Hand-Drawn Animation
Ongoing coverage on Hand-Drawn Animation.
Latest coverage
Gurei launch trailer – 2D hand-drawn samurai action game available on Nintendo Switch
Gurei, a new high-difficulty 2D hand-drawn samurai action game, has received its official launch trailer and is now available on Nintendo Switch. Developed by Lobo Sagaz Studio and published by Astrolabe Games, the game features precise combat, challenging bosses that can be fought in any order, and a dynamic difficulty system. Players can acquire unique powers from defeated bosses, and the narrative involves the main character, Rei, absorbing the personalities of the Kami she defeats.
Cuphead devs announce two new games: a hand-animated successor, and an 8-bit throwback
Studio MDHR announced two new games at Summer Game Fest 2026: a direct successor to Cuphead featuring new hand-animated adventures, and Mighty Cuphead Adventure, an 8-bit platformer that serves as a love letter to retro gaming. Mighty Cuphead Adventure will be available on modern platforms, with a physical Sega Master System cartridge also planned.
Moonlight Pale is a 2D Hand-Drawn Historical Survival Horror Game
Independent developer Blue Lily has launched a Kickstarter campaign for Moonlight Pale, a 2D hand-drawn survival horror game set in a late 1800s female seminary. The game features an original soundtrack by Arai Tasuku and a fully voiced cast, with funding sought to complete development for a Q4 2026/Q1 2027 release on Steam. Stretch goals include additional language support and console ports.
You've Got to Give This Hand Drawn Gem a Shot on PS5, Free Demo Out Now
A free demo for the hand-drawn platformer The Eternal Life of Goldman is now available on PlayStation 5. While the game does not yet have a release date, it is expected sometime in 2026. Progress from the demo will not carry over to the full game.
Oh My Doug! is a wild new metroidvania set inside a human body
Oh My Doug! is a new hand-drawn metroidvania from Odd Men In, set inside the human body of a man named Doug. The game features a 90s cartoon aesthetic, co-op gameplay with two mismatched heroes, and a progression system based on unlocking new abilities. It is planned for PC and consoles in 2027.
Couch Co-op Hand Drawn Puzzle Adventure Lost in Tandem Announces July Release Date!
Lost in Tandem, a hand-drawn 2D puzzle adventure game developed by Tempete Studio and published by Juicebox Studios, has announced a July 2026 release date for PC. The game features cooperative gameplay where a girl and a robot explore a post-apocalyptic world, solving puzzles and uncovering lore. It emphasizes traditional art techniques and is designed for couch co-op.
Chronoscript: The Endless End Reveals Age of Discovery Stage in New Trailer
Shueisha Games and DeskWorks have revealed the Age of Discovery stage for their hand-drawn action-adventure game Chronoscript: The Endless End in a new trailer. The game, which features a unique blend of 2D manuscript pages and a 3D hub world, is set to release in 2026 for PlayStation and PC via Steam.
Avatar Legends: The Fighting Game comes out in July and it looks pretty slick
Avatar Legends: The Fighting Game is set to launch on July 2, 2026, for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch, and PC. The game features 12 playable characters, hand-drawn visuals inspired by the series, and a unique "Flow System" focused on elemental combat. It will include various modes, online multiplayer with rollback netcode and cross-play, and an original story.
The Eternal Life of Goldman Premieres Day One On Xbox Game Pass!
The hand-drawn 2D platformer The Eternal Life of Goldman will be available day one on Xbox Game Pass. Developed by Weappy Studio and published by THQ Nordic, the game is also releasing on Nintendo Switch and PlayStation 5. A demo for Xbox Series X|S is available now.
After teasing a 2D take on Hoppers that never was, Kiki's Delivery Service's return to theaters proves we need hand-drawn animation now more than ever
The theatrical re-release of Studio Ghibli's Kiki's Delivery Service highlights the enduring beauty and importance of hand-drawn animation, contrasting with the dominance of 3D CGI in modern filmmaking. The article argues that purely hand-drawn animated movies are becoming an endangered species, especially in the West, and urges audiences to appreciate films like Kiki's while they are still accessible.
MOUSE: P.I. for Hire Is More Than Just a Clever Concept | COGconnected
MOUSE: P.I. for Hire is a highly anticipated hand-drawn noir FPS that has garnered attention since its 2023 reveal. The game's ambitious use of 2D animation and its unique concept have impressed critics, who highlight the significant time and skill required for such a creative endeavor.
Mouse: P.I. for Hire Is The Most Creative Hand-Drawn Noir FPS I've Ever Played I The Koalition
Mouse: P.I. for Hire is a unique hand-drawn noir first-person shooter that draws inspiration from classic rubberhose animation. The game's charm lies in its locations, characters, and music, making it a standout title in its genre.
