Key’s time-loop thriller Loopers is getting a second wind. Titled Loopers Plus, this expanded edition was officially revealed and aims to enhance the 2021 kinetic novel with new content, deeper character moments, and a more fleshed-out post-loop narrative. It’s set to release in Japan this October for PC.
The original Loopers was penned by Ryukishi07 of Higurashi and Umineko fame and delivered a standalone sci-fi yarn rooted in youth, memory, and obsession. While the base release was brief—borderline experimental for a Key work—it had style, momentum, and a twisty emotional center. It also left just enough hanging to make you wonder what a fuller version could look like.
Apparently, Key had the same thought.
What’s New in Loopers Plus?
Loopers Plus isn’t just a re-release. It’s billed as a “definitive” edition that introduces:
- Additional scenarios and epilogues expanding the core cast’s arcs
- New characters and interactions to deepen the world-building
- Fresh CG artwork and music that flesh out key emotional beats
- More insight into the mysteries behind the endless August 1st
This could be a meaningful upgrade or just extra icing on a shortcake. That’ll depend on how much narrative weight these additions carry.
Livestream Set for August 1
Fittingly, new details will drop on the in-universe loop day itself. Key is hosting a Loopers Plus livestream on August 1, 2025 at 19:00 JST via their official Visual Arts YouTube channel. Expect actual gameplay footage, new trailers, and cast commentary.
Guests for the stream include:
- Sayaka Kaneko (Mia)
- Tomohito Takatsuka (Tyra)
- Hiyori Kono (Hilda)
This broadcast should give the clearest picture yet of how deep Plus is diving into new material. Voice actor involvement also hints at at least some fresh in-game audio, not just visual or text-based additions.
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Will It Get Localized?
While a Western release hasn’t been confirmed, the original Loopers was localized and ported to Switch and PS4. It wouldn’t be surprising to see Loopers Plus follow suit, especially if fan interest is strong enough. Key has been increasingly global-facing with recent titles, so it’s less of an “if” and more of a “when.”
Should You Wait?
If you’ve never played Loopers, this re-release might be the one to wait for. The original was stylish but lean—some called it undercooked, others admired its tight focus. Plus looks like the second pass some readers wanted.
For returning players, it depends how much the added material recontextualizes the core themes. More isn’t always better, but if Ryukishi07’s pen is still involved, there’s reason to be optimistic.
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