Some of the oldest games had the unique feature of offering a co-op experience in which each player had a different set of abilities and function within the game. For those older games and even some modern titles that take this approach, the second player usually takes on a supportive role to the game’s main character. An even rarer system is shown off in the newest trailer for Orbitals. In it, the two players are given equal agency while having distinct abilities needed to progress.

The trailer follows game director Jakob Lundgren and creative director Marcos Ramos as they explain the core gameplay of Orbitals. The first section shows off how the players can help each other with one using the beam cannon to destroy obstacles and stabilize a drone while the second player platforms their way to the end. The section gets more involved when the first player needs to traverse on a moving platform to open up panels so the second player can continue to recharge the drone from the other side.

Some gameplay moments also require a more direct coordinated effort, such as when the two players need to steer a platform that turns based on where they stand. This highlights common co-op banter, with the players disagreeing and ultimately failing due to a lack of coordination before they laugh it off and try again. The last section of the trailer highlights the asymmetrical design even further by having both players take positions in the background and foreground. The two characters need to activate devices on the other side to allow their partner to proceed.

Orbitals has made many gamers excited over its art style and aesthetic. This hype has continued on with this gameplay trailer as many of the comments look forward to experiencing it through the new GameShare added by the developers for Switch 2. The game is set to release this summer.