The Perfect Pencil receives Nintendo Switch release date, new trailer

We’ve been waiting awhile to hear about when The Perfect Pencil would be coming to Nintendo Switch, but the release date is now set. Studio Cima is bringing it out on January 29, 2026.

The Perfect Pencil was announced for Nintendo Switch at the start of 2022. The story-driven action platformer has players going on a psychological odyssey where curiosity and choices are the only way out of the mind’s darkest corners.

Learn more about the game via the following overview:

Set in a surreal hand-drawn world, The Perfect Pencil tells a story of personal development and the psychological weight of fear. Join the protagonist John as he awakens in a bizarre kingdom and comes face-to-face with the terrors that dwell in his inner psyche. Embark on an emotional odyssey exploring the depths of an unfamiliar environment using John’s innate ability to see things that others can’t.

John’s unique analysis ability grants you the power to uncover hidden information about The Perfect Pencil’s characters, objects and elements of the environment. The world is filled with additional lore and information to be discovered. Roam beyond the beaten path, absorb the space around you. Who knows? Behind one of these corners, you might find something that will change your perspective on life itself.

Witness John’s potent internal struggles through intense boss battles in the form of monstrous manifestations, each symbolizing unique elements of the human psyche. Some encounters may even make you question your sense of reality. Remember – survival requires risk, and with great risk comes great reward.

Key Features

• Born from Personal Experience: The game is an allegorical journey inspired by the creator’s real-life battle with anxiety. It amplifies subconscious struggles, acting as a mirror for players to confront their own fears.
• A Hand-Crafted Kingdom: An entirely hand-drawn world where every detail hides a meaning. It invites players to use their wit and spirit of observation to uncover secrets that change their perspective.
• Weird, Dark, & Funny: A tone that swings effortlessly between psychological depth and bizarre humor, creating a “what did I just see?” energy that keeps players hooked.
• A Massive, Branching Adventure: A substantial journey (20+ hours, up to 30 for completionists) where your choices matter. The narrative branches based on exploration and decisions, leading to multiple distinct outcomes.

See a new release date trailer for The Perfect Pencil below.

Release Date Trailer

The game will be sold as a digital download. You can access more Nintendo Switch coverage here.