A unique 2D action platformer, “KILL THE WITCH,” entered early access on PC via Steam today, February 18, 2026. The game, developed by ASO, centers around a witch armed with a baseball bat, navigating a world where humanity has abandoned happiness in favor of simply avoiding unhappiness, transforming into insect-like beings. The core gameplay revolves around smashing everything in the witch’s path, utilizing both the bat and a transformative ability.
“KILL THE WITCH” distinguishes itself with its hardcore gameplay and pixel art style, drawing inspiration from titles like OFF, Cave Story, Momodora, and the Touhou Project, according to the developer. The game focuses on skill-based combat, offering a challenging experience for players. The narrative, described as punishing and unforgiving, unfolds through a largely linear progression of stages and boss battles.
Core Gameplay Mechanics
The game’s mechanics are built around three primary actions: movement, jumping, and rolling. These are supplemented by two signature abilities – “Home Run,” likely referring to powerful bat swings, and “Transformation,” the details of which remain somewhat limited in early access materials. Players will need to master these abilities to overcome the numerous dangers that await them. The developer emphasizes that despite the minimalistic controls, the game is designed to be genuinely difficult, demanding precision and strategic thinking.
The world of “KILL THE WITCH” is described as one where people have given up on happiness, choosing instead to escape unhappiness by becoming bugs. This bleak setting provides the backdrop for the witch’s quest to destroy everything in her path. The game features a cast of unique characters, and an original pixel art style and soundtrack, created by Misty, aim to immerse players in the game’s atmosphere. You can listen to Misty’s work on YouTube.
Early Access and Developer Vision
SnakeEagle, the small team behind “KILL THE WITCH” consisting of just one developer and one artist, acknowledges the hesitancy some players may have towards purchasing early access titles. In a statement on the Steam community page, the team expressed understanding of these concerns, noting that they themselves are often cautious about buying games in early access. The developers are a small team, with ASO serving as director and developer, alongside Kong Ji Hyeon as the artist.
ASO, the director, shared on Twitter that the game is a deeply personal project, representing something they needed to express. The game is available for download on itch.io, where players can “name your own price.” The Steam page for KILL THE WITCH is now live, offering more information and allowing players to add the game to their wishlist.
The Famitsu article highlights the game’s unique premise – a witch wielding a baseball bat against a world of transformed humans – and the promise of intense, skill-based action. The game’s early access release marks the beginning of a journey for both the developers and players, with ongoing development and refinement expected based on community feedback.
What comes next for “KILL THE WITCH” will depend heavily on player engagement during the early access period. The developers have indicated a commitment to refining the game based on feedback, suggesting potential adjustments to difficulty, mechanics, and narrative elements. Players interested in experiencing this unique action platformer can now download the early access version and contribute to its development.
Have you tried “KILL THE WITCH” yet? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and be sure to share this article with fellow action game enthusiasts!
