Quick Facts

  • Release Date: October 8, 2026
  • Platform: Nintendo Switch 2
  • New Features: Improved resolution, higher frame rates, and new Joy-Con mouse-style controls
  • DLC: 'Rolling LIVE Highlights' paid expansion launching same-day

Bandai Namco has confirmed that Once Upon A Katamari is headed to the Nintendo Switch 2. The title is set to roll onto the new console on October 8, 2026, bringing with it a suite of technical enhancements and new content.

Technical Upgrades and Controls

Players jumping into the Switch 2 version can expect improved resolution and higher frame rates compared to the original release. Furthermore, Bandai Namco is introducing a new control scheme that utilizes the Joy-Cons; players can 'roll' the controllers forwards, a mechanic described as similar to Drag x Drive.

While there is no upgrade path for players who already own the game on the original Switch, those users aren't being left entirely in the dark. A free update is planned to coincide with the Switch 2 launch, which will add the new mouse-style controls and enable increased frame rates for anyone playing the title on the newer hardware.

New DLC: 'Rolling LIVE Highlights'

Alongside the Switch 2 release, Bandai Namco will release the 'Rolling LIVE Highlights' paid DLC. This expansion pack includes:

  • 10 new quests
  • 12 new songs
  • 6 new cousins
  • 18 new accessories

Competitive Multiplayer and Customization

The Switch 2 version will feature a new competitive multiplayer mode called KatamariBall. In this mode, four players compete to roll the largest Katamari and convert its size into points within a limited time. The mode supports both online play and offline matches against CPU opponents.

Customization remains a core focus of the experience, with players able to control The Prince or any of the 68 available cousins. Each character can be customized with various facial features and colors. Gameplay also receives a mechanical boost with the addition of a new magnet tool, designed to help players pull in nearby items more efficiently.

Once Upon A Katamari previously earned an 8/10 score in our original Switch review, where we noted its success as a mainline sequel with an "irresistible game feel."