Pre-orders for the physical edition begin today
~ A special edition bundling the original “Culdcept” remaster and more will also be released simultaneously ~
Neos Corporation (Headquarters: Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo; President and CEO: Masashi Ikeda; hereinafter “the Company”), a subsidiary of Tecmira Holdings, is pleased to announce the worldwide simultaneous release of the Nintendo Switch 2 and Nintendo Switch software title [Culdcept BEGINS] (hereinafter “the title”) on July 16. Pre-orders will begin sequentially at various retailers.
Additionally, a PC version for the “Steam” platform is planned for release, and its store page (link) has opened today.
This title is the first full-fledged new entry in the popular Culdcept series in a decade. Since its development by Omiya Soft Co., Ltd. (hereafter Omiya Soft) in 1997, the series has expanded across multiple platforms and surpassed cumulative shipments of 1 million units (including download versions). Its unique game system, blending the accessibility of board games with the strategic depth of card games, has captivated a passionate fanbase for over a quarter-century
The same gameplay experience, but an evolved Culdcept
This title unfolds an original story depicting the prequel to the series’ first installment, “Culdcept”. Under the full supervision of Omiya Soft, all designs—from cards (stone tablets) and maps to the world setting—have been completely revamped. Character and creature designs are by Satoshi Matsuura, renowned for his work on numerous popular titles. His distinctive art vividly brings to life the stage of this game, the continent of Bavrashka, where diverse races coexist and varied cultures and values thrive.
The game features over 400 distinct cards. The diverse combinations of these cards generate infinite strategies that sway the tide of battle. Furthermore, the UI has been thoroughly redesigned for easier grasp of the battle situation and advantage. This design ensures intuitive enjoyment not only for series fans but also for new players.
■Play solo or with friends. Diverse modes to suit your playstyle
Alongside the single-player “Story Mode,” the game features a “Versus Mode” where you hone your skills against AI opponents. The “Online Versus” mode lets you battle players worldwide. It includes the ability to create and join custom “Versus Rooms” for specific matches, plus a new “Quick Match” feature for finding opponents more easily. This ensures smooth multiplayer enjoyment for everyone from beginners to veterans.
■The comfortable shared experience unique to the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition
The Nintendo Switch 2 Edition now supports “GameShare” and “Mouse Function.” Using the “GameShare” feature, you can play cooperatively or competitively with up to four players, including Nintendo Switch 2 and Nintendo Switch users who don’t own this game. Additionally, support for mouse function enables more intuitive and smoother gameplay.
| Software received via GameShare can only be played while GameShare is active.
For details about GameShare, please visit the Nintendo website (https://www.nintendo.com/jp/hardware/switch2/gameshare/index.html). Online play on Nintendo Switch 2 and Nintendo Switch requires a paid subscription to Nintendo Switch Online. |
A limited-quantity “Deluxe Edition” bundled with deluxe bonuses is also available now!
In addition to the standard edition, we’ve prepared a limited-quantity “Deluxe Edition” packed with deluxe bonuses celebrating the series’ origins.
*Please note that this is a limited-quantity item and may sell out.
【Bonus 1】: Nintendo Switch “Culdcept: The First” (Physical Edition)
This is a remastered edition of the very first title in the Culdcept series. As a limited bonus included with the deluxe edition, it will be available in advance of its planned standalone release at a later date.
(Please refer to the details at the end of this release.)
【Bonus 2】: Culdcept BEGINS Complete Card Book
This official art and reference book features a complete collection of the imaginative and vibrant creatures illustrated by the game’s lead designer, Satoshi Matsuura. It also includes delicately rendered concept art and in-depth commentary that further explores the world of the Bavrashka Continent, making it an essential volume for fans.
【Bonus 3】: Soundtrack CD & Download Code
Renowned game music studio Noisycroak, known for producing numerous iconic soundtracks, brings the game’s epic narrative and strategic battles to life. This collection of grand and beautiful tracks that heighten the intensity of battle is presented as a premium CD for collectors, along with a digital download that can be enjoyed anytime, anywhere.
| Images are for illustrative purposes only. Specifications are subject to change. |
＜Early Purchase Bonus＞
Customers who purchase the physical editions (Standard Edition or Deluxe Edition) or the digital edition during the early purchase period will be eligible to receive a special Early Purchase Bonus downloadable content.
Further details will be announced in a future update. Please look forward to more information.
Product Overview
- Release Date: Thursday, July 16, 2026
- Platforms: Nintendo Switch / Nintendo Switch 2 / Steam*
- Available Formats: Physical Edition / Digital Download
- Price:
- Nintendo Switch Standard Edition (Physical/Digital): ¥6,380 (tax included)
- Nintendo Switch Deluxe Edition (Physical only): ¥12,980 (tax included)
- Nintendo Switch 2 Edition – Standard (Physical/Digital): ¥7,480 (tax included)
- Nintendo Switch 2 Edition – Deluxe (Physical only): ¥14,080 (tax included)
- Nintendo Switch 2 Edition Upgrade Pass (Digital only): ¥1,100 (tax included)
- Number of Players: 1–4
- Genre: Board & Card Game
- Supported Languages (Text): Japanese, English, Korean, Traditional Chinese, Simplified Chinese
- Rating: CERO (rating pending)
- Sales Region: Worldwide
・Culdcept Begins Official Website:：https://game.neoscorp.jp/culdcept_begins/
・Culdcept Begins Official X (formerly Twitter)：https://x.com/Culdcept_Neos
The release date and pricing for the Steam version have not yet been determined.
For pricing outside Japan, please refer to the official website.
© Omiya Soft. ©Neos Corporation.
Culdcept is a trademark of Omiyasoft Co., Ltd.
≪Story≫
The Book of Creation, Culdcept, was created by the goddess Culdra. Those who wield its fragments—mystic tablets known as Culds —are called Cepters.
A young boy named Kamur transfers to the the Royal Cept Academy, where Cepters from across the realm gather. Recognized for his exceptional potential, Kamur is selected to join the kingdom’s Royal Cepter Guard Regiment.
In the midst of a fierce conflict that threatens the entire continent, Kamur grows as a Cepter and ultimately undergoes a true awakening.
≪Game System≫
A simple set of rules lets players move around the board by rolling dice and expand their territories using cards. Will you collect tolls from rivals, or seize their lands through battle? The intense struggle for dominance keeps every moment thrilling.
Develop your territories and accumulate the required amount of magic power to claim victory! Enjoy a uniquely deep experience that blends the luck of the dice with the strategy of card play, a hallmark of this title.
≪Cards (Tablets)≫
There are approximately 400 different cards available in the game. Choose 40 cards from the three categories below to create your own Book (deck) tailored to your preferences and strategy. Discover your favorite combinations and aim to build your ultimate Book.
- Creature Cards:
Cards that summon creatures. They can be used to expand your own territories or capture your opponent’s lands. Each creature belongs to one of five attributes and possesses unique abilities. - Item Cards:
Cards that support your creatures in battle. They do more than simply enhance attack or defense—by making use of their special abilities, you can turn the tide even in unfavorable situations. - Spell Cards:
Cards that shape the flow of the game and sometimes corner your opponents. When used skillfully, they can dramatically shift the course of a match and are indispensable for achieving victory.
The Original Culdcept Returns!！Nintendo Switch title “Culdcept: The First” officially announced!
Originally released for the Sega Saturn in 1997 and captivating players everywhere, the very first entry in the Culdcept series returns on Nintendo Switch, now enhanced with convenient new features. The release date is set for Thursday, July 30, 2026, with pre-orders opening sequentially starting today. For more details, please visit the official website below.
- Release Date: Thursday, July 30, 2026
- Platform: Nintendo Switch
- Available Formats: Physical Edition / Digital Download
- Price:
- Nintendo Switch Standard Edition (Physical/Digital): ¥4,950 (tax included)
- Nintendo Switch Special Edition (Physical only): ¥8,800 (tax included)
- Number of Players: 1–4
- Genre: Board & Card Game
- Supported Languages (Text): Japanese only
- New Features:
- Quick Save & Load: In addition to in-game saves, you can suspend and resume play anytime, anywhere
- Rewind Function: A rewind feature that lets you return to a previous scene, encouraging fearless experimentatio
- Official Site – Culdcept: The First:
https://game.neoscorp.jp/culdcept_the_first/index.htmlCopyright © 1997, 2026 Omiya Soft / © 2026 CITY CONNECTION CO., LTD.
Music: Copyright © 1997 Yuzo Koshiro
Published by © Neos CorporationCuldcept is a trademark of Omiyasoft Co., Ltd.Neos Corporation will continue to deliver game content enjoyed by users around the world across a wide variety of platforms.
About Tecmira Holdings
[Company name] Tecmira Holdings Co., Ltd.