On September 13, Bandai Namco Entertainment announced the launch of the first console game project in THE IDOLM@STER SideM series. Currently under development, the new title will be released on Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2, though the official name and release date have yet to be announced.
The new title will continue the worldview of the existing stories on THE IDOLM@STER SideM brand page while presenting an entirely original storyline for the console version. The story revolves around a major live performance held one year later, featuring 49 idols from 16 units working towards their respective goals.
The main characters of THE IDOLM@STER SideM are all male idols, each with a professional background before becoming idols, such as doctors. Players take on the role of a producer at the 315 Production agency, responsible for nurturing these members who have chosen the path of idolhood for various reasons.
The series previously launched mobile games THE IDOLM@STER SideM LIVE ON ST@GE! and THE IDOLM@STER SideM GROWING STARS, but both titles have ceased operations. Excluding crossover titles that feature characters from multiple brands, this project marks the first standalone console game for THE IDOLM@STER SideM.
This also marks the first console game in THE IDOLM@STER series since THE IDOLM@STER Starlit Season in 2021. The project is currently in development, and Bandai Namco Entertainment will gradually reveal more details, including the official title and release date.