Finding Polka Wiki
Finding Polka is a cozy, dialogue-free hand-drawn adventure from Japanese solo developer Shinnosuke Kumazawa (working under the name lidlocks), published by PARCO GAMES, set for release on PC via Steam on August 12, 2026. A free demo covering the game's opening has been available since April 2026, currently holding a perfect Positive rating (100% of 33+ reviews).
The Premise
Frendy lives a peaceful life with her beloved dog, Jazz. One day, walking past a flower shop, they spot a dog that looks exactly like Polka, the dog Frendy had as a child -- and without a second thought, they take off after it. Handed a map and a single objective -- find Polka -- players wander through a sprawling world of towns, forests, and sparkling seas. Ultimately, the game is less about reaching the destination and more about getting pleasantly lost along the way.
A World Drawn in Ballpoint Pen
The entire world is illustrated in ballpoint pen, giving it the feel of a well-loved sketchbook brought to life. The story unfolds entirely without dialogue or spoken words -- the cast, from endlessly patient giraffes to permanently peckish cats, communicates purely through expressions, gestures, and sound. High-fiving a character turns them into a friend who'll cheer you on and help out when the going gets tricky, and the world is packed with hidden secrets, oddball locals, and occasional mini-games along the way.
A Deeply Personal Tribute
This is a genuinely personal project for its creator: Kumazawa made Finding Polka as a tribute to his own late dog, whose memory lives on directly within the game through the paw prints Polka leaves behind as you follow her. That real emotional weight runs through the whole experience, blending gentle slice-of-life storytelling with subtle surreal touches inspired by the quiet rhythms of everyday life in Japan.
Real Recognition Ahead of Launch
Finding Polka has already earned two awards at Japan's BitSummit PUNCH showcase -- Visual Excellence and the Kids Selection award. It's the fourth title published by PARCO GAMES, following The Berlin Apartment, Constance, and NOVA ANTARCTICA.