Single-player story-focused action game SPINE will launch for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC via Steam in summer 2027, developer Nekki has announced. The game has been on the radar of action fans for some time thanks to its flashy combat and cyberpunk setting, and its new release window finally gives players a clearer idea of when they can expect to get their hands on it. A release window for the Nintendo Switch 2 version has not been announced, though Nekki confirmed that the port is planned for after launch.

SPINE follows Redline, a rebellious street artist living in Tensor City, a massive cyberpunk metropolis built by an AI following an ecological collapse. Life in Tensor City is controlled by a Social Rating system that determines everything from employment to access to food, creating a stark divide between the wealthy New City above and the struggling Old City below. After a mafia heist goes wrong and her brother disappears, Redline obtains Spine, a sentient combat implant, and begins a search for him.

Combat is clearly one of SPINE's biggest selling points, combining close-quarters gunplay with beat 'em up mechanics through a system inspired by Batman: Arkham's Freeflow Combat. Redline can dodge attacks at point-blank range, disarm enemies, steal their weapons, parry incoming strikes, and chain attacks together into flashy finishers. The game also uses a cinematic combat camera that keeps players close to the action, giving encounters the appearance of a playable cyberpunk action movie. Despite the cinematic presentation, players remain in control of Redline throughout combat.

SPINE's combat blends influences from Batman, Sifu, and Gun Fu with its own cyberpunk style. Players can also interact with the environment, take weapons from enemies, and improvise as encounters become increasingly chaotic. Boss battles will feature the Children of Tensor, elite spinebearers who are faster and stronger than regular enemies. Each boss will require a different approach, providing another challenge for players who master Redline's combat abilities.

Outside of combat, SPINE will explore the contrasting sides of Tensor City, taking Redline from its polished upper levels to its grimier streets below. Throughout her journey, she will encounter Justice Department squads, mafia enforcers, VR-possessed fanatics, and the Children of Tensor. Nekki has also suggested that the game will offer more than a series of combat encounters, with Redline's actions potentially affecting the cyberpunk city around her.

SPINE still has a wait ahead, but its summer 2027 release window gives the game a much clearer target after years of development. Nekki has not announced an exact release date yet, meaning fans will have to wait for further details in the months ahead. The Switch 2 version will arrive after launch, while PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC players can now look forward to experiencing SPINE next summer.