The more we talk about islands, the better, quite frankly. However, today I want to talk about a fictional one that I’ve kept an eye on for what feels like years at this point, mostly due to an artist and her gorgeous art pieces. I could have sworn we saw something (maybe a trailer or something similar) in one of the umpteen showcases we’ve covered in the last 12 months, but I’ve been following Under The Island at least since 2021. Now, we have a release date for PC and consoles.

Announced on Friday (and I’ve been too sick to cover until now), the “2D exploration-based action-adventure RPG steeped in 90’s charm” has a release date for this month. Here is what the press release has to say about Under The Island and the release date:

“Retro-and-anime culture inspired indie publisher Top Hat Studios, Inc., in conjunction with developer Slime King Games, is pleased to announce that Under The Island will launch on February 17th, 2026, at 11 AM EST / 8 AM PST / 15:00 UTC. Featuring art by former art director of Daedalic Entertainment Simone Grünewald, Under The Island will be available for PC, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5 and PlayStation 4, and the Xbox family.

Set on the mysterious Seashell Island, the world of Under The Island ranges from the chilly ice caps of Bran Bran Peak (where somehow they mine cereal), to tropical villages and dusty deserts full of sentient, walking pots (who naturally hate you). Each distinct region holds its own discoveries, foes, and challenges paired alongside classic action-RPG gameplay – but with an extra emphasis on player-driven exploration. Starting out with a trusty hockey stick to bash enemies with, your power & abilities grow with new treasures found in dungeons, minigames and off the beaten path – or sometimes traded for with the locals… or ‘negotiated’ for with the island’s fauna.“

When I say that Simone’s art is what sold me on Under the Island, I am not overstating it. The art she posts online is so warm and cozy, it is absolutely stunning, and I can’t say enough good things about it. Under The Island‘s art and general feel brings to life a warm feeling of a GBA-era Pokémon, but more interesting. For most, it is probably a vein of nostalgia, but for me, something else.

The press release continues, “In Under The Island, you’ll chart your own path and discover all the secrets this world has to offer, whether it’s inside the monumental wonders of the island, or hidden away in a secret nook and cranny. Use all the tools at your [disposal], such as a shovel, a trumpet, and a… bird to create new paths, meet other adventurers, and find treasure.” This is before listing the big talking points: Uncover a sinking mystery, classic top-down adventure, six distinct regions to explore, strange enemies & unusual tactics, and a cast of memorable characters.

As noted above, Under The Island will be released on February 17th for PC, Nintendo Switch, PS4, PS5, and “the Xbox family.” I’d assume that is Series X|S down to Xbox One, given the PS4 release. Maybe I’m alone, but I’m excited to see what Johannes and Simone at Slime King Games do with Under The Island, and I can’t wait for the 17th now.

Phenixx Gaming is everywhere you are. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Also, if you’d like to join the Phenixx Gaming team, check out our recruitment article for details on working with us.

Phenixx Gaming is proud to be a Humble Partner! Purchases made through our affiliate links support our writers and charity!