THQ Nordic has officially announced SpongeBob SquarePants: Titans of the Tide, a brand-new 3D platforming adventure that sees SpongeBob and Patrick caught in the middle of a supernatural crisis. The Flying Dutchman is back and more powerful than ever, teaming up with King Neptune to plunge Bikini Bottom into ghostly chaos.
Set to release on November 18, 2025, the game is heading to PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch 2, and PC via Steam. Notably, there will be no versions for PlayStation 4, Xbox One, or the original Nintendo Switch marking a clean break into current-gen hardware.
A New SpongeBob Adventure, A Bigger World
Developed once again by Purple Lamp Studios the team behind The Cosmic Shake Titans of the Tide puts players in control of both SpongeBob and Patrick as they travel across haunted versions of familiar locations. You’ll visit places like Mount Bikini, Neptune’s Palace, and a redesigned Atlantis, each filled with spectral enemies and platforming challenges.
While SpongeBob retains his classic bubble-blowing and jellyfishing antics, Patrick gets new tricks, including a grappling hook and a burrowing ability to uncover hidden paths. Players can swap between the two in real time, adding a strategic layer to exploration and combat.
Ghosts, Boss Fights, and Surfing the Ethereal Waves
What sets Titans of the Tide apart is its commitment to “ghostboarding,” a new mechanic that lets players surf across haunted energy rails at high speed similar to the rail grinding seen in games like Ratchet & Clank or Sonic Frontiers. Sliding down slime-infested slopes and outrunning spectral jellyfish is a huge part of the moment-to-moment gameplay.
Boss battles are also a big focus this time. Expect large-scale encounters against corrupted versions of fan-favorite characters, including a possessed Sandy Cheeks and a truly intimidating showdown with the Flying Dutchman.
Voice Cast and Visuals
The game features full voice acting from the original TV show cast, bringing familiar charm to every conversation and cutscene. Visually, Titans of the Tide is a clear step up from The Cosmic Shake, using the power of modern hardware to create vibrant environments with real-time lighting and fluid animation.
The art style blends cartoonish proportions with detailed textures, offering a stylized look that’s faithful to the show without feeling like a budget adaptation.
Editions and Pricing
Titans of the Tide will be available in multiple editions:
- Standard Edition ($39.99 USD / ~$59.95 AUD): Includes the full game and a “Natural Costume Pack” as a pre-order bonus, featuring nature-themed outfits for both SpongeBob and Patrick.
- Ghostly Edition ($89.99 USD): A physical-only release for PS5 and Switch 2 that comes with a SteelBook case, patch, lenticular cards, a keychain, and the Tidal Season Pass.
- Bikini Bottom Bundle – Ultimate Edition ($99.99 USD): Includes Titans of the Tide, The Cosmic Shake, Battle for Bikini Bottom: Rehydrated, all DLC, and bonus costumes. A great pick for newcomers or longtime fans looking to catch up.
No Last-Gen Support
In a move that signals THQ Nordic’s shift into fully current-gen development, Titans of the Tide will not be released on PS4, Xbox One, or Nintendo Switch. While this may disappoint some players still on last-gen hardware, it likely means a more optimized, visually polished experience across the board.
SpongeBob’s gaming journey has been uneven over the years, but Titans of the Tide is shaping up to be a strong entry that builds on everything The Cosmic Shake got right. With larger levels, tighter mechanics, and a focus on fast-paced traversal and boss fights, this could be the best SpongeBob game yet.
We’ll find out when SpongeBob SquarePants: Titans of the Tide launches on November 18, 2025.
1-Up Games 