Game directors Adam Stjärnljus and Klas Martin Eriksson have shared details about the story and world of Planet of Lana II: Children of the Leaf. The sequel continues Lana’s journey alongside her companion Mui, exploring a planet that has evolved significantly since the first game. Set for release in early 2026 on Xbox consoles and Xbox on PC through Xbox Play Anywhere, the game will be available on Xbox Game Pass Ultimate from day one.
The original Planet of Lana focused on 11-year-old Lana’s mission to rescue her sister and village from mysterious machines. In the sequel, Novo faces further disruption as advanced alien technology alters the balance of life on the planet. This change gives rise to a new faction, the Dijinghala, who use the machines to exploit Novo’s resources. When Lana’s niece becomes caught in the middle of these events, Lana and Mui embark on a new journey to protect their home while confronting both personal and planetary challenges.
New Societies and Emerging Conflicts
Since the events of the first game, Novo has developed three distinct societies, each with its own approach to the arrival of machines. Lana’s home, Tailo Village, has adapted to coexist with the machines, integrating them into farming, fishing, and daily life.
In contrast, the secluded Wemari Village remains cautious and often hostile toward the machines, requiring careful navigation by players when exploring its forested regions. The northern Dijinghala faction represents a more aggressive threat, using technology to harvest resources and expand their influence across Novo. These different societies create a range of narrative and gameplay challenges as players move through the planet.
Expanding the World of Novo
Planet of Lana II introduces a variety of new environments to explore, including snowy mountains, deep oceans, ancient forests, urban areas, and forgotten ruins. Each location contains unique creatures, environmental puzzles, and secrets tied to the planet’s history. The sequel’s campaign is expected to last between six and eight hours, providing opportunities for players to uncover more about Novo’s past and the complex relationships between its inhabitants.
Gameplay has been enhanced to support Lana and Mui’s evolving partnership. Players can guide Mui with increased precision, solve diverse physics-based puzzles, and navigate stealth and action sequences using refined mechanics. The sequel also introduces hybrid robot interactions and new environmental challenges that require both strategy and timing.
Storytelling and Audio
The narrative continues to be delivered in a made-up language without subtitles, encouraging players to interpret the story and character motivations themselves. This approach frames the game as a cinematic puzzle experience, where observation and inference play a key role. The original game’s composer, Takeshi Furukawa, returns to provide a score that complements the emotional beats and cinematic moments of the story, reinforcing the immersive atmosphere across Novo’s varied landscapes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When is Planet of Lana II releasing?
Planet of Lana II: Children of the Leaf is scheduled for release in early 2026 for Xbox consoles and Xbox on PC.
Will Planet of Lana II be on Xbox Game Pass?
Yes, the game will be available on Xbox Game Pass Ultimate from day one.
What platforms will Planet of Lana II support?
The game supports Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and Xbox on PC through Xbox Play Anywhere.
Is the story subtitled or in a real language?
The game’s story is told in a fictional language without subtitles. Players are encouraged to interpret the narrative through context and gameplay.
How long is the campaign?
The campaign is expected to last approximately six to eight hours, with new areas, puzzles, and secrets to explore.
What new gameplay elements are included?
The sequel expands companion gameplay, adds hybrid robot interactions, introduces new environmental puzzles, and refines stealth and action mechanics.
Who is composing the music?
Takeshi Furukawa returns as composer, providing a score that enhances the cinematic and emotional experience.
Can new players start with Planet of Lana II?
While the sequel builds on the story of the first game, new players can still enjoy the adventure and learn about Novo as they progress.
