Indie developer Mankibo and Czech publisher Nejcraft have announced that Montabi will receive a physical release for Nintendo Switch 2 in Q1 2027. The upcoming title combines creature collecting, strategic deck-building, and roguelike gameplay, offering a different approach to the monster-catching genre.
With more than 500 cards, multiple creature evolutions, and tactical grid-based battles, Montabi aims to deliver an experience that rewards experimentation and strategic thinking.
Montabi Combines Creature Collecting With Card-Based Combat
Montabi introduces players to a world where mysterious creatures known as Montabi play a central role in combat and exploration. However, things take a turn when the villainous Team X steals the creatures, forcing players to fight their way through a city to recover them.
Rather than following a traditional linear adventure, Montabi uses branching paths inspired by roguelike games. Each run presents different opportunities, challenges, and strategic decisions.
Players can choose from 22 starter Montabi, each featuring its own card deck and multiple evolutionary forms. These choices influence combat strategies and encourage players to experiment with different combinations.
Over 500 Cards and Tactical Grid-Based Battles
Unlike traditional creature-collecting games, Montabi relies heavily on deck-building mechanics.
Battles take place on a tactical grid, where positioning plays an important role in determining the outcome. Players must carefully manage their cards while considering movement, enemy placement, and available abilities.
With more than 500 cards available, players can customize their decks to complement their preferred creatures and combat styles.
Different trainers also introduce unique specialties and gameplay mechanics. These variations influence deck construction and provide additional strategic possibilities during each run.
The combination of randomized paths, evolving creatures, and customizable decks aims to keep the experience fresh across multiple playthroughs.
Montabi Enters a Competitive Nintendo Switch 2 Market
Montabi will arrive on a platform that already features several major creature-collecting franchises.
Nintendo Switch 2 players can currently explore Pokémon Legends: Z-A and Pokémon Pokopia, while Capcom has expanded its monster-focused RPG lineup with Monster Hunter Stories 3: Twisted Reflection.
Competition will become even stronger in 2027, with Pokémon Winds and Waves expected to introduce the franchise’s tenth generation.
However, Montabi isn’t necessarily trying to compete directly with traditional Pokémon gameplay. Its combination of roguelike progression, tactical positioning, and card-based combat gives it a distinct identity.
For players who enjoy creature collecting but want something more focused on strategy and deck customization, Montabi could provide an interesting alternative.
Physical Nintendo Switch 2 Release Planned for Early 2027
Mankibo and Nejcraft are targeting the first quarter of 2027 for Montabi’s physical Nintendo Switch 2 release.
The announcement is particularly interesting for collectors who prefer purchasing games in physical form rather than relying entirely on digital storefronts.
However, the announcement does not yet establish whether the physical edition will contain the complete game on a cartridge or use a Game-Key Card.
That distinction could become important for players who specifically want a physical copy that does not depend on a separate game download.
More details about the physical edition, including its packaging and exact release date, are expected as the launch approaches.
