Cozy games are dime a dozen on the PS5, but NIS America’s upcoming Village in the Shade looks to be taking the genre in a slightly more unsettling direction.
All is fairly familiar in the opening exchanges of this announcement trailer: a painterly isometric world makes way for agricultural activities and everything in between.
But when the sun sets, you may need your pitchforks for more than just tilling the soil.
Here’s how the publisher describes the game, which is due for release later this year on the PS5:
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“Welcome to Kagatsu, a Japanese mountain village with plenty of secrets. In this brand-new, hand-painted farming sim, you’ll plant crops, customize your homestead, and befriend a cast of intriguing characters.
Relax by the brook, watch the cherry blossoms with your neighbors, or take a stroll through town. With so many ways to relax, you’re sure to feel right at home.
Just make sure to follow a few simple rules: don’t talk to strangers, don’t leave the village, and, whatever you do, don’t go out at night.”
Obviously, in addition to purchasing furniture and making friends, you’ll be investigating the mysteries of Kagatsu – if you dare.
This looks like a really intriguing twist on a tried and trusted genre, so we’re really looking forward to learning more.
Are you down for a darker cozy game? Don’t stray too far from the comments section below.