Trying out the new Metroidvania "Girl and Academy Castle" with a fun umbrella-powered gimmick. Aim for the peak of the academy city where girls live [TGS2025]
Note: the original Japanese article can be found at:
https://www.4gamer.net/games/943/G094386/20250928061/
Editorial Department: Akasaka | 2025/09/28 13:54 (UTC)
2P Games’ latest title, “Kotama & Academy Citadel,” was showcased at Tokyo Game Show 2025, so let me introduce it.
The demo booth for “Kotama & Academy Citadel” featured a logo based on the English title, which caused some confusion before finally finding the right spot. Thumbnail image No.001 / Enjoyable puzzle mechanics using an umbrella in new Metroidvania game “Kotama & Academy Citadel.” Aim to reach the peak of a school city inhabited by girls ［TGS2025］
This game is an action RPG in the Metroidvania style, developed by Atomstring Games. The story takes place in “Carmel,” a utopian academy city where cutting-edge technology has been gathered. Upon arriving as an exchange student, protagonist Tama finds herself entering an election to determine who will earn the highest honor at the school—the coveted “Carmel Star.”
The dean explains the situation to Tama. Both are girls with glasses, giving off a vibe reminiscent of a student council election. Thumbnail image No.002 / Enjoyable puzzle mechanics using an umbrella in new Metroidvania game “Kotama & Academy Citadel.” Aim to reach the peak of a school city inhabited by girls ［TGS2025］
While the main character’s outfit is flashy (or so it seems), general student attire appears more modest. Thumbnail image No.003 / Enjoyable puzzle mechanics using an umbrella in new Metroidvania game “Kotama & Academy Citadel.” Aim to reach the peak of a school city inhabited by girls ［TGS2025］
The boss battle background features hip-hop-style graffiti, suggesting the school might be more chaotic than expected. Thumbnail image No.004 / Enjoyable puzzle mechanics using an umbrella in new Metroidvania game “Kotama & Academy Citadel.” Aim to reach the peak of a school city inhabited by girls ［TGS2025］
In the meritocratic society of Carmel, enemy attacks are unforgiving. Tama fights using her umbrella as a weapon, battling eerie, sci-fi-themed foes. When you land several hits on an enemy, it enters a purple “Flow Cover” state—this is when you unleash your ultimate move, “Flow Burst,” dealing massive damage. This forms the core of combat.
The umbrella also serves defensive purposes, and can be used to glide through the air when opened—offering more than just offensive use. However, during this demo version, enemies were relatively sparse compared to the expansive field size, creating a somewhat empty atmosphere. While this might have been intentional, it’s still unclear exactly what the design goal was at this stage.
Additionally, the game’s world setting—where a school full of girls blends elements of science fiction and hip-hop—is another major highlight. Though many aspects remain unclear at this point, those intrigued are encouraged to check out the currently available trailer while keeping an eye out for future updates.