Stardew Valley meets Animal Crossing in adorable new game

‘I don’t need another cosy game to play,’ I say to myself as I write this article, occasionally looking at my Steam backlog that features far too many cosy games I bought in various sales.

I’m sure I don’t need another one, but Sugardew Island does look lovely, and it’s not out until March 2025, so I can get through some of the games I own before then. I’m trying to make a case here.

If you're on the hunt for another cosy farm-sim, check out Fields of Mistria

All of this is like catnip for me; “cozy farming game,” and “sell your goods to the cute Forest Folk,” or how about, “Care for animals.”

And what’s even better, there’s only 15 hours of gameplay here. I’m not signing on to another few hundred hours like Stardew Valley, though this game does, of course, have shades of that.

The shorter campaign will appeal to many who have sunk countless hours into farming sims, which is refreshing.

There’s obviously plenty of Animal Crossing inspiration too, though really any game in this genre owes a little something to that Nintendo franchise.

Sugardew Island will be available on Steam and sells itself as an “intentionally uncomplicated cozy farm shop sim.”

Which is perfect for me, as I just want to turn my brain off with these games and let the wholesome nature wash away the crushing burdens of life driven by late-stage capitalism and the impending doom of environmental disaster and austerity politics.

Plus, look how gorgeously colourful it is.

I might just be sold on this one just because it has animal companions. That’s the way into my heart and soul.

I do stand corrected that the inspiration for the game, so says the developer, is the Harvest Moon series on Nintendo DS.

Best add it to your wishlist, and play the hell out of this when it comes out.