to instantly turn the tide of battle. You can also destroy “Detonation Points” to suppress enemies more effectively. There's also a “Mind Acceleration” mode that lets you take advantage of short enemy attack gaps to deliver deadly counterattacks.
The RPG element is also felt strongly through the in-depth weapon and skill customization system. You are given the freedom to craft your own fighting style. Additional features in the form of “Memocards” are also available for customization, where these cards provide a variety of bonus effects that will greatly help facilitate the course of battle.
Associate Features and Anime Visual Style
While exploring the citadel, you won't be alone all the time. You'll meet other students scattered in various locations, each with a unique personality. It's your job to rescue them in the midst of this dangerous journey.
These interactions open up opportunities to uncover their backstories. If you manage to gain their trust, these characters can become loyal allies in your quest for the title of “The Carmel Star”. Keep in mind that the small choices you make can affect the ultimate fate of both the academy and your main character.
In terms of appearance, the game combines 3D environment rendering with dynamic 2D character illustrations. The bright anime visual style (vibrant anime aesthetics) is the main visual attraction. The game is also quite friendly to different types of players as it offers flexibility in difficulty levels, ranging from casual modes to hardcore challenges for those of you who are looking for a tough test.
Demo Version Available on Steam
For those of you who are curious to try out the mechanism before the full release, a version of demo The demo of the game is actually already available and can be downloaded via the Steam page. The playable content in this demo includes a segment of the prologue stage called “Central District”.
However, it should be noted that this demo version has some limitations. Features such as notebooks, weapon upgrades (weapon enhancement), and Memocard slot expansion is not yet accessible.
In addition, storage data (save data) from this demo version will not be transferable to the full game upon release, so think of it as a warm-up session before getting into the real adventure.
