Press release:
TOKYO – Mars. 9th, 2023.
The Tokyo-based (Japan) indie games publisher PLAYISM and indie games developer kouri, are today very excited and happy to announce that the remake of their 2D exploration-adventure/horror game “Ib” (which is set in a mysterious art gallery), is now available for the Nintendo Switch via the Nintendo Eshop.
About the Game
This game is a remake of the 2D exploration-adventure title Ib, set in a creepy, mysterious art gallery and originally released as a free game in February 2012 by Japanese indie game developer, kouri.
Ib is made for the wider audience; regardless of how much experience you have with video games, this is an adventure that can be enjoyed by everyone. Players of the original free version will also notice the visual overhaul, as well as brand new elements not previously available.
Released earlier in 2022 on Steam for PC to overwhelmingly positive reviews, we are thrilled to bring this title to the Nintendo Switch.
Ib Nintendo eShop page: https://www.nintendo.com/store/products/ib-switch/
Story
A young girl named Ib visits an art gallery with her parents.
While perusing the various works of art, Ib suddenly realises that she is alone.
As she searches for someone – anyone – else, the museum begins to change…
System
Take control of Ib, a young girl who finds herself alone and trapped in a mysterious art gallery.
Gameplay revolves around exploring your surroundings, collecting items, and solving puzzles.
There are also multiple different endings to unlock based on your actions and choices in this mysterious gallery.
New Features in the Remake
The remake of Ib features additions and optimizations that make this a must-play for both existing fans who played the original free game and new players alike, all while maintaining the original concept of “making the game enjoyable even for players who are new to video games”.
Moreover, almost all graphics for maps, characters and stills are improved along with the addition of all-new and re-designed pieces of artwork. Also brand new puzzles, effects, and tricks that were not present in the original have been added in the remake.
■ Conversation System
You can now enjoy conversations with the accompanying characters while trying to escape from the gallery. They may even give you hints if you get stuck.
■ Zoom Mode
A zoom mode is now available which makes it easier to spot small items and view pieces of artwork in greater detail. It is also possible to stay in zoom mode until the end of the game (some scenes cannot be zoomed or will be forced to zoom).
About PLAYISM
Japan’s oldest indie publisher, PLAYISM is known in the West for supporting popular indie games such as Gnosia, Idol Manager, Tasomachi: Behind the Twilight, Touhou Luna Nights, Fight Crab, Record of Lodoss War -Deedlit in Wonder Labyrinth-, the La-Mulana series, Bright Memory, Bright Memory: Infinite, and DEEEER Simulator among other titles.
PLAYISM’s motto is “Bringing a Different Breed of Indie Game to the World”.
To learn more, visit the PLAYISM official website and follow @PlayismEN on Twitter.
■ Developer: kouri (Twitter)
■ Publisher: PLAYISM
■ Official Homepage: https://kouri.kuchinawa.com/game_01.html
■ Official PLAYISM Page: https://playism.com/en/game/ib/
■ Nintendo eShop: https://www.nintendo.com/store/products/ib-switch/
■ Official Trailer (Nintendo Switch Version): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EAm_u37XTkk
■ Genre: Horror, Exploration, Adventure
■ Platform: Nintendo Switch
■ Release Date: March 9, 2023
■ MSRP: $14.99
■ No. of Players: 1
■ IARC Rating: 12+
■ Supported Languages: EFIGS, Japanese, Korean, Simplified Chinese, Traditional Chinese
Jonas “O.J” Ek
The Gaming Ground
Twitter: @TheGamingGround
More by Jonas Ek:
Tags: 2D, Adventure, Exploration, Horror, Ib Remake, Indie games, kouri, Nintendo Switch, Playism, Retro games