Hirogami Unfolds a New Era of Action Platforming with Origami-Inspired Gameplay
Hirogami is an upcoming 3D action platformer that uniquely blends the ancient Japanese art of origami with dynamic gameplay mechanics. Developed by Bandai Namco Studios Singapore and published by Kakehashi Games, the game is set to release on PC via Steam on September 3, 2025.
Transformative Gameplay Inspired by Origami
At the heart of Hirogami lies the concept of transformation, drawing directly from the art of origami. Players control Hiro, an enigmatic performer from Shishiki village, who can fold into various animal forms, each offering distinct abilities. For instance, the armadillo form allows Hiro to roll through obstacles and enemies, the ape form enables powerful ground pounds and vine swings, and the frog form provides enhanced jumping capabilities. This mechanic not only enriches combat but also introduces innovative puzzle-solving elements, as players must choose the appropriate form to navigate challenges.
A Fragile Paper World Under Siege
The game’s narrative unfolds in a world crafted entirely from paper, where a digital Blight threatens the delicate balance of the origami ecosystem. Hiro’s mission is to cleanse this corruption, restoring harmony to the environment. The paper-crafted world is not just a visual aesthetic but a core aspect of gameplay, influencing movement, combat, and puzzle mechanics. For example, Hiro can transform into a sheet of paper to slide under traps or become a paper plane to traverse wide gaps.
A Soundtrack That Resonates
Complementing the game’s visual and gameplay elements is its soundtrack, composed using traditional Japanese instruments and styles. This auditory backdrop enhances the emotional depth of the game, evoking themes of nostalgia, fragility, and beauty. The music adapts to various settings and scenarios, ensuring that each area and encounter feels unique and immersive.
Development Roots and Inspirations
Hirogami is developed by Bandai Namco Studios Singapore, a team known for their work on titles like Tekken 7 and Ace Combat 7. The game’s development was influenced by the team’s desire to create a fresh, aesthetically pleasing experience that harkens back to the simplicity and joy of classic platformers. The decision to incorporate origami was driven by its representation of calmness and fragility, aligning with the game’s themes and gameplay mechanics.
Origami Warrior
Building on its artistic roots and innovative mechanics, Hirogami promises to be more than just a visually unique experience—it’s a showcase of how cultural storytelling can shape modern gameplay. Each origami transformation isn’t merely a gimmick; it’s thoughtfully integrated into both exploration and combat. Players must constantly shift strategies, using forms like the swift fox for speed-based challenges or the rhino for breaking through enemy defenses. This adaptive approach encourages replayability and deeper mastery of the game’s systems.
Visually, the game’s origami world is a standout. Environments fold, ripple, and react like real paper, creating a tactile feel uncommon in most 3D platformers. Combined with particle effects that mimic ink splashes and folded creases, Hirogami feels like a moving piece of art. The development team has emphasized that almost every asset in the game was designed using actual paper models before being translated into 3D, adding authenticity to its aesthetic.
With its September 3, 2025, release approaching, Hirogami stands out as one of the most imaginative and culturally enriched titles of the year—offering players a chance to unfold a story that’s as heartfelt as it is handcrafted.
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