Home News Kodansha's MOCHI-O: A Hamster-Wielding Shooter Game

Kodansha's MOCHI-O: A Hamster-Wielding Shooter Game

by Logan May 21,2025

When it comes to innovative game releases, Kodansha Creators' Lab's upcoming title, Mochi-O, certainly stands out. This unique rail shooter game, developed by the solo creator Zxima, blends traditional shooting mechanics with an unexpected twist: your weapon of choice is a gun-wielding hamster named Mochi-O. As you fight to protect the world from evil robots, you'll find yourself immersed in a quirky and charming world that's anything but ordinary.

In Mochi-O, players not only engage in fast-paced rail shooting action but also take on the role of a caretaker. You'll nurture your hamster companion by feeding it seeds, which helps to strengthen your bond and unlock a variety of powerful weapons, ranging from rifles to rocket launchers. This virtual pet element adds a layer of depth to the gameplay, encouraging players to invest time in building their relationship with Mochi-O. Moreover, the game incorporates roguelike features, offering random upgrades as you progress through battles, which keeps each playthrough fresh and exciting.

The visual style of Mochi-O, with its pixelated charm, reflects the indie spirit that Kodansha Creators' Lab aims to promote. As an extension of the renowned manga publisher, the lab provides a platform for indie developers like Zxima to showcase their creativity and gain much-needed visibility. The game's quirky tone and retro-inspired rail shooter mechanics are sure to pique the interest of gamers looking for something new and different.

Keep an eye out for Mochi-O, as it's set to launch on iOS and Android later this year. With its blend of action, pet care, and roguelike elements, it promises to be a delightful addition to the mobile gaming scene. And while you wait, don't forget to check out our preview of Supercell's new release, Mo.Co, which reinvents the classic monster-hunting genre in its own unique way.

A pixellated interface showing someone flicking a sunflower seed to a waiting hamster with its mouth open