Already a sensation in Japan and Asia, Nippon Ichi’s sinister “cosy” game Village in the Shade is launching worldwide on the PS5 from 27th October, just in time for Halloween.
The game, which has sold over 100k copies already overseas, is your typical Harvest Moon-esque crop-’em-up – well, that’s what it’d like you to believe.
Here’s what the press release says:
“Welcome to Kagatsu, a Japanese mountain village with plenty of secrets. In this brand-new, hand-painted farming sim, you’ll plant crops, customise 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.”
Amusingly, there is a non-horror mode which strips out the spooky aspects, but I think if you’re planning to play this, you’re probably looking for something a little different to the average Stardew Valley clone.
Speaking of which, a Collector’s Edition is available to pre-order from the NIS America store, which includes a physical copy of the PS5 game plus a variety of bonuses, all for $89.99. You can order that through here.
Are you interested in this game? Be careful who you speak to in the comments section below.