Quick Read
- Bandai Namco announced ‘Once Upon A Katamari,’ releasing October 24, 2025.
- The game introduces time-travel mechanics, allowing players to roll through history.
- A new multiplayer mode, KatamariBall, supports up to four players online and offline.
- Players can unlock a Young King character with save data from earlier remakes.
- The game will be available on Nintendo Switch, PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC.
The beloved Katamari Damacy series is making a triumphant return with Once Upon A Katamari, a brand-new installment set to release on October 24, 2025. This marks the first original console game in the franchise in 14 years, with its announcement being one of the highlights of Nintendo’s latest Partner Direct showcase. Developed and published by Bandai Namco, the game promises to capture the quirky charm of its predecessors while introducing fresh gameplay mechanics and exciting new features.
A Cosmic Catastrophe and Time-Traveling Adventure
At the heart of Once Upon A Katamari is a familiar, yet delightfully absurd premise: the King of All Cosmos has once again wreaked havoc, accidentally destroying Earth, the moon, and countless stars. To restore the celestial order, players will roll their Katamari ball through various historical periods, including the Jurassic Period, the Ice Age, Edo-era Japan, and Ancient Rome. The time-traveling twist adds a unique dimension to the game’s iconic roll-’em-up mechanics, allowing players to collect objects from different eras to rebuild the starry sky.
The Prince of All Cosmos, along with a roster of 68 cousins and kin, will take center stage in this adventure. According to Nintendo Everything, these characters can be customized with different colors and facial features, enhancing the player’s creative experience. The game also includes a new playable character, the Young King, which can be unlocked by players who have save data from Katamari Damacy Reroll or We Love Katamari Reroll + Royal Reverie.
Innovative Gameplay Enhancements
Building on its established formula, Once Upon A Katamari introduces several gameplay enhancements that promise to make rolling even more engaging. New tools like a magnet for pulling in nearby objects, a rocket for quick bursts of speed, and a timer that freezes moving objects add strategic depth to the game. As reported by GameSpot, these items will help players navigate increasingly complex levels and gather objects more efficiently.
The game also boasts a new competitive multiplayer mode called KatamariBall. This four-player mode, available both online and offline, challenges participants to roll the largest Katamari within a limited time to score points. This addition brings a fresh layer of excitement and replayability to the series, catering to both competitive and casual players alike.
Returning Music and Visual Charm
One of the standout features of the Katamari Damacy series has always been its whimsical soundtrack, and Once Upon A Katamari is no exception. The game features a mix of returning and new music, with contributions from renowned artists like Chelmico and Daoko, as noted by Polygon. Tracks like “Katamari Time!” promise to deliver the same infectious energy that fans have come to love.
Visually, the game retains the franchise’s signature vibrant and minimalist aesthetic, which complements its quirky narrative and gameplay. The ability to customize characters adds another layer of personalization, allowing players to express their unique style while rolling through history.
A Multiplatform Release
While Once Upon A Katamari was initially announced for the Nintendo Switch, it has since been confirmed for release on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. This multiplatform approach ensures that a wide range of players will have the opportunity to experience the game, whether they’re longtime fans or newcomers to the series.
According to The Sixth Axis, the decision to expand beyond the Nintendo ecosystem reflects Bandai Namco’s commitment to reaching a broader audience. With its October release date just a few months away, excitement is building among gamers eager to dive back into the whimsical world of Katamari.
As the October 24 launch date approaches, Once Upon A Katamari is shaping up to be a delightful return to form for a franchise that has charmed players for nearly two decades. With its innovative gameplay, nostalgic music, and timeless charm, this installment promises to roll its way into the hearts of fans old and new.