Last August, NIS America announced it would publish Starbites in the West during early 2026; today, the publisher confirmed the release window by revealing a May 2026 launch date for the IKINAGAMES-developed sci-fi JRPG. This Western version will be available for PC, PlayStation 5, Switch 2, Switch, and Xbox Series. The game originally launched in Japan during October 2025, without a Switch 2 version.
In Starbites, you uncover the truth beneath the sands of Bitter with Lukida and her allies. Bitter is a desert planet ravaged by an interstellar war. When a young salvager (Lukida) tries to escape to the stars, a sudden attack by a giant robot changes her course, her life, and the fate of Bitter — forever.
The turn-based battle system is easy to learn and satisfying to master. You use a trusty Motorbot to explore the landscape. Build up your parties and kit out your Motorbot, then head to the deserts. Somewhere beneath the dunes, the truth of the events of 45 years ago is hidden.
Here are the game’s key features, via NIS America:
- Fracture Your Foes – Learn your enemies’ weaknesses, then Fracture their guard and dish out the damage in classic, turn-based RPG gameplay that’s easy to pick up, and hard to put down. Take extra turns with Driver’s High to really turn the tables!
- Ride High on your Motorbot – Every character has a personal Motorbot that’s suited to their own personality and battle style. Lukida rides high in her slingshot-wielding robot, while Gwendoll cruises along in her flashy hoverbike.
- Secrets Beneath the Dunes – The sands of Bitter hide many secrets. Uncover the truth in this gripping story of regret, revenge, and forgiveness.
A limited edition of Starbites is available through the NIS America Online Store. It includes a copy of the game, an art book, a soundtrack CD, an acrylic stand, three rubber keychains, and six metal pins, all contained in a collector’s box.
Developed by IKINAGAMES and published in the West by NIS America, Starbites will be released for PC via Steam, PlayStation 5, Switch 2, Switch, and Xbox Series on May 21.
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