Many indie studios have tried to replicate Pokémon’s formula, but few have actually cracked the code. In 2023, Bytten Studio got it right with Cassette Beasts, mainly because it had something to add to the mix and wasn’t entirely built on nostalgia. Now, the developers aim to take it to the next level with Cassette Beasts 2002.
Yes, the just-announced sequel will take us to the early 21st century in London, although its first trailer – which you can watch below – teases an adventure across two different worlds and more than a few twists.
There’s a healthy dose of Digimon in there too, of course, but I’m inclined to say Bytten has a firm grasp on how to deliver something that speaks for itself. Moreover, it’s been confirmed this RPG will launch with cross-platform multiplayer from the get-go via its Steam page. As confirmed by the trailer, it’s coming to PC, PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and Nintendo Switch 2.
“After arriving in a quiet neighbourhood of London, you soon find yourself pulled down a rabbit hole to Nodnol, a land of beasts and high strangeness that exists in the shadow of our own,” the official description reads.
Once again, Cassette Beasts’ impressive fusion system is at the centre of the experience, with “over 57,000+ powerful and fully-animated fusion forms” available in the sequel. 12 companions can also be met, recruited, and even romanced, with “their own motivations, stories, and gameplay perks” stacking on top of the monster-catching and turn-based combat. Publisher Raw Fury hasn’t revealed a release window yet, but more details are coming “over the next few months”.