Rumors Hint at New Open-World SpongeBob Game Featuring Patrick Star

Rumors are circulating about a potential open-world SpongeBob SquarePants game in development, promising an explorable Bikini Bottom and physics-based gameplay. The beloved subnautical series, featuring SpongeBob and his underwater friends, is one of the most iconic cartoon franchises globally. SpongeBob has appeared in various media, from his original TV series and films to crossovers with popular games like Minecraft. Now, there are hints that a new and ambitious SpongeBob game might be on the horizon.

Since its TV debut in 1999, the SpongeBob SquarePants franchise has spawned numerous video game adaptations across various platforms. The series has released 50 dedicated video games, with SpongeBob and his friends also appearing in several of Nickelodeon's crossover titles. Among these, some have been critically acclaimed, such as the 2003 hit SpongeBob SquarePants: Battle for Bikini Bottom. However, the upcoming SpongeBob game is rumored to spotlight one of SpongeBob's closest friends.

According to NintendoLife, a recent listing on the European online marketplace Igabiba may have leaked the next game from the popular cartoon series. The listing, which was quickly removed, featured "The Patrick Star Game," reportedly developed by Outright Games. This game would allow players to control the beloved character Patrick Star, offering an open-world experience in Bikini Bottom with physics-based mechanics. The listing also hinted at the platforms for the game's release, suggesting it would be available on the Switch, PS5, and Xbox consoles.

The potential launch of a new game centered around Patrick Star comes amid a resurgence of SpongeBob games in recent years. In 2020, SpongeBob SquarePants: Battle for Bikini Bottom Rehydrated was released as a remastered version of the early 2000s 3D platformer. Purple Lamp and THQ Nordic also introduced a brand-new title, SpongeBob SquarePants: The Cosmic Shake, last year. While the leaked listing did not confirm a release window for the new game, the prospect of another title in the franchise is exciting for fans.

The development of a new SpongeBob game aims to build on the enduring legacy of the franchise. SpongeBob has been a staple of pop culture for nearly 25 years, continuously releasing new episodes of the original series. The franchise has also expanded with multiple spinoffs, including Kamp Koral and The Patrick Star Show. The possibility of a new open-world game set in Bikini Bottom is sure to thrill fans, offering another opportunity to explore the undersea world of SpongeBob SquarePants.