Order of the Sinking Star, the latest puzzle game from The Witness developer Thekla Inc, is set to release on October 8th, 2026, for Nintendo Switch 2, PlayStation 5, and Windows PC. This highly anticipated title, helmed by Braid creator Jonathan Blow, promises an immersive experience with over 500 hours of gameplay, centered around interconnected puzzles inspired by indie Sokoban games. The game's release date announcement coincides with a busy fall video game release calendar, positioning it as a strong contender among the season's biggest releases.
The game's complexity is a key feature, with three main layers of puzzles. The early game focuses on discovering and understanding individual puzzle mechanics, similar to The Witness, allowing players to grasp the fundamentals of the puzzle language. The mid-game then challenges players to combine these mechanics to solve more intricate challenges, with a clear progression hook that encourages exploration and discovery. The late game, while more advanced, is shrouded in mystery, with Blow keeping its details under wraps.
However, the game's development has been mired in controversy. The credits sequence has been a point of contention, with some developers, including Mirror Isles creator Alan Hazelden, distancing themselves from the project due to Blow's outspoken persona and controversial social media posts. The credits drama has raised questions about how the game's credits will be handled, with Blow initially being evasive and later hinting at a unique and secretive approach to crediting contributors.
Despite the controversy, the game is expected to feature full credits, including the names of the developers who made the games licensed for Order of the Sinking Star. These credits will be delivered in a special and distinctive way, in line with Jonathan Blow's iconic style, and will also be listed on Moby Games and included in press materials. The game's release date and platform announcements mark a significant milestone for the gaming industry, offering players a challenging and immersive puzzle experience that promises to test their skills and patience.
