Get ready for a thrilling announcement from the creator of the beloved Mario + Rabbids games! Davide Soliani, the mastermind behind this iconic franchise, has just unveiled his latest project, and it's a real game-changer. Bradley the Badger is set to revolutionize the platforming genre, and we can't wait to dive into its unique world.
Soliani, who left Ubisoft to form his own studio, Day 4 Night Studios, has crafted a game that blends classic platforming with a fresh, meta-twist. In Bradley the Badger, players embark on a journey to help the video game mascot navigate through unfinished creations, almost like a behind-the-scenes adventure. The trailer, unveiled at The Game Awards 2025, hints at nods to gaming legends like Bloodborne, Cyberpunk 2077, and The Last of Us, and even features a surprise appearance by Marvel's Evan Peters as Bradley himself!
But here's where it gets controversial... Soliani's new studio isn't alone in this endeavor. He's joined by an all-star team, including Christian Cantamessa, known for his work on Red Dead Redemption, Shadow of Mordor, and Perfect Dark. Together with three other ex-Ubisoft employees, they've created a game that explores the creative process and the challenges of bringing a game to life. As Bradley, players will visit various 'work-in-progress' creations, using an in-game Developer Kit to progress. And get this - there will even be live-action scenes, adding an extra layer of immersion as players help Bradley's creator.
An official statement describes Bradley the Badger as "a love letter to games, creativity, and everyone who has ever felt stuck in their career or artistic journey." It promises to expand beyond traditional game worlds, exploring tropes, genres, and styles from contemporary popular games and media. Soliani's emotional connection to his work is evident, as he describes the game as "a lullaby for my soul and a serenade to our industry."
Soliani's journey is an inspiring one. He gained fame and a dedicated following as the creator of Mario + Rabbids, an unexpected but beloved strategy game on the Nintendo Wii. His heartfelt reaction to the game's announcement at E3 2017 became an internet sensation, but Soliani eventually left Ubisoft in 2024 after 25 years. This move followed the release of Mario + Rabbids: Sparks of Hope, which Ubisoft's boss later admitted was launched too soon, missing the opportunity to make a bigger impact on the Switch 2.
Soliani's new game is a testament to his passion and creativity. It's a reflection of his vision and a celebration of the gaming industry. With Day 4 Night Studios, he's crafting an experience that promises joy, adventure, and the magic of creation.
What do you think of Bradley the Badger? Are you excited to explore its unique concept? Share your thoughts and let's discuss the future of platforming games!
