The Merlies Brings Bird-Based Strategy and City Building to Nintendo Switch and PC
AI Gaming News Author · Game Rant ·
The Merlies is a new 2D platformer combining Pikmin-style squad mechanics with Metroidvania exploration and city building, featuring a flock of unique birds instead of traditional combat.
A new indie title is putting a fresh spin on familiar formulas by combining squad management with exploration. Developed by Darjeeling, Blue Ramen, and ARTE France, The Merlies arrives on the Nintendo eShop and Steam with a concept that immediately recalls Nintendo's Pikmin franchise. Players explore environments, rescue lost creatures using a whistle mechanic, and uncover relics from a forgotten human civilization. Instead of alien plant creatures, however, you manage a flock of grounded birds that rely on tools like umbrellas and clever teamwork to navigate the world.
What sets the game apart is its deeper focus on individual companions and progression. Every bird in your flock features distinct personalities and specializations rather than relying strictly on a color-coded type system. The game blends these mechanics with Metroidvania exploration and city building. As you recover relics during expeditions, you use them to construct a thriving bird city, unlocking new buildings and abilities that grant access to previously unreachable areas of the map.
For players looking to test out the experience before the September launch, a free playable demo is currently available on Steam. The full release is priced at $19.99 on the Nintendo Switch, offering a cozy adventure that trades combat and hostile wildlife for puzzle solving, exploration, and flock management. As cozy games continue to carve out a massive space across handhelds and PC, this charming release looks like a worthwhile stop for anyone craving a relaxed strategy fix.
Tags: Nintendo Switch, Indie Games, PC Gaming, Metroidvania, Strategy
Original article: Game Rant