Aka is an adorable red panda adventure, created by former Dreamworks animator

Aka
(Image credit: Cosmic Gatto)

Aka sees you play as a red panda living its best life.

Cosmic Gatto has just announced Aka, and it's possibly the cutest game on the release calendar. This indie adventure stars a red panda who, as a retired soldier, has decided to settle on a small island after the end of the war. The game's fluffy red protagonist and vibrant isometric visuals give us serious Tunic vibes, but you won't find challenging combat and deadly dungeons here. Instead, Aka is all about relaxation and finding "inner peace".

Described by its developer as a "small open-world", Aka is a non-linear adventure that gives you the freedom to do what you like. You can help out the island's inhabitants, make peace with the past by putting troubled spirits to rest, or simply grow vegetables in the back garden and do a spot of DIY. Of course, if all of that sounds like too much effort, you can just soak in a hot bath and then take a nap on a giant Capybara instead. 

The reveal trailer showcases Pine Tree Island, which is just one of many islands our panda friend can explore. Each island will have its own distinct style, from snow-covered mountains to dreamy tropical forests.

Cosmic Gatto is a former DreamWorks animator and promises the game will be "a truly heartwarming adventure". Aka is due to launch on Nintendo Switch and PC sometime in 2022.  

We've already been treated to some incredible indies this year, and there are many more on the horizon. Check out these 25 new indie games to keep on your radar in 2022.

Anne-Marie Ostler
Freelance Writer

Originally from Ireland, I moved to the UK in 2014 to pursue a Games Journalism and PR degree at Staffordshire University. Following that, I've freelanced for GamesMaster, Games TM, Official PlayStation Magazine and, more recently, Play and GamesRadar+. My love of gaming sprang from successfully defeating that first Goomba in Super Mario Bros on the NES. These days, PlayStation is my jam. When not gaming or writing, I can usually be found scouring the internet for anything Tomb Raider related to add to my out of control memorabilia collection.

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