Steam's Latest Free Offering is a Genuinely Charming Hidden Gem

This brand new Steam game is absolutely adorable, and there’s even a wholesome reason as to why it’s being given away for free.

I write these free games articles for Steam titles probably half a dozen times a week. Most of the time, games are free on the storefront because they’re riddled with microtransactions, or there’s some kind of Steam fest going.

However, today’s example has a much more wholesome reason for being free– and it doesn’t hurt that it looks pretty damn good, too.

Atollo is a naval combat and exploration focused title from developer and publisher Crudaluna Media, and you probably don't need me to tell you that the pixel art on this one is cute as hell.

As of writing, there isn’t any kind of review consensus for the game, but all of the reviews so far are positive. Here’s what folks are saying about Atollo.

“Fun game, enjoyed a lot, little canon fights was the most fun part for me”, commented Steam user amwatcher.

“The hardest thing was finding the eggs but then I realized there was a map that will show you where you haven't visited yet and stuff that you need to pick up”, writes Steam reviewer Ribbitz.

“Overall great game, I love the pixel graphics, it's beautiful!”

So, what’s the reason behind this one being given away for free? It looks cute, and it’s apparently pretty fun, so surely they could have charged a couple of bucks for this one, right?

As developer Alberto explains in the Steam description for Atollo, they’re giving this one away because they’re a solo dev who is trying to build a portfolio of work.

“I’m releasing Atollo for free with the goal of sharing something fun, goofy and replayable, while building a portfolio that can help me take the next step into the game development industry”, Alberto explains.

Hell yeah, man. I think that’s a great way to get your name out there, and they’re clearly skilled if they managed to produce something like this by themselves.

Keep up the good work, Alberto. I’m rooting for you.