HYKE: Northern Lights, a charmingly witchy 2D action RPG from Akatsuki Games and Aniplex, is set to launch on Steam, Nintendo Switch, and PlayStation 5 in Summer 2025. With a pixel-art world full of ancient magic, mysterious ruins, and emotional storytelling, HYKE blends heartfelt exploration with top-down combat and throws in a little camping to keep things comfy.
Follow in the Footsteps of a World-Ending Witch
Set in the aftermath of a devastating war between witches and humans, HYKE: Northern Lights follows a young white-haired girl named Hyke. Her mother may or may not have played a key role in ruining the world, but that’s exactly why Hyke has set out on a journey — to uncover the truth and find her long-lost parent.
The trail leads Hyke into the Forbidden Areas, an uncharted, magic-filled wilderness guarded by a group of mysterious witches known as the Meteos. There, her story begins to spiral into one of destiny, memory, and arcane forces.
Key Features – Spell-Slinging Meets S’mores
- Pixel-Perfect Aesthetic – The game boasts vibrant 2D pixel art, bringing each region and character to life with retro flair and modern polish.
- Squad Goals – Take control of seven unique characters, each offering their own playstyle and strategic options across various stages.
- Campfire Downtime – Between magical showdowns and treacherous terrain, camp out with your companions. Roast food, customize your setup, and unwind under the stars.
- Cook to Buff – Meals aren’t just for fun — cooking up tasty dishes at camp gives your party battle buffs to take into the next fight.
- Witch Companions – You’ll meet a colorful cast of witches, each with their backstories, powers, and personalities. Some might even help you unlock the secrets of the Forbidden Areas.
A Little Bit Ghibli, a Little Bit Souls, a Lot of Heart
HYKE: Northern Lights looks to blend relaxing slice-of-life elements with tense, top-down action. Its mix of lush pixel visuals, mysterious storytelling, and cozy downtime gives off big emotional RPG energy — perfect for fans of Eastward, Secret of Mana, or anything with a magical girl and a tragic past.
Keep an eye on this one when it launches in Summer 2025. Whether you’re in it for the combat, the campfire chats, or the melancholy mystery, HYKE is shaping up to be something special.
