Whitethorn Games brings Kernel Hearts at the Tokyo Game Show 2026. The game is developed by Ephemera Games. Visitors can try out a playable version before the game’s full release in September 2026.
The Mission to Defeat the God at the Tower of Babel
Players take on the role of a member of the M.A.H.O.U. Unit. This unit is a team of magical girl androids with superpowers. The team, consisting of up to four members, has one mission: to overthrow a god to save the world from destruction.
The journey begins at the base of the Tower of Babel. Players climb each floor while fighting enemies coming from all directions and acquiring new skills. The threats grow stronger with each floor the player ascends.
Key Features of Kernel Hearts
Kernel Hearts combines roguelike elements with a lab-based progression system. Here are some of the game’s key features:
- Players collect temporary skills during each run to enhance their characters' attacks, magic, and movement.
- A loss doesn't stop your progress. The unit returns to the lab, and players can unlock and equip up to 256KB of skill chips using rewards from previous missions.
- Players can trigger a Magical Transformation to temporarily remove the Tower's curse and launch a powerful attack against nearby enemies.
- This game supports both single-player and cooperative modes for up to four players.
- Each celestial realm features a unique ally that players can approach to deepen their relationship.
Kernel Hearts Release Date and Platforms
Kernel Hearts will be released on September 17, 2026. The game will be available on PC via Steam and Epic Games Store. Kernel Hearts will also be available on Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, and Nintendo Switch 2.
Don't miss our exclusive report on TGS 2026
TOKYO GAME SHOW is one of the world's largest game shows organized by the Computer Entertainment Supplier's Association (CESA) and co-organizers Nikkei Business Publications, Inc. and DENTSU INC. TGS has become the premier platform for game industry players to showcase their latest innovations and technologies.
Asia’s largest gaming festival is about to celebrate its 30th anniversary and promises an exhibition on a scale unlike any in previous years. With the theme “The Longest Five Days of Nonstop Play,” this year’s event will make history. For the first time, the exhibition will run for a full five days.
The offline exhibition will be held at Makuhari Messe, Chiba, from September 17 to September 21, 2026. The format of the event remains a hybrid system, combining on-site exhibitions with online initiatives to reach a global audience.
Stay tuned for the latest and exclusive coverage of TGS 2026, only at PlayEatSleep.Fun.
Kernel Hearts Trailer
Gameplay Trailer
