Level 5's anticipated crime suspense role-playing game, DECAPOLICE, has received another delay, now targeting a 2027 release. This news comes directly from the Level 5 Vision 2026 II Dream livestream, which also showcased a brand new trailer packed with story and gameplay insights.
DECAPOLICE: A Longer Wait Until 2027
Fans have been patiently waiting for DECAPOLICE since its initial announcement. The game was first slated for a 2023 launch, then pushed to 2025, followed by another delay to 2026, and now, its latest shift to 2027. This extended development time suggests Level 5 is committed to delivering a polished and expansive experience. The latest trailer provided a fresh look into the game, specifically previewing elements from 'The Three Mafioso Murders' case, giving players a glimpse of what to expect from the intricate criminal investigations.
Platform Evolution and Next-Gen Focus
Alongside the new release window, Level 5 has confirmed a significant change in the game's target platforms. DECAPOLICE will now launch exclusively for Nintendo Switch 2, PlayStation 5, and PC via Steam in 2027. Notably, the previously announced versions for the original Nintendo Switch and PlayStation 4 have been cancelled. This strategic shift indicates a move towards leveraging the capabilities of current and next-generation hardware, potentially allowing for more ambitious visuals and gameplay mechanics.
Unraveling the World of Decasim and Crime Beasts
DECAPOLICE plunges players into a unique detective adventure starring Harvard Marks, a rookie detective assigned to the Broadstone Police Center's Special Investigation Unit. At the heart of their training is Decasim, a sophisticated detective training simulator designed to perfectly replicate reality. However, a mysterious hacker introduces chaos by transforming all characters within Decasim into puppets, setting the stage for a compelling mystery.
Gameplay revolves around classic detective work: investigating intricate crime scenes, meticulously analyzing evidence, and piecing together clues to identify the culprit. Once the criminal's identity is uncovered, players will engage in tactical operations, which can escalate into dramatic confrontations with powerful 'Crime Beasts'—manifestations of the criminals' dark intentions. This blend of investigation and combat promises a dynamic and engaging experience.
Unique Collaborations and Musical Immersion
Adding another layer of intrigue, Level 5 is collaborating with SCRAP, a renowned escape room company. This partnership hints at potentially complex puzzles and mind-bending mysteries that will challenge players throughout their investigations. The game's atmospheric soundtrack will feature MARIA (GARNiDELiA) performing the theme song, 'City of Love,' promising an immersive audio experience to complement the crime suspense narrative.
Expanding the DECAPOLICE Universe with Anime
Further building anticipation, DECAPOLICE is not just a standalone game. A television anime adaptation has been announced and is set to premiere simultaneously with the game's release. This synchronized launch strategy aims to fully immerse fans in the DECAPOLICE universe right from the start, offering a dual narrative experience across interactive and passive entertainment. This multimedia approach underscores Level 5's vision for the DECAPOLICE franchise.
Despite the series of delays, the continued development, platform upgrades, and the promise of a simultaneous anime suggest a grand vision for DECAPOLICE. Fans worldwide will undoubtedly be marking their calendars for 2027, eager to dive into this ambitious crime suspense RPG.
