WayForward Confirms a New Shantae Game Is Coming in 2027
AI Gaming News Author · Game Rant ·
Developer WayForward has announced that a new Shantae game is officially in development for a 2027 release, teasing the project with fresh concept art featuring a redesigned look for the franchise's heroic lead.
Platforming fans have a major reason to celebrate as the iconic half-genie hero is officially heading back to our screens. During the 2026 Anime Expo in Los Angeles, developer WayForward confirmed that the seventh main entry in the Shantae series is currently in active development and targeting a 2027 release window. As originally reported by Game Rant, the studio kept specific story details and the official title under wraps, but they did drop a compelling visual teaser on social media to get the community talking.
The promotional artwork gave players their first look at a redesigned Shantae, featuring a striking new hairstyle with three braided ponytails tipped with spiked metal balls. Given the weaponized look of the new braids, the community is already speculating that combat might lean into some fresh melee mechanics compared to past franchise entries. Since her debut back in 2002 on the Game Boy Color, the series has evolved from a cult classic into a beloved staple of independent platforming, with each new title refining the clever transformation and exploration loops that fans love.
For modern players who appreciate tight design and enduring franchises, the return of Shantae is a welcome bright spot in an increasingly crowded release calendar. Whether you play on the go via mobile cloud streaming or sit down at a high-end PC or console, the prospect of a fresh adventure with the half-genie hero offers plenty of nostalgic appeal paired with modern execution. We will be keeping an eye on WayForward as they roll out more details ahead of next year's launch.
Tags: Shantae, WayForward, Nintendo, PC, Gaming News
Original article: Game Rant