Escape to the coast in ex-Stardew dev's new sim

Fans of life simulation games and former Stardew Valley enthusiasts now have a new urban experience to look forward to with the announcement of Sunkissed City. Crafted by Arthur 'Mr. Podunkian' Lee, a previous developer of Stardew Valley, this upcoming title swaps pastoral fields for the bustling streets of a vibrant coastal city filled with unique characters and ecological challenges. Sunkissed City will differ from its rural counterpart by offering activities such as nurturing DIY gardens, enjoying literature in parks, and socializing in cafes rather than traditional farming. Along with peaceful pastimes, players will encounter issues like aggressive wildlife, dwindling water life, sewer monsters, and mysterious migraines affecting the city's inhabitants. Eager gamers can currently add the game to their wishlist via its Steam page, and the expected launch is set for Q4 2024, with an initial PC release and console versions to follow.

In Sunkissed City, players will engage in a different type of life simulation that moves away from farming to explore activities more suited to an urban seaside setting such as gardening with 'plant-punks', fishing, dealing with environmental quests, mingling with an eclectic cast of city dwellers, and battling monsters in infested sewers. The game promises a blend of social interactions, adventure, and a focus on eco-conscious themes.

Sunkissed City builds upon the beloved mechanics of life-sim games, infusing them with new city-centric elements. Unlike Stardew Valley’s agricultural focus, Sunkissed City introduces players to a fresh simulation environment where urban life and its challenges take center stage. Arthur Lee's experience as a developer on Stardew Valley could provide a foundation of robust gameplay mechanics and storytelling that has enamored fans of the genre. With its announced late 2024 release, Sunkissed City might just be the metropolitan twist that life-sim aficionados are looking for.