A new interactive series consisting of nine episodes is due to release in April 2022 worldwide. Battle Kitty, takes inspiration from video games across multiple genres is perhaps one of the most ambitious interactive projects to date. It uses a world-first interactive format based on video game-style overworld maps, allowing viewers to navigate their own adventures within Kitty’s expansive universe, unlocking new chapters in the story, and uncovering some surprise content along the way.
The release comes exactly two years after the special was first announced for Netflix. Back then the project was based on Matt Layzell’s Instagram series called The Adventures of Kitty & Orc and described as a distinctive story experience.
Now, the streaming website has revealed the release date of the upcoming interactive series – it is coming to Netflix on 19 April 2022.
Here’s the official synopsis: “In a futuristic-medieval world, warriors must find and defeat all the monsters on Battle Island, collecting their coveted keys in order to become ‘Champion’. Cut to Kitty and Orc, two best friends on a mission- to help Kitty become Champion their way– through cuteness and friendship! The two embark on the journey to Championhood, facing many obstacles and naysayers only to discover a surprise waiting for them at the Ancient Ruins…”
Based on the first trailer, the series seems to borrow elements from the likes of Super Mario. The project is being made internally at Netflix under Netflix Animation led by Melissa Cobb. Cobb, on the announcement of the show said: “Battle Kitty is a mirror reflection of Matt himself — an inspiring, surprising, and incredibly fun show that is infused at every turn with huge amounts of both humor and heart. This series pushes the boundaries of storytelling in entirely new directions thanks to Matt’s innovative interactive format, which will allow kids to engage in an expansive universe together with the most lovable new underdog, Battle Kitty.”
The ‘Layzell Bros’ (Matt and Paul) have created the all-new interactive 3D animated series that is aimed at kids seven-12. Matt Layzell has credits on numerous projects in various capacities including Netflix’s Pinky Malinky series, Sanjay and Craig, and Apple & Onion.
“Netflix has given us an incredible opportunity to make a show that unites linear and interactive storytelling,” shared Matt Layzell. “We’ve made an entertaining, linear narrative adventure and wrapped it in an engaging (and cute) video game veneer. With Battle Kitty, the audience is a part of Kitty and Orc’s journey.”
Interactive 3D series Battle Kitty arrives on Netflix on 19 April.