Shapefarm, the indie developer behind the upcoming co-op anime adventure game Orbitals, has clarified the various ways that players can enjoy their retro sci-fi puzzle-adventure, alongside the announcement that the game will launch with a Global Friend’s Pass.
The overview of the ways to play Orbitals was posted earlier today on the game’s official website, with the developers also posting the news across social media. Check out the image below for a quick breakdown.
Global Friend’s Pass
The Global Friend’s Pass allows a second player to enjoy the experience at no extra cost, a system that was devised and made popular by Hazelight Studios, the developers of It Takes Two and Split Fiction. As part of the Global Friend’s Pass, players will get access to a local co-op demo, letting them try out the opening chapter of the game!
A Nintendo Switch 2 is required for both players. The owner of the game must send an invite to the player using the Global Friend’s Pass so they can join.
Local Co-op
Two players can enjoy Orbitals together on one Nintendo Switch 2, all that is needed is a full copy of the game and two controllers. Easy!
Gamsharing
Players can play locally with their friends using Local GameShare across all models of the Nintendo Switch and Switch 2.
If both players are using Nintendo Switch 2 consoles, then the option to use Online GameShare is available, with only one player needing to own a full copy of the game.
A Nintendo Switch Online membership is required for both players to play online and use GameShare online via GameChat.
The addition of a Friend’s Pass for Orbitals is a savvy move, as it lowers the barrier for fans to enjoy the game as it is meant to be played, and as Hazelight’s previous releases have shown, it doesn’t seem to harm sales in the slightest.
Don’t forget to check out the recently announced voice cast for Orbitals!
The Global Friend’s Pass and co-op demo will launch alongside the game on September 3rd, exclusively on Nintendo Switch 2.
Is the Global Friend’s Pass something you or a friend will use to play Orbitals? What do you think will be your preferred way to play the game? Let us know in the comments below, and join the Gamer Social Club Discord to chat about your favourite games, play in community game nights, take part in giveaways, and more!
