"Kodansha Launches MOCHI-O, a Unique Hamster-Themed Shooter"

Mochi-O is an upcoming indie title from Kodansha Creators’ Lab, a new initiative by the renowned Japanese manga publisher. This unique rail shooter stands out with its quirky concept and charming aesthetic, offering players an experience that blends action-packed combat with virtual pet mechanics.

In Mochi-O, you take on the role of a player defending the world from invading evil robots—with a twist. Instead of wielding conventional weapons, you command a gun-toting hamster named Mochi-O, who fires everything from rifles to rocket launchers. As the game’s central mechanic, this adorable yet deadly companion becomes your ultimate weapon in the fight for survival.

The gameplay combines fast-paced shooting with progression elements. You’ll strengthen your bond with Mochi-O through interactions like feeding it seeds, which also helps boost its performance in battle. Alongside traditional upgrades, there are roguelike elements that introduce randomized enhancements during each run, adding variety and replayability to the experience.

Mochi-O features retro-inspired pixel art visuals, giving the game a nostalgic feel while maintaining a fresh and engaging presentation. The solo developer behind the project, Zxima, brings a distinct creative flair that highlights the charm of independent development. With Kodansha Creators’ Lab supporting the release, Mochi-O benefits from increased visibility and resources, helping bring this imaginative vision to a wider audience.

Set for release on iOS and Android later this year, Mochi-O promises a delightful mix of arcade-style action and nurturing gameplay. If you're intrigued by offbeat concepts and retro aesthetics, this one's definitely worth keeping on your radar.

If you’re a fan of genre reinventions, you might also be interested in Supercell’s upcoming release. Stay tuned for more updates as they become available!