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Press release:
Wiesbaden, Germany – February 17th, 2026 – Assemble Entertainment, together with Norwegian indie developer Lugn Games, are delighted to announce Kioku: Last Summer, a cozy, story-driven adventure coming to PC via Steam 2026. A visually colorful, immersive, and challenging game where friendship and surprises come to life. Inspired by many classic titles, it weaves its own magical connections, creating an unforgettable experience! With fabulous animation and beautifully crafted story, it’s one not to miss! Play the Demo now on Steam and experience a summer that never seems to end.

LET THE ADVENTURE BEGIN!

Players take on the role of Asti, a lively and energetic newcomer ready to explore the island, form new friendships, and uncover the hidden mysteries of her new home. On the endearing island of Kioku, Asti and her father start a new life. Asti quickly makes friends – but Bo keeps his distance. Asti can’t help wondering why… As summer unfolds, the kids share laughter, adventures, and unforgettable memories, while Asti and Bo navigate tension and friendship. From the start to the end of summer, Asti meets many characters, discovering the magic of connection, the thrill of exploration, and the joy that comes from growing together on a summer-filled island.

SURPRISES AND CHALLENGES

The story unfolds day by day, with quest progression unlocking bringing fresh discoveries to each ‘in-game’ day. Completing quests reveals hidden areas, introduces new characters, and opens up unique activities that draw players deeper into the world of Kioku. Each magical day is filled with surprises, whether solving mysteries, uncovering secrets, or helping island residents with personal challenges ensuring the island feels alive, dynamic, and ever changing throughout Asti’s unforgettable summer adventure.

MINI GAMES!

Kioku features unique minigames that blend playful mechanics with collectible-driven progression, encouraging players to explore every corner of the island while collecting all varieties of Marubi and crabs.

Marubi is a marble-based minigame inspired by classic early-2000s trend toys and series such as Beyblade, Pokémon, and B-Daman. Each Marubi marble represents a unique monster with its own attributes and stats, adding layers of strategy, customization, and collection to the gameplay.

Crab Fishing offers a relaxing experience where players catch and collect a wide variety of crabs – some rarer than others. Occasionally, players may reel in a Crab Pot, a mysterious item sought after by the local fisherman. Trading these pots unlocks special items that aid in future quests and progression.

🏝️ Welcome to Kioku – the island of hidden wonders!

Kioku is a charming, beautiful secluded island a 45-minute ferry ride from the mainland, blending Scandinavian and Japanese culture. Every corner of Kioku brims with secrets waiting to be uncovered. Dash along winding paths, leap over sparkling streams, or sneak through shadowy groves, you’ll never know what mysteries might reveal themselves. From lush groves and towering mountains to hidden corners and quaint streets, the island invites exploration at your own pace, offering breathtaking views and secrets around every turn. Kioku’s mix of cultures and nature give it a distinctive, magical charm. Perhaps a magical surprise is waiting just for you…

Venture into Kioku’s many intriguing spots:

🏘 The Town – bustling streets, quirky shops, and whispers of untold stories.

⚓The Pier – where the waves sparkle with secrets and the horizon teases adventures beyond.

📚The School – a place of knowledge… and hidden curiosities lurking behind every corner.

🌲The Forest – a maze of towering trees, rustling leaves, and the occasional glimmer of enchantment.

⛰️Mt. Tin – climb if you dare, and you might find a view that changes the way you see Kioku forever.

🍎Jodd’s Apple Farm – sweet treats, playful animals, and perhaps a story or two tangled in the orchard.

🏝 Murt’s Island – a tiny isle with big mysteries, only reachable by those brave enough to cross the waters.

⛩️The Mysterious Shrine – ancient, quiet, and alive with whispers of the past… Some say the shrine has a mind of its own.

Every step you take on Kioku could lead to friendship, mischief, or magic as you unravel a story of friendship, change, and self-discovery and unearth hidden secrets as you explore the island at your own pace.

ABOUT LUGN GAMES
Lugn Games is a Norwegian indie studio based in the village of Reipå. The studio creates heartfelt, atmospheric games with a focus on emotional storytelling, artistic expression, and uplifting experiences. Lugn Games is currently developing its debut title, Kioku: Last Summer, scheduled for release in 2026.

ABOUT ASSEMBLE ENTERTAINMENT
Assemble Entertainment is an independent publisher based in Germany, best known for indie hits such as Sticky Business, Roadwarden, Decktamer, Paddle Paddle Paddle, Asgard’s Fall and the Endzone franchise. Since 2016, Assemble has released more than 50 games across different genres, including cozy, horror, strategy and roguelike, and has established itself as a trusted partner for bringing original indie projects to market.