- Sibling Ambition: The debut title from Slime King Games, founded by industry veterans (and siblings) Simone and Johannes Grünewald.
- Multi-Platform Launch: Available now on PC (Steam/GOG), Nintendo Switch, PS4/5, and Xbox Series X|S.
- Classic Vibe: A top-down 2D action RPG that captures the spirit of 90s exploration-heavy classics.
- Artistic Pedigree: Features high-quality pixel art directed by a former Daedalic Entertainment lead.
The wait is over for fans of classic handheld adventures. Slime King Games has officially released ‘Under The Island’, a vibrant, pixel-perfect action RPG that blends non-linear exploration with a quirky, humorous world. Launched on February 17, 2026, the game is already making waves for its “Zelda-esque” charm and deep focus on discovery over combat grinding.
A Sinking Secret on Seashell Island
In Under The Island, you play as Nia, a spirited girl who has just moved to the idyllic-looking Seashell Island. However, the tropical peace is short-lived. Nia soon discovers that the island is literally sinking into the ocean.
Teaming up with a local girl named Avocado, Nia must journey across six distinct biomes to uncover the cause of the disaster.
| Biome | Atmosphere | Key Threats / Features |
| Frozen Caves | Chilly and slippery | Ice puzzles and subterranean secrets. |
| Arid Deserts | Harsh and vast | Shifting sands and ancient ruins. |
| Plant Greenhouse | Lush but dangerous | Overgrown flora and biological oddities. |
| Cog Sawmill | Industrial chaos | Mechanical traps and rhythmic platforming. |
Quirky Tools and Non-Linear Paths
The gameplay eschews traditional power-scaling for a system focused on interaction and utility. Nia doesn’t just swing a sword; she uses:
- Hockey Sticks: For quick, agile strikes.
- Shovels: To dig up secrets or alter the terrain.
- Birds & Animals: Some creatures can be fed to become temporary allies, helping Nia navigate obstacles.
The world is designed to be explored at your own pace. Whether you’re entering a cooking competition, hunting down missing cats, or tackling a main dungeon, the game rewards curiosity over following a straight line.
The Art of the Pixel
One of the game’s strongest selling points is its visual identity. Art Director Simone Grünewald brings over a decade of experience from Daedalic Entertainment (known for Deponia and The Pillars of the Earth). Her touch ensures that the 90s aesthetic feels modern and expressive, with quirky enemies like “vomiting eggplants” and “burrowing wolves” that add to the game’s unique personality.
A Leap of Faith for Slime King Games
Under The Island represents a significant career milestone for the Grünewald siblings. Leaving the stability of major studios to start their own indie outfit, they aimed to create a game that felt like a “forgotten classic found in an old drawer.”
“We wanted to recreate that feeling of wonder we had as kids, where you never knew what was hidden under the next bush or behind a waterfall,” says Johannes Grünewald.
Availability and Launch Discount
Under The Island is currently celebrating its launch with a 15% discount on Steam. It is also available digitally on all major console storefronts.
Steam Store Page: Under The Island on Steam
