New Wizard of Oz spin-off is Stray for dog lovers with adorable free playtest
If you've ever played Stray and thought, 'This would be even better if I were a dog,' then boy, do we have a surprise for you.
Stray is an unbelievable simulator that puts you in the mind of a feline, as you prowl through a cyberpunk universe to make the streets your home.
But swapping out the trashy back alleys, Toto's Journey puts you on the yellow brick road.
An upcoming indie adventure from Hanuman Games, Toto's Journey reimagines The Wizard of Oz from the perspective of Dorothy's loyal canine companion.
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Better yet, you don't have to wait until launch to see what it's all about, because a free Steam playtest is available to request access to right now.
Toto's Journey gets free playtest ahead of 2026 release
Inspired by the classic tale, Toto's Journey begins after a mysterious cyclone sweeps Toto away into the magical land of Oz, separating him from Dorothy.
Instead of following the familiar story, you'll experience the adventure through Toto's eyes as he searches for his owner while uncovering the secrets of the enchanted world.
Although comparisons to Stray are inevitable thanks to its four-legged protagonist, Toto's Journey has its own cosy identity. Rather than navigating a futuristic cybercity, you'll be wandering colourful fantasy landscapes, solving environmental puzzles and exploring locations inspired by the world of Oz.
The Steam description promises a mixture of exploration, light puzzle-solving and environmental storytelling, with each new area introducing fresh mechanics and challenges.
"Toto’s Journey is a cozy adventure inspired by the world of The Wizard of Oz," it reads.
"Play as Toto, a brave dog lost in a magical world after a mysterious cyclone. Explore enchanted lands, meet unusual creatures, and solve environmental puzzles as you search for a way back home."
Players will also unlock magical abilities as the adventure progresses, helping Toto overcome obstacles and access previously unreachable paths.
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Fans of The Wizard of Oz should spot plenty of familiar faces along the way, too. The journey takes Toto through forests where the Lion can be found and into mechanical ruins once inhabited by the Tinman, offering a fresh perspective on the beloved fantasy setting.
Visually, the game leans heavily into its cosy atmosphere, with lush environments, vibrant colours and a wholesome art style that feels perfectly suited to a laid-back exploration game. If your Steam library is already packed with relaxing adventures, this looks like another one worth keeping an eye on.
Perhaps the best news is that curious players don't have to rely solely on trailers. Hanuman Games has opened a Steam Playtest, allowing users to request access ahead of the game's planned 2026 release. According to the developer, the current test lasts around 30 to 60 minutes and is intended to gather feedback on everything from controls and puzzles to performance and overall enjoyment.
With no release date confirmed beyond a 2026 launch window, there's still some waiting to do before the full adventure arrives. However, if you're looking for a wholesome game that swaps cats for dogs while putting an imaginative spin on one of fiction's most iconic fantasy worlds, Toto's Journey could be one to add to your wishlist.