Once Upon a Katamari is set to delight fans as the Katamari Damacy franchise returns with its first brand-new entry in 14 years, launching worldwide on October 24, 2025, for Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. Announced during today’s Nintendo Direct Partner Showcase, the new title promises to blend classic, quirky Katamari gameplay with inventive mechanics and fresh multiplayer options—all while transporting players through captivating eras in history.
After more than a decade focused on remasters and mobile spin-offs, Katamari’s return in Once Upon a Katamari brings a completely original storyline. The setup is true to the franchise’s absurd charm: the King of All Cosmos, in a moment of cosmic mischief, accidentally destroys Earth along with its stars. To fix his blunder, players—taking control of the iconic Prince—must travel through time, rolling up objects from the Jurassic Period, the Ice Age, historic Japan, and more to rebuild the twinkling sky.
What’s New in Once Upon a Katamari?
Bandai Namco has packed the latest installment with standout features for both longtime enthusiasts and newcomers:
- Time-Travel Stages: Instead of sticking to a modern or abstract setting, levels are inspired by famous moments in history, offering wildly different visuals, challenges, and objects to collect.
- Power-Ups & Gadgets: Players can now use special tools—like a magnet to pull in distant items, and a timer to freeze objects—adding strategy and excitement to familiar gameplay.
- Customization: The Prince and each of his 68 cousins are fully customizable, with options for colors, faces, and more. A “Young King” skin is available for players with saves from previous Katamari remasters.
- Multiplayer Modes: The new KatamariBall mode allows up to four players (online or offline) to compete, racing to create the biggest Katamari within a time limit. This marks the series’ most feature-rich multiplayer to date.
- Soundtrack: A mix of classic tracks and new compositions by returning and fresh artists—including songs from musicians featured in beloved anime soundtracks—guarantees a signature, catchy Katamari vibe.
Key Information at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Release Date | October 24, 2025 |
| Platforms | Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X |
| Number of Cousins | 69 (all playable and customizable) |
| New Modes | KatamariBall (4-player online/offline competitive mode) |
| Power-Ups | Magnet, timer, more |
| Save Data Unlocks | Young King playable if you own previous remasters |
| Special Editions | Deluxe “King of All Sounds” with 60 songs and 26 costumes from past games |
| Developer/Publisher | Bandai Namco Entertainment |
Community Reactions and Pre-Order Bonuses
Enthusiasm from fans erupted online following the announcement, with many celebrating the franchise’s whimsical spirit and the promise of new experiences after years of remasters. Players who pre-order Once Upon a Katamari can unlock exclusive customization items early, and two DLC packs have already been confirmed: one featuring classic Katamari music, and another packed with costumes from previous games.
Why Katamari Still Charms in 2025
Katamari’s blend of humor, accessible play, colorful graphics, and quirky music has carved out a place in gaming’s cultural landscape. By introducing time travel, new tools, and vibrant multiplayer options, Bandai Namco aims to welcome both returning fans and first-timers for a fresh, nostalgia-tinged journey.
The countdown is on for October 24—will you be ready to roll through history when Once Upon a Katamari launches? Share your excitement, favorite Katamari memories, or questions in the comments below, and stay tuned for more updates on this out-of-this-world adventure!