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| Image from the game Tomba! 2: The Evil Swine Return Special Edition. |
For thousands of gamers around the world, the golden age of PlayStation 1 platformers never truly ended. While mega-hits like Crash Bandicoot and Spyro get the lion’s share of nostalgia, a passionate community has kept the flame alive for more obscure gems. Now, in a move that’s thrilling retro enthusiasts, one of the PS1’s most charming and overlooked titles is getting a second chance: Tomba! 2: The Evil Swine Return is being remastered for PS5, Nintendo Switch 2, Xbox Series X/S, and Steam.
Set for release on December 15, 2025, the Special Edition promises to bring the 1999 cult classic into the modern era without losing its quintessential late-90s soul.
A Blast from the Past: What Was Tomba! 2?
Originally developed by Whoopee Camp, Tomba! 2 was a vibrant, quirky 3D platformer that flew somewhat under the radar upon its 1999 release. It stood out with its unique “event-based” gameplay, colorful 2.5D worlds, and a protagonist with unmistakable pink hair. The story followed the wild adventurer Tomba on a quest to rescue his friend Tabby and defeat the mischievous Evil Pigs, who had cursed the land with powerful magic.
Its blend of exploration, light RPG elements, and inventive level design earned it a dedicated, if niche, following. For years, fans have pleaded for a re-release, making this announcement a dream come true.
What to Expect from the Special Edition
The upcoming Tomba! 2: The Evil Swine Return Special Edition will faithfully include the entire main plot and all 137 event-based levels from the original. Players will once again guide Tomba, aided by his friend Zippo, through a whimsical and challenging journey to save Tabby.
A new trailer, recently unveiled, leans heavily into nostalgia. It highlights the game’s original story while showcasing the polished, yet deliberately retro, graphics. The visual style appears to be a careful remaster, not a remake—cleaning up the resolution and performance while preserving the game's iconic aesthetic and feel. Expect smoother framerates, sharper textures, and quality-of-life features like save states, while the core gameplay remains untouched.
This resurgence of classic PS1 titles is part of a broader trend in gaming preservation and nostalgia. As reported recently, the demand for remasters of classic PlayStation 1 games is stronger than ever, proving there's a substantial market for these revitalized adventures.
Why This Remaster Matters
In an era of massive open worlds and hyper-realistic graphics, the return of Tomba! 2 is a testament to timeless game design. Its event-driven progression and distinct visual personality offer a experience that still feels unique today. For older fans, it’s a chance to revisit a cherished chapter of their gaming youth. For new players, it’s an opportunity to discover a hidden genre gem that influenced many contemporary indie titles.
The multi-platform release ensures that whether you’re on a next-gen console or PC, you can jump into this classic adventure.
Tomba! 2: The Evil Swine Return Special Edition launches on December 15, 2025 for PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch 2, Xbox Series X/S, and Steam. The pigs better be ready—Tomba’s coming back, and a whole new generation is about to learn why this cult classic is so beloved.