Orbitals: co-op puzzle platformer for Nintendo Switch 2 with high scores

In short

• Orbitals is a co-op puzzle platformer exclusive to Nintendo Switch 2, developed by Shapefarm and published by Kepler Interactive.
• The game features a striking 90s anime visual style and offers both local and online co-op, making it accessible to a wide audience.
• With an OpenCritic score of 84 and 95% of critics recommending it, it’s proving to be a hit with players.

GAME-scanner analysis

Orbitals, which made its debut during The Game Awards on December 1, 2025, is designed by Jakob Lundgren, a former Hazelight Studios developer known for titles such as It Takes Two. That background sets a high bar for the co-op gameplay, which delivers a third-person asymmetrical experience. The retro anime aesthetic, combined with challenging puzzles, makes it a unique addition to the Nintendo Switch 2 library.

The strong scores on platforms like OpenCritic (84) and Metacritic (81) confirm the game’s quality. With an impressive 95% critic recommendation rate, Orbitals looks like a strong contender for the best co-op experience on Switch 2, especially for players looking for fresh co-op gameplay that goes beyond traditional formulas.

What does this mean for players?

For players, this means Orbitals is not only visually appealing, but also offers challenging, collaborative gameplay. The ability to play both locally and online makes it ideal for friends and families who want to play together, encouraging social interaction. Its focus on co-op gameplay, similar to It Takes Two, may point to an industry trend where collaboration takes center stage in game experiences.