Chris InglisGarden of the Sea is a charming and relaxing adventure game developed by Neat Corporation and published by Future Friends Games. The game has already been out on VR platforms and released in non-VR format on October 3 for PC and October 24 for Nintendo Switch. It combines elements of farming, crafting, and exploration at a relaxed pace and is set in a picturesque island environment. You are tasked with restoring a once-thriving community by growing crops, befriending animals, and uncovering the island’s mysteries.
The game has you waking up on a small, overgrown island with no company except the local animals and lapping waves. As you explore the immediate area, you discover remnants of the island’s past and encounter friendly creatures who request materials in exchange for useful items. The overarching goal is to restore the island to its former glory by solving puzzles, gathering resources, farming, and building a thriving community.
Garden of the Sea offers a mix of activities that cater to both relaxation and adventure. You can plant and harvest crops, befriend animals, and explore various biomes, each with its own unique challenges and rewards. The game features intuitive controls and tutorials that make it easy for players to get started. You can plant seeds and grow plants, care for local animals, go fishing, cook new dishes with new ingredients, use a boat to get to other lands, complete quests to unlock new adventures, creatures, and much more.
I played this with my 7-year-old daughter, and she was able to progress by looking at the images presented that matched items found within that area and find those without too much prompting from me. If she happened to drop something in the water by accident, it would respawn nearby, and if you yourself fall into the water, you will respawn with no penalty, so it’s a very beginner friendly game.
The game’s visuals are stunning, with vibrant colours and detailed environments that create a soothing and immersive atmosphere. The hand-drawn art style adds a personal touch, making the world feel alive and inviting. The audio complements the visuals perfectly, with a calming soundtrack and charming sound effects that enhance the overall experience.
Overall, Garden of the Sea is a delightful game that offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure and is fun for all ages. Its charming visuals, soothing soundtrack, and engaging gameplay make it worth a play and has something for everyone.
This review utilised a key provided by Future Friends Games and Garden of the Sea is out now on Steam, Meta Quest, PlayStation and Nintendo Switch.
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