Animal Crossing Rival Drops Must-Play Free Offering on PS5 and Xbox

Many of us expected Animal Crossing: New Horizons’ recent 3.0 Update to mark the beginning of the title’s comeback.

Its resurgence was seemingly short-lived though with cosy gamers instead flocking to new titan of the genre Pokémon Pokopia.

Chances are that many of you are still wrapped up in all that it has to offer, but if you’re looking for an Animal Crossing alternative that’s available across PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S, you may find what you’re after in Outbound.

READ MORE: Here are nine games you’ll enjoy if you like Pokémon Pokopia.

Developed by Square Glade Games, Outbound is an upcoming cosy base building game where players will build and decorate their own little camper van abode.

“Outbound is a cosy open-world exploration game set in a utopian near future,” the synopsis begins.

“Start with an empty camper van and turn it into the home of your dreams - alone or together with your friends.

“Build and explore at your own pace. Collect materials, craft, and build in and on top of your vehicle with modular parts.

“Advance in technology and efficiently use energy to power your home.”

Outbound Launches In Full On 23 April

It’s a charming little formula, uniquely bringing light sci-fi elements into the mix.

Players will be able to create mobile gardens, construct incredible roof builds, adopt canine and feline friends, road trip across Outbound’s world, and, of course, decorate.

Square Glade Games

Outbound is due to launch on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X/S this month on 23 April but ahead of that date, a free demo has arrived on console platforms.

Having previously been available via Steam only, PS5 and Xbox Series X/S users can now sample what Outbound has to offer.

The demo lasts for one to three hours depending on the pace at which you play. You simply need to head to the PlayStation Store or Xbox Store, search for Outbound, and hit download on the demo.

Over on PC storefront Steam, the demo boasts a Very Positive review rating with 88% of players having a great time.

“I just wanna keep driving around in my cosy little van, keep building up my little camp house, and keep exploring the different areas. Alas, the full version is not out yet. And so, I wait,” remarked one player, while another added, “Quite calming, Nice music. Great with friends.”

You don’t need a PlayStation Plus or Xbox Game Pass subcription to get involved with this one.

It’s shaping up to be a popular new cosy gaming experience come release.