The rise of cosy gaming over recent years has meant we can all use video games to escape the stress of everyday life, and this is exactly what Starsand Island is hoping to help with. The creators of Starsand Island think modern life moves too fast, with commutes, long work days, and the constant flood of information from digital living making us all too stressed.
So they decided to make a video game about living on a tropical island, which doesn’t focus on checking quest boxes, or farming efficiency. They’ve already raised almost double their Kickstarter goal too, so clearly people are desperate for these chill island vibes.
In a hands-off session I was able to find out more about what to expect from my virtual vacation on Starsand Island, and came away very excited for the full game. The striking anime style was the first thing that jumped out when seeing the game in action, but it was the unique charm of this island life that really appealed to me.
The little details are what make Starsand Island tick, with all sorts of pointless little wonders to discover. I want to watch lines of ants march along a path and tadpoles darting around a pond, and if you want to do nothing more than take in the sights then this game is happy to accommodate this.
For all of you intrepid explorers, there are going to be plenty of fun ways to get around this island paradise and take in the world. From skateboarding to revving up a fat hog, you’ll be able to whizz from place to place and get to your destination in a flash. For those who want to be productive this will likely be pretty handy, because there’s plenty to do on Starsand Island.
There are a wide array of active activities that you can choose to partake in throughout this cosy game, like farming, decorating and crafting. These all have their own sense of magic too, like the delightful surprise of growing a massive melon. Decorating your house promises to be exceptionally granular for those who long to make their own personal oasis away from daily life, right down to the level of choosing fridge magnets to go on your fridge. Your island will be a unique place you’ve created in your time there, alongside all your new friends.
Starsand Island will feature a selection of NPCs who live their own lives in their own way. Apparently inspired by real people, you’ll be able to spend time and make memories with every one of them. This level of depth isn’t limited to humans either, with a vast selection of unique capybara making the island their home and living their own rodent lives alongside you all.
I’m excited to live my life on Starsand Island when it releases in full in Q4 of this year. This seaside paradise promises to be a cosy experience for all who need it, and I really hope it’s as enjoyable and relaxing as it looks.
Starsand Island is coming to PC in Q4 2025.
