Developer Gabe Askew and publisher Indieformer have announced Abelina, a surreal, non-violent platformer that explores themes of life, death, and the emotional burdens people carry beyond existence. Set in a handcrafted afterlife illuminated by fluorescent plants and filled with unusual discoveries, the game is scheduled to launch on Steam in early 2027, with a public demo planned for November 2026.

The story follows Vasily, who awakens in Abelina, a small settlement within a sprawling afterlife where residents tend their gardens while avoiding questions about the true nature of their home. When a tragedy shatters the community's apparent tranquility, he gathers his secrets and sets out toward a dark wilderness. Each night, a former companion catches up with him around the campfire, seeking answers to the events unfolding around them.

Exploration lies at the heart of the experience, with no combat or violent confrontations. Players must climb obstacles, jump across platforms, and navigate branching paths through a world that becomes increasingly challenging as they venture further into the unknown. Glowing pools and plants hanging from the forest canopy help illuminate available routes, while new biomes reveal increasingly surreal environments deep within an seemingly endless night.

The fantastical wildlife also plays an important role in shaping this universe, combining peculiar creatures with behaviors that contribute to the narrative. Rabbit-cats lure travelers into the shadows, giant moths glide between branches, and glowing goats roam the wilderness. The dark humor and curious behavior of these inhabitants help reveal elements of the story, reinforcing the unusual identity of this handcrafted world.

Progression is also tied to uncovering Vasily's secrets and the mysteries of his home, with a mature narrative that explores existential questions without relying on combat. Paths are not always obvious, encouraging players to investigate hidden areas and rewarding those who venture beyond the most apparent routes. Movement and exploration thus take the place traditionally occupied by combat in platformers.