Asymmetric Multiplayer Party Game Brings Scary-Cute Monster Chases to Global Players
Japanese developer FREE STYLE, Inc. has announced that OBAKEIDORO 2: Chase & Seek will launch worldwide on August 6, 2026, for the Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2. The upcoming title is the sequel to the 2019 multiplayer game OBAKEIDORO! and expands on its blend of hide-and-seek gameplay, supernatural themes, and family-friendly multiplayer action.
Set in a world inspired by Japanese folklore and ghost stories, the game combines fast-paced asymmetric gameplay with colorful visuals and accessible mechanics designed for players of all ages.
Humans and Monsters Face Off in Fast-Paced Multiplayer Matches
A Supernatural Twist on Tag
At its core, OBAKEIDORO 2: Chase & Seek is an asymmetric multiplayer game in which one team hunts while the other tries to survive.
Online matches support up to eight players and are built around short three-minute rounds. Players can take on the role of either Monsters or Humans, with each side pursuing different objectives.
Monsters must capture every Human player and place them in jail before time runs out. Humans, meanwhile, only need one surviving teammate to remain uncaptured until the round ends to secure victory.
The format creates quick, competitive matches that encourage teamwork, strategy, and rapid decision-making.
Unique Abilities Shape Every Match
Monsters Use Powerful Skills
Each Monster comes equipped with unique abilities that can dramatically influence gameplay.
Some can move at high speed, pass through walls, or unleash powerful attacks to capture opponents more effectively. Choosing the right Monster and using its abilities strategically can be the difference between victory and defeat.
The varied roster is designed to offer multiple playstyles, encouraging players to experiment with different tactics.
Humans Must Work Together
Human players rely on cooperation to stay alive.
They can escape danger by traversing different levels of the map, carrying rescued teammates to safety, and using special items such as the Lantern. This tool temporarily stuns Monsters, creating opportunities for escapes or rescue attempts.
Captured teammates are not permanently eliminated. Players can free imprisoned allies, creating dramatic comeback opportunities and keeping all participants involved throughout each match.
Inspired by Japanese Folklore and Horror Traditions
A “Scary-Cute” Visual Style
One of the game’s defining characteristics is its distinctive art direction.
Drawing inspiration from traditional Japanese legends and supernatural creatures, OBAKEIDORO 2 presents its monsters through a colorful and approachable visual style often described as “kawaii,” or cute.
This design approach allows the game to incorporate spooky themes without becoming overly intense, making it suitable for a broad audience, including younger players and families.
The result is a unique blend of horror-inspired settings and lighthearted multiplayer fun.
Multiple Ways to Play
Online and Local Multiplayer Support
The game includes a wide range of multiplayer options designed to accommodate different play styles.
Online Quick Match mode allows players to compete against opponents from around the world, with maps rotating regularly to keep gameplay fresh. Private Room Matches enable friends to create password-protected sessions and organize custom games.
Players can also join friends directly through online matchmaking features.
For those who prefer in-person gaming, local wireless multiplayer supports up to eight participants using multiple Nintendo Switch systems. A split-screen mode also allows up to four players to compete on a single console, making it ideal for family gatherings and social events.
Custom Rules and Game Share Features
A dedicated Custom Rules mode gives players control over match settings, including team composition and round duration.
Nintendo Switch 2 users can also take advantage of the Game Share feature, allowing friends to participate across compatible systems even if they do not own a copy of the game.
These options provide flexibility for both casual and competitive play sessions.
Six Game Modes Available at Launch
Players will have access to several gameplay modes:
Quick Match
Online matchmaking with rotating maps and scheduled eight-player sessions.
Room Match
Private online games that can be customized and protected with passwords.
Join Friends
Direct access to active matches hosted by friends.
Single Player Chase & Seek
A solo mode focused on earning in-game currency used to unlock new content.
Local Party Chase & Seek
Wireless local multiplayer supporting up to eight players.
Splitscreen Chase & Seek
Four-player multiplayer on a single Nintendo Switch system.
Global Release Arrives This Summer
With its combination of asymmetric multiplayer action, folklore-inspired monsters, and family-friendly design, OBAKEIDORO 2: Chase & Seek aims to build on the success of its predecessor while introducing new features and expanded multiplayer options. The game launches worldwide on August 6 for Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2, bringing its fast-paced supernatural hide-and-seek gameplay to players around the globe.
Nicholas Sparks is an award-winning American writer whose bestselling novels have captivated readers for decades. Renowned for his emotional storytelling and timeless themes of love and hope, he remains one of the most influential authors in modern romance literature.
