Stardew Valley meets Studio Ghibli in this wonderful free Steam download

If anyone describes a game as being Ghibli-esque, I’m immediately sold, which is why today, I’m hoping I can do the same for you.

There’s something so comforting about the worlds that Studio Ghibli creates, whether they be grounded or fantastical.

Games that tap into that sense of cosy wonderment are inevitably on to a winning formula.

We’ve seen many over the years, with Kena: Bridge of Spirits, Hoa, and Europa being some of my personal favourites.

Today, however, it’s Spirittea that I want to introduce you to.

Released last year and developed by Cheesemaster Games, Spirittea is a delightful life simulation game that, similarly to in Spirited Away, tasks you with operating your own bathhouse.

ICYMI: Astro Bot launches on PS5 tomorrow, and we rated the game a perfect 10 out of 10 in our review.

In addition to treating your customers to a wonderful bathing experience, you’ll have to help in solving their problems - whether that be locating the perfect spicy noodles or uncovering lost treasures.

There are townsfolk to befriend, and upgrades to be unlocked.

Naturally, Spirittea includes its fair share of management gameplay too as you’ll need to ensure the baths stay hot and you’re equipped with enough towels.

In our review of the game, GAMINGbible’s Ewan Moore wrote, “It’s a delightful blend of Stardew Valley and Studio Ghibli that isn’t always entirely successful, but is almost always guaranteed to soothe your soul after a long, hard day in the real world.”

Don’t just take our word for it. Spirittea boasts a very respectable score of 76 over on Metacritic.

The game is pretty much a steal at just £16.75 but if you want to double check that its gameplay loop is for you, you can download a free demo right now on Steam.

The concept of try before you buy is increasingly important in today’s economy so it’s always welcomed when devs do provide demos for prospective players.

If you’re a fan of Stardew Valley and Spirited Away, I’m almost certain you’ll find some joy in Spirittea.