Tarsier Studios Reveals More of REANIMAL, Confirms Q1 2026 Launch

Tarsier Studios, the acclaimed developer behind Little Nightmares and Little Nightmares II, has unveiled new details and a haunting trailer for their upcoming title REANIMAL. The studio officially confirmed that the game is now scheduled to release in Q1 2026 on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S, shifting slightly from its original 2025 release target announced during Gamescom 2024.

Although REANIMAL signals a departure from the Little Nightmares IP, it is unmistakably a product of Tarsier’s eerie design philosophy. The visual tone and psychological tension evoke familiar vibes, but REANIMAL introduces new dynamics that elevate the experience beyond the studio’s previous work.

Set in a sinister aquatic world, the story follows two children navigating treacherous waters in a small boat, haunted by mysterious entities both above and below the surface. The isolated setting heightens the fear factor, creating a chilling atmosphere filled with suspense and creeping dread.

What sets REANIMAL apart is its more dynamic gameplay. Unlike the primarily stealth-based mechanics of Little Nightmares, this new title introduces melee combat elements—glimpsed briefly in the new trailer—suggesting players may now have limited means to confront threats head-on, adding another layer of tension and strategy to exploration and survival.

The trailer also hints at a broader narrative scope and possibly a more interactive world. From grotesque sea creatures to the desolate yet beautiful environments, REANIMAL appears to be Tarsier’s most ambitious project yet. The decision to include the Nintendo Switch 2 among launch platforms suggests that the game is being optimized for next-gen handheld experiences as well.

While Tarsier Studios hasn’t yet locked down an exact release date, the new Q1 2026 window gives fans something concrete to anticipate. As the studio moves beyond the shadows of Little Nightmares, REANIMAL may mark a bold new era for one of horror gaming's most creative voices.

Are you ready to set sail into REANIMAL’s shadowy waters? Let us know your thoughts and if you’re excited for Tarsier’s next horror journey!