Patlabor the Case Files Returns as a 3D Action Game for PS5 and PC

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Publisher Good Smile Company and developer Chime Corporation have officially announced PATLABOR the Case Files, a new 3D action title based on the long-running Mobile Police Patlabor franchise. The game is currently in development for PlayStation 5 and PC via Steam, although no release date has been confirmed yet.

What stands out immediately is the involvement of key original staff members, including mechanical supervisor Yutaka Izubuchi, script supervisor Kazunori Itou, and character art supervisor Akemi Takada. That level of continuity suggests the project is aiming for authenticity rather than simply borrowing the name.

The premise itself leans heavily into what made Patlabor unique in the first place. Instead of focusing purely on large-scale battles, the story is rooted in a near-future setting where “Labors”, industrial robots used for construction and civil engineering, have become a normal part of everyday life. As their use expanded, so did crime involving them, leading to the creation of the Special Vehicle Section 2, a police unit equipped with its own Labors to respond to these threats.

Players will be able to experience the story from multiple perspectives. “Main Missions” put you in the role of Special Vehicle Section 2, while “Another Side Missions” let you step into the shoes of opposing forces. It’s an approach that could add some variety to the usual mission flow, especially if both sides are given meaningful differences in how they play. Over 20 different Labors are set to appear, including fan-favorite units like the Ingram, the Griffon, and Type Zero.

Beyond the main missions, the inclusion of a Simulator Mode adds another layer. This allows players to engage in shooting practice and direct Labor-versus-Labor combat, which could appeal to those more interested in the mechanical and combat side of things rather than the narrative structure.