Indie Japanese developer Kanno Develop has announced they’re bringing Midnight Yammy | 8-Bit Trickster Show to Steam.
Their retro yet brand-spanking new 8-bit game designed to run on the original NES, is coming to Steam September 17.
Players will be tasked with navigating labyrinths and solving puzzles. This may sound simple on paper, but you’ll be surprised by how deep the puzzle experience can get.
Here’s a rundown on the game, and trailer:
Why Develop an 8-Bit Game?
The answer lies at the core of this project.
Midnight Yammy was developed with the goal of running on actual NES-compatible hardware. It takes into account the limitations of the period—PPU, memory, sprite counts, and more—while maximizing gameplay fun within these constraints.
This approach allows the game to deliver a truly authentic 8-bit experience, distinct from typical 8-bit-style titles.
I believe that 8-bit games are best enjoyed together with their limitations. Even without lavish or abundant resources, the challenge of creating fun within strict constraints is exactly why this game was developed for a genuine 8-bit environment.
Development Background and Expansion
Midnight Yammy was originally conceived as a “cartridge title” for NES-compatible systems. The project began from a desire to revisit classic game design—maximizing fun within strict limitations—through a modern perspective.
Initially intended as a small project for play on real hardware, it was largely unknown outside a niche audience. However, it received positive feedback through social media, both in Japan and overseas, with many saying, “We want more people to experience this.” This encouraged the team to develop the Steam version.
While staying true to the original concept, the game will now reach a wider audience as a “modern 8-bit game.”
Steam, ROM, and Beyond
Midnight Yammy will be available on Steam and as a .nes ROM file. Players can enjoy the game on Steam, or experience it on actual hardware or compatible systems, bringing a genuine 8-bit environment to the modern era.
Preparations are also underway for a physical cartridge release. With the goal of recreating the tactile feel of that era, development continues steadily and carefully.
