Kotama & Academy Citadel launches January 15, 2026

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The 3D side-scrolling Metroidvania game Kotama & Academy Citadel is coming to PC via Steam on January 15, 2026, according to publisher 2P Games and developer Atomstring Games.

In Kotama & Academy Citadel, you play as Kotama, an exchange student who arrives at the enigmatic Academy Citadel with the goal of becoming a prestigious “Carmel Star.”

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

■ About

Kotama & Academy Citadel is a 3D Metroidvania game. Players take on the role of a captivating young girl as she navigates the complex Carmel Academy Citadel. Get ready for a fast-paced, colorful adventure filled with humor as you strive to become the ‘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

Explore the Academy’s strange mix of real and futuristic worlds. Use Kotama’s unique fluid powers to get past challenges and avoid dangers. Gather items, weapons, and upgrades to become more powerful, learn new abilities, and ultimately ascend to become “The Carmel Star.”

2. Engage in Intense Combat

On this campus, success depends on demonstrating real skill and ability. To achieve your goals, you’ll need to show what you’re capable of.

Battle a wide range of strange enemies and powerful opponents as you strive for victory! Face them directly in exciting confrontations!

  • 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.

As I explore the world, I’m really focused on helping the people I meet. Getting to know their stories and earning their trust is a big deal because I’ll need them to help me find ‘The Carmel Star.’ Basically, building strong allies is key to success!

Even a small choice may sway the Academy’s and your final fate.

4. Uncover Hidden Truths

With the power to rewind time, return to the beginning and re-explore locations. Discover new routes to solve challenging puzzles, and uncover the Academy’s century-long scheme, as well as the truth about Kotama’s past.

■ Key Features

We’ve taken the classic exploration and combat of Metroidvania games and combined it with beautiful anime visuals, branching paths to discover, and a brand new combat system called Fluid Detonation. This creates a unique and exciting experience within the 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

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2025-12-17 09:19