Orbitals Preview – Back To The Future

Orbitals burst onto the scene like a nostalgic breath of fresh air, blending a retro anime vibe with split‑screen co‑op and a sweeping space odyssey. The title, a Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive slated for release later this year, was showcased in a hands‑on preview at Nintendo Australia, giving early impressions of its modern twist on classic adventure.

The initial 45 minutes of the game unfold through a cinematic opening set fifteen years in the past, where a colossal cosmic storm devastates a spaceship settlement, sealing it away. The narrative then leaps forward to the present, as the storm wall cracks open, and players assume the roles of teenage explorers Maki and Omura, who set out into the void to rescue their crumbling home.

From the very first frame, Orbitals delivers a distinct anime aesthetic—soft, muted hues that lend a gentle tone to the cosmic backdrop, while the animation style pays homage to the iconic 80s and 90s anime. Though it shares a space‑western feel with titles like Cowboy Bebop, Orbitals carves its own identity with a vibrant, unsaturated palette and lively teenage protagonists, offering a fresh tribute rather than a derivative imitation.

The fusion of 2D artistry with a fully realized 3D world is striking. Throughout the brief playthrough, the seamless transitions between cutscenes and exploration showcase a polished blend of visual styles. Characters are rendered with expressive gestures and detailed designs, sparking curiosity about their backstories and the stakes of their interstellar quest.

Even though the session was short, the game’s rich visuals and engaging characters left a lasting impression, fueling a genuine desire to delve deeper into the story, the world’s lore, and the adventures that await the protagonists.

Orbitals delivers a unique cooperative adventure that propels players into collaborative problem‑solving from the very first moment. In our play‑through we encountered a rich tapestry of challenges—ranging from nimble platforming and rhythmic puzzles to piloting spacecraft and classic demolition missions. Each obstacle is deliberately asymmetrical, compelling partners to blend complementary abilities and maintain clear, constant communication.

While the core idea remains straightforward, several tasks proved genuinely demanding, often requiring multiple attempts. One early segment, for example, has one player wield a laser to carve a safe path for the other, all while charging a drone that will detonate if its power depletes. The tight timing forces precise coordination, and we found ourselves counting down or strategizing before moving on. The game’s forgiving checkpoint system—resetting us just before the obstacle—kept frustration low, even as we suffered a handful of deaths. Though the controls felt a touch clunky at first, they likely smooth out with continued play.

Orbitals rewards curiosity, sprinkling the world with hidden mini‑games and collectibles. If any are missed, the full version’s chapter‑select feature lets you revisit earlier areas, allowing you to savor the experience without the pressure of a first‑time run. The environment teems with charming details and quirky creatures, and the ship’s cuddly feline companion—certified adorable by any cat‑enthusiast—adds a delightful touch.

After a 45‑minute session, it’s clear that Orbitals is a title worth watching. I’m eager to see how the protagonists Maki and Omura navigate the unknown, and the beautifully rendered world promises countless hours of exploration. Unfortunately, I had to keep my distance from the action, as the game induced severe motion sickness. While this is not a fault of the design itself, it highlights a potential barrier for players sensitive to conflicting sensory cues.