Order of the Sinking Star, the latest puzzle game from The Witness developer Thekla Inc, is set to release on October 8th, 2026, for Nintendo Switch 2, PlayStation 5, and Windows PC. This highly anticipated title, helmed by Braid creator Jonathan Blow, promises over 500 hours of gameplay, centered around interconnected puzzles inspired by indie Sokoban games like Mirror Isles, Promesst, and Heroes of Sokoban. The game's release date announcement coincides with a recent update on the game's credits, which has been a subject of controversy since its announcement.
The game's structure is divided into three main layers. The early game focuses on discovering and understanding puzzle mechanics, similar to The Witness, allowing players to learn how to manipulate the environment, such as pushing rocks, traveling through mirrors, and building stone bridges. This foundational layer sets the stage for the more complex challenges that lie ahead.
The mid-game introduces a clear progression hook, where players must find and clear specific rooms to reach a final puzzle. This phase emphasizes the combination of learned puzzle mechanics to solve intricate problems. Despite the daunting 500-hour estimate, Blow assures players that there's a clear ending, allowing them to stop after completing over 1,000 puzzles. The late game, while more advanced, remains a closely guarded secret by Blow.
However, the game's credits have been a point of contention. Some developers, including Mirror Isles creator Alan Hazelden, have distanced themselves from the project due to Blow's controversial social media posts, particularly regarding the COVID-19 pandemic and vaccines. Initially, there was confusion over the credits, as Hazelden's name was absent in the Steam Next Fest demo. Blow's response was vague, stating that contributors would be credited, but he was reluctant to provide further details.
In a follow-up communication, a PR representative confirmed that the game will indeed feature full credits, including the names of the developers who contributed to the licensed games. These credits will be presented in a unique, Jonathan Blow-style manner, both in-game and in press materials, ensuring proper recognition for the developers' efforts. Despite the initial controversy, the game's release date and credits update provide a positive outlook for players eager to embark on this ambitious puzzle journey.
