Stardew Valley meets Animal Crossing in new free game

Palia is easily one of my favourite cosy games of the year - and I’ve only had my hands on it for a few days. If you’re into Stardew Valley, Animal Crossing: New Horizons, Disney Dreamlight Valley or practically any cosy life-sim, you’re going to love Palia.

Developed by Singularity 6 Corporation, Palia is an action-adventure RPG that incorporates farming, exploration, crafting, and life-sim elements. Its world is so lush and expansive. The synopsis reads, “Palia is a vibrant new world made just for you. Craft, cook, fish, and farm with friends as you live the life of your dreams and discover an enchanting adventure filled with colourful characters and a mystery to unravel.” I may as well let the trailer speak for itself.

Fae Farm is another cosy game well-worth checking out.

The game is currently available on PC and Nintendo Switch, with a Steam launch due soon. It is totally free and I really do urge you to give it a go over the festive season. In this MMO, you’ll be able to build and nurture your own home and garden - and visit those crafted by your friends. I’d say that Palia has somewhat of a Fortnite aesthetic, mixed with a bit of Fae Farm. It’s colourful and charming.

Palia is so much more than growing crops though. You’ll need to partake in an investigation: “Unravel a deep mystery about what happened to ancient humans as you reappear in a world alongside other players. Befriend the local Majiri, learn their backstories, foster relationships, and maybe even romance.” Yes, you heard that right. There are romance options too. What cosy game is complete without them?

There are hundreds of craftable items and I can easily see Palia becoming a game players sink hundreds of hours into. Seeing as it’s totally free, there’s no harm in giving this one a whirl.