Double Fine, the studio behind the Psychonauts series, is preparing to release its latest title, Keeper, a puzzle adventure game featuring one of the most unusual protagonists in gaming. Players take control of a sentient, walking lighthouse accompanied by a curious and occasionally aggressive bird named Twig. Studio head Tim Schafer admitted that he has not conducted many press briefings lately, but said the team has leveraged Microsoft’s resources since the acquisition, allowing them to “make something weird.”
The game’s concept was created by Double Fine’s art director Lee Petty, who drew inspiration from his hiking experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic. This influence is evident in the rolling landscapes and surreal, painterly environments that the anthropomorphic lighthouse explores. Keeper features no spoken dialogue, relying instead on expressive cutscenes and character interactions reminiscent of Pixar’s animated shorts. The absence of a map, health bar, or any form of on-screen interface keeps players fully immersed in the game’s exploration and puzzles.
Gameplay built around light and exploration
Early gameplay footage shows that Keeper’s central mechanic revolves around the lighthouse’s beam of light. Players use the beam to illuminate pathways, highlight objects, and interact with the world’s diverse inhabitants. The light can cause creatures to scatter or prompt them to hand over magical orbs, which unlock new areas or awaken towering creatures and structures. True to Double Fine’s distinctive style, the environments feature surreal elements such as melting mountain peaks with a Salvador Dalí-like influence.
The game encourages players to engage with the world rather than focus solely on combat. Across multiple gameplay demonstrations, various creatures were shown reacting in unique ways, from hiding to roaming freely in a setting where humanity has long disappeared. In one segment, the lighthouse encounters a giant flying whale, adding to the game’s dreamlike quality.
Players can also use the lighthouse’s beam to create sparkling points of interaction for Twig. In a later scene, the lighthouse gains the ability to manipulate time, turning Twig back into an egg while a crumbling building repairs itself, revealing a new path. Twig remains in this egg state temporarily until the lighthouse fast-forwards time, restoring its companion. Abilities like these appear to be tied to specific locations rather than a traditional skill progression system. Another gameplay moment shows the lighthouse entering a pink mist, unlocking a jump and glide ability, which further enhances exploration.
Themes of transformation and partnership
Schafer explained that themes of change and transformation will run throughout Keeper, with the relationship between the lighthouse and Twig at its heart. The dynamic recalls other beloved gaming duos such as Banjo and Kazooie, with Twig often displaying loyalty and determination. In one scene, Twig attempts to drag the massive lighthouse to safety after it stumbles, symbolising their bond, even if the bird’s efforts do little to help physically.
Keeper blends whimsy and mystery with its unique setting and unconventional characters, making it a standout addition to Double Fine’s portfolio. The game is scheduled for release on 17 October for Xbox Series X|S and PC, and it will also be available through Xbox Game Pass.
