Playtonic’s remaster of its 3D platformer Yooka-Laylee, titled Yooka-Replaylee, will be released on 9 October. The game will be available on PC, Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 5 and Nintendo’s forthcoming Switch 2. Players will be able to choose between digital and physical editions, giving fans a choice of formats at launch. Pre-orders for the physical versions are now open, allowing collectors and new players to secure a boxed copy ahead of the release.
The studio’s original Yooka-Laylee paid homage to the classic 3D collectathon platformers popularised in the late 1990s, particularly the Banjo-Kazooie series. Playtonic is staffed by developers who previously worked on celebrated Rare titles, including Banjo-Kazooie and the Donkey Kong Country games. Yooka-Replaylee aims to build on that legacy with modern presentation and design, while staying true to the accessible, item-hunting gameplay that defined the original.
Cartridge approach on Switch 2
Physical media enthusiasts will find a notable detail in the Switch 2 release. Playtonic has confirmed that the Switch 2 version will include the full game on the cartridge, rather than using a game-key card. Nintendo has given developers the option to release cartridges that are essentially empty shells, called game-key cards, which require an immediate download as soon as the cartridge is inserted into the console. This approach has drawn criticism from collectors who value longevity, completeness and ease of use with physical media. For Yooka-Replaylee, the decision to provide a complete, self-contained cartridge is likely to be welcomed by that audience, offering a straightforward plug-and-play experience without a compulsory first download.
Enhancements, pricing and upgrade path
Yooka-Replaylee is presented as a remade and enhanced version of Yooka-Laylee, rather than a simple resolution bump. The remaster introduces updated challenges designed to freshen the familiar loop of exploration and collection. It also features a fully orchestral soundtrack to accompany the colourful worlds and platforming set-pieces. In addition, players can expect a larger map to explore, a refined story to tie the adventure together and enhanced graphics that bring characters and environments to life with greater clarity and detail. The game promises “more stuff to collect,” expanding the scavenger-hunt style progression that fans of the genre enjoy.
Pricing has been set at US$30 for the digital edition, with the physical edition priced at US$50. Playtonic has also outlined a promotion for existing owners of the original Yooka-Laylee. Those who already own the game will receive a 30% discount on Yooka-Replaylee, provided the remaster is purchased on the same platform family. In practical terms, this means that a Switch owner can claim the discount when upgrading to Switch 2, a PlayStation 4 owner can do so when purchasing a PlayStation 5, and an Xbox One owner can apply it when buying an Xbox Series X/S. The offer rewards long-time fans while encouraging a smooth transition to current-generation hardware.
Between the broadened scope, orchestral score and visual upgrades, Yooka-Replaylee aims to deliver a more polished take on Playtonic’s platforming formula. With a precise release date, multiple platform options and a consumer-friendly physical approach on Switch 2, the remaster positions itself as both an inviting entry point for newcomers and a more expansive homecoming for returning players.
