Kernel Hearts
Kernel Hearts is a co-op action RPG with roguelike structure in which up to four Magical Girls climb the Tower of Babel. Ephemera Games combines fast combo battles, changing builds and a post-apocalyptic world with a story that blends Japanese influences and Argentine culture.
Compare prices
- Developer
- Ephemera Games
- Publisher
- Whitethorn Games
- Genre
- Action-RPG, Roguelike
- Game modes
- Online-Koop, Singleplayer
- Steam user reviews
- 78 % positive · 243 reviews
- At Steam
- View store page
On this page 8 sections
What is Kernel Hearts?
Kernel Hearts is an action RPG with roguelike structure and online co-op for up to four players. As part of the M.A.H.O.U. unit, you fight your way through the living Tower of Babel, defeat angel-like creatures and try to save a world sinking into ash.
The story is set in a post-apocalyptic version of Patagonia. Ephemera Games combines Japanese-inspired magical girl aesthetics with elements of Argentinian culture. This mix shapes both the world and the four main characters.
Updated 17.09.2026
Sources
- Kernel Hearts – offizielle Website kernelhearts.com
- Xbox Wire: Character Development and Storytelling in Kernel Hearts news.xbox.com
Release
Kernel Hearts was released on Sep 17, 2026. The release followed a free PC demo that gave an early impression of combat, builds and co-op in spring 2026.
On Xbox and PC, Kernel Hearts is also available on Game Pass at launch.
-
All platforms
The release date of Sep 17, 2026 is confirmed.
Source
- Gematsu: Kernel Hearts launches September 17 gematsu.com
-
Switch 2
Release for Nintendo Switch 2.
Source
- Gematsu: Kernel Hearts launches September 17 gematsu.com
Updated 17.09.2026
Sources
- Steam: Kernel Hearts store.steampowered.com
- Xbox Wire: Game Pass September 2026 news.xbox.com
Platforms
Kernel Hearts is natively available for PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S and Nintendo Switch 2. On PC, the game is offered via Steam and the Epic Games Store.
A version for PlayStation 4, Xbox One or the original Nintendo Switch is not part of the announced platform lineup.
Updated 17.09.2026
Sources
- Gematsu: Kernel Hearts launches September 17 gematsu.com
- Steam: Kernel Hearts store.steampowered.com
Gameplay
Combat combines attacks, spells and movement abilities into fast combos. Every run changes your build, while a guardian boss waits at the end of each level. After an expedition, the unit returns to a save point and invests rewards in chips for the MAHOU.OS.
Fernet, Spika, Laika and Dolce are deliberately played differently. Fernet relies on swords and spirits, Spika on disciplined katana attacks, Laika on heavy hits, and Dolce on a fighting style that draws on dance and performance. The campaign can be played fully solo, but is also designed for cooperative runs with up to four players.
Another core mechanic is the Magical Girl transformation. It briefly breaks the Heavenly Curse and activates a particularly powerful form. Between battles, you also deepen relationships with the residents of Babel.
Updated 17.09.2026
Sources
- Kernel Hearts – offizielle Gameplay-Übersicht kernelhearts.com
- Xbox Wire: Figuren und Kampfstile news.xbox.com
- Steam: Kernel Hearts store.steampowered.com
Trailer
System requirements
On PC, Kernel Hearts requires at least Windows 10 64-bit, 8 GB RAM, a GeForce GTX 1060 or comparable graphics card, and 15 GB of free storage. For the recommended settings, Steam lists 16 GB RAM and a GeForce RTX 2060 or GTX 1660 Ti.
According to the store, the minimum requirements target 1080p at low to medium settings. In online co-op, performance may vary depending on the situation.
The details apply to PC.
Minimum
- Operating system
- Windows 10 or later, 64-bit
- Processor
- Intel Core i7-9750H @ 2.60 GHz or equivalent
- RAM
- 8 GB RAM
- Graphics
- NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060 or equivalent
- Speicher
- 15 GB available
Recommended
- Operating system
- Windows 10 or later, 64-bit
- Processor
- Intel Core i7-10700 or AMD Ryzen 5 3600 or equivalent
- RAM
- 16 GB RAM
- Graphics
- NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2060 or GTX 1660 Ti or equivalent
- Speicher
- 15 GB available
Editorial details
Updated 17.09.2026
Sources
- Steam: Kernel Hearts store.steampowered.com
Similar games
Game series
Kernel Hearts is an independent brand from Ephemera Games. The project began in 2020 as a game jam entry and then grew over several years into a full co-op action RPG. Publisher Whitethorn Games has supported the game since the early development phase.
Updated 17.09.2026
Sources
- Xbox Wire: Entstehung von Kernel Hearts news.xbox.com
