Playdate Season Two Unveils New Games Including Subset’s Arcade Action Title

Playdate’s second season kicks off with 12 new games, including an arcade action title from Subset Games, available for pre-order at $39.

The second season of Playdate’s weekly game releases is set to begin on May 29, offering players two new games every week for six weeks. This season, unlike the first, comes with a price tag of $39 and is available for pre-order through the Playdate Catalog. Panic, the console’s creator, has teased a surprise element to this season, adding to the anticipation.

Highlighting the season’s lineup, Panic showcased four games during a recent presentation. Among them is Fulcrum Defender, a new arcade action game from Subset Games, known for FTL: Faster Than Light and Into The Breach. Players will use the Playdate’s crank to aim and shoot at increasingly complex enemy waves, with strategic upgrades key to survival.

Another notable title is Dig! Dig! Dino!, a relaxing puzzle game from the creators of Arco and Flinthook, where players dig for dinosaur bones and treasure to sell for upgrades. Pixel Ghost brings a remake of the classic Shadowgate to the Playdate, titled Shadowgate PD, featuring new music, art, and features.

The showcase also featured Taria & Como, a puzzle platformer focusing on swinging mechanics, developed with input from JuVee Productions. The game’s creator, Kip Henderson, aims to present a nuanced portrayal of disability, moving beyond traditional tropes.

Alongside the game announcements, Panic introduced a new yellow cover for the Playdate console, priced at $34, complementing the existing purple, blue, and pizza-themed options. The console’s price has recently increased to $229, though refurbished models may be available at the original $179 price point.