Steam's Latest Freebie Is a Gorgeous Road Trip Adventure I'm Head Over Heels For

Another new free demo has dropped as part of Steam Next Fest, and it’s one for those who enjoy management games and road trip adventures.

Indie game developer Alawar has released a demo for its upcoming petrol station management game The Last Gas Station as part of Steam Next Fest.

In The Last Gas Station, you’re the new owner of an old petrol station and a cosy store sitting next door to it. According to the information you’re given at the start of the demo, the previous owner disappeared under mysterious circumstances, and now it’s your turn to maintain order.

Day by day, you’ll grow your business by cleaning the station, setting up trade, and seeing to the various customers that visit during their travels.

However, the game also stresses that no matter what happens, do not go out at night. That is, unless you want to share in the fate of the station’s previous owner.

The Last Gas Station Demo Is Available Now As Part Of Steam Next Fest

If you fancy trying it out, you can check out the demo for The Last Gas Station now as part of Steam Next Fest.

Alawar

The demo, which launched on 20 February, features a lot of the mechanics and systems that become available to you in the early game.

You’ll take care of the roadside petrol station, fuel passing cars, sell to customers, and also be able to play around with the various mini-games and customisation features. However, a lot of content from later on in the game will be locked off to you, as they’re limited to the full experience.

It seems that those who’ve had a chance to check out the demo so far are giving it a good write-up too.

“Love the demo so far! Has a satisfying gameplay loop with an intriguing story all wrapped up in soothing music and super cute pixel art. Excited to see the full release,” reads one review from a player with nearly two hours in the demo.

“The demo has been delightful to play. Its a lovely blend of cozy shop keeping and mystery. Having to clean up after shoppers makes it feel like working in an actual store. I look forward to playing the full game once it comes out,” reads another review with 1.5 hours of play time.

A release date for The Last Gas Station hasn't been set in stone yet, but it's supposedly aiming for a Q2 2026 release which means we may see it release by around June.