New Puzzle Platformer 'Yerba Buena' Transports Players to 1970s San Francisco

Upcoming game lets players use a device called the Oscillator to manipulate the physical properties of objects and solve environmental puzzles.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 4:39am by

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An abstract, minimalist composition of jagged, geometric shapes in shades of orange, red, and black, conceptually representing the surreal 1970s setting and the Oscillator device at the heart of the puzzle-solving gameplay in Yerba Buena.The striking visual style of Yerba Buena transports players to a surreal 1970s San Francisco, where the Oscillator device holds the key to solving mind-bending environmental puzzles.San Francisco Today

Yerba Buena, a new puzzle platformer adventure game, will transport players to a surreal 1970s version of San Francisco where they'll take on the role of Barb and use a device called the Oscillator to capture and reapply the physical traits of objects in order to solve mind-bending environmental puzzles and save the city from a sinister threat.

Why it matters

Yerba Buena blends retro aesthetics, innovative gameplay mechanics, and a compelling narrative set in a fictionalized version of San Francisco, appealing to fans of classic platformers and puzzle games who are looking for a fresh, immersive experience.

The details

In Yerba Buena, players will navigate a 1970s-inspired gameworld, using the Oscillator device to manipulate the physical properties of objects, such as their weight, texture, or reflectivity, in order to progress through the levels and uncover the mystery behind the threat facing San Francisco.

  • Yerba Buena will be available on PlayStation 5 (PS5), Xbox Series X/S, and PC via Steam on May 26, 2026.
  • A demo for the game is out now.

The players

Barb

The protagonist of Yerba Buena, who uses the Oscillator device to solve puzzles and save San Francisco.

Oscillator

A device that allows players to capture and reapply the physical traits of objects in the game world.

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What’s next

A demo for Yerba Buena is available now, allowing players to get a taste of the game's unique puzzle-solving mechanics and surreal 1970s setting before the full release on May 26, 2026.

The takeaway

Yerba Buena promises to offer a unique and captivating experience for players, blending classic platforming and puzzle-solving gameplay with a visually striking, retro-inspired setting and a compelling narrative that explores the mysteries of a fictionalized San Francisco.