Planet of Lana II, the sequel to the critically acclaimed 2023 indie hit, has arrived, offering a visually stunning and emotionally resonant experience. Developed by Wishfully and published by Thunderful Publishing, the game isn’t necessarily aimed at hardcore gamers, but rather at those who appreciate intricate puzzles and compelling narratives. Released on March 5, 2026, for Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Windows, Xbox One and Xbox Series X/S, Planet of Lana II builds upon the foundation of its predecessor, expanding the story and introducing new mechanics.
The game follows Lana, now a few years older and more responsible, as she cares for the rambunctious toddler Anua. Their peaceful existence is disrupted when Anua comes into contact with a mysterious piece of debris, causing her to begin glowing with an otherworldly light. Lana embarks on a quest to find exotic ingredients for a cure, a journey that quickly escalates from a personal mission to one entangled with a larger conflict involving the Dijinghala clan and their exploitation of newfound technology. The narrative attempts to blend intimate character moments with a broader, more epic scope, creating a dynamic that is both engaging and thought-provoking.
Expanding on a Beloved Formula
Planet of Lana was praised for its hand-painted visuals and unique storytelling, despite some gameplay shortcomings. Wishfully, having spent years crafting the original’s aesthetic and narrative, responded to the demand for a sequel surprisingly quickly. Creative director Adam Stjärnljus noted that Planet of Lana II is a more ambitious project, with a game length that is double that of the original. The developers had to remove content during the alpha build to maintain a focused experience, demonstrating a commitment to quality over quantity.
Gameplay in Planet of Lana II remains rooted in the 2.5D side-scrolling puzzle-platforming genre. Lana is now more agile, capable of wall jumping, dashing, and sliding, adding new layers to the exploration and puzzle-solving. Crucially, the game continues to emphasize the symbiotic relationship between Lana and her feline companion, Mui. Mui’s abilities have been expanded; she can now hack into machines and briefly control other creatures, opening up creative puzzle solutions. Lana herself can explore underwater environments, further diversifying the gameplay.
A Mature Lana and a Growing World
The sequel portrays Lana as a more mature and confident character, reflecting her increased responsibilities. She’s no longer simply reacting to events but actively shaping them. This growth is mirrored in the game’s narrative, which explores themes of responsibility, conflict, and the consequences of technological advancement. The introduction of the Dijinghala clan adds a layer of complexity, presenting a moral gray area and forcing players to consider the implications of their actions.
The game’s developers at Wishfully have focused on creating “epic moments” alongside the intricate puzzles, aiming for a more dynamic and engaging experience. Gameplay footage showcased during the ID@Xbox x IGN Showcase 2025 highlighted the expanded mechanics and the interplay between Lana and Mui. The ability for Mui to hypnotize creatures, for example, adds a unique twist to the puzzle-solving process.
Planet of Lana II is being developed using the Unity engine.
Is it for You?
Planet of Lana II appears to be a game that prioritizes atmosphere, story, and puzzle design over fast-paced action. It’s a title that invites players to immerse themselves in its beautiful world and unravel its mysteries. While it builds upon the foundation of the original, it also introduces new mechanics and expands the scope of the narrative, making it a compelling experience for both returning fans and newcomers. The game is designed for those who enjoy a thoughtful and emotionally engaging experience, rather than solely those seeking a challenging gaming experience.
What comes next for Wishfully remains to be seen, but the success of both Planet of Lana and its sequel suggests a bright future for the Swedish studio.
Have you had a chance to play Planet of Lana II? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
