All posts tagged in Stardew Valley
May 25, 2017
[dropcap]R[/dropcap]E:Legend is one of the most anticipated games of the year. It combines games like Animal Crossing, Stardew Valley, Fantasy Life and more. The game published by Square Enix, just received a shiny new website with some interesting new details about the games chore mechanics. In our latest detailed preview we learned a lot about farming and exploring. You can read the full preview and watch the first gameplay trailer of RE:Legend right here.
Below are some new information and screenshots from RE:Legend. The game is set to release for Playstation 4, Xbox One, PC and is currently rumored for a release on Nintendo Switch as well.
Magnus Raising
Mythical creatures known as “Magnus” roams the land of Ethia, the world where Vokka island resides. Every single Magnus is tamable and they will aid you in many ways such as combat, farming, fishing, travelling and so much more! They will also grow differently depending on your care!
Farming
Cultivate the farm of Vokka island to acquire food and materials for the village or yourself. Growing crops are not limited to land as Vokka island allows you to grow crops and keep exotic fishes underwater! Dive into the crystal clear water and farm to your heart content!
Combat
World of Ethia is filled with dangerous wild life and combat skills are essential for survival. Wield any weapon you desire at any given time and you are not restricted by weapon classes. You can also mount your beloved Magnus to combat through your adventure!
Vokka Village
Vokka Village is where you new life begins! Befriend local villagers and join exciting festivals together to have a good time. Pay attention to their needs and help them out in their daily lives so they can help you retrieve your lost memories.
Life Skills
Practice makes perfect! You will gain living skills as you practice them frequently.They level-up organically as you carry out the activities. Example Living Skills: Mining, Fishing, Logging, Crafting, Farming, Weaponry and much more!
Multiplayer
While you can enjoy the game alone, why not share the fun with your friends?! Carry out the activities together and share the precious memories! Together you shall conquer the world! Or just kick back and relax while your friend do all the work! Number of Players: 1 – 4
- May 7, 2017
[dropcap]S[/dropcap]taxel was developed by Indie Studio Plukit. Staxel is a sandbox farming game. In this game you can tend to crops, raise cute animals, and build a village. The game is currently in development as the developer will be adding more features in the months to come. This preview was played exclusively in single mode, however you can also team up with your friends in the multiplayer part of the game.
Staxel Character Creation
Before you begin the game, you must create your character. You choose the gender, race (human or elf currently), and personality on the first step. The next step is to choose the hair style. From the screenshot above, you can see that I chose the steampunk top hat. The customization of the head piece is neat and gives you other options such as a Jack’O’Lantern, a wolf, and Egyptian themed hair and more. The next step is to choose the face of your character. The face determines the shape and the eyes. This is also the step where you change your eye color as well. The last step consists of you choosing the color of the top, pants, and shoes. You do not currently have a huge selection in clothing styles but this might be added upon later in development.
Staxel Gameplay
After you create your character, you begin the tutorial. The tutorial starts off in your home. It is recommended that you first go to your bed so that your “home” is saved (you will see why this is important later). The first character you meet is Farm Fan. She helps guide you through the tutorial and the basic mechanics of the game. She asks if you are a dog or cat person which determines what pet you will receive. The look of the animal is randomly generated. For the first time I played, I had a Dalmatian and the second time I had a Beagle looking dog, so cute!
The next part of the tutorial is to explore town and the various buildings. The first building you explore is the tavern. Then the tutorial recommends you go visit the various Merchants in the town square. The town square is also where festivals are held (similiar to Animal Crossing). The first merchant you will be visiting is Morgan as she sells seeds. The Supermarket also sells seeds as well as a variety of goods. In a later tutorial quest, you will be visiting the supermarket so that you can buy a pet bowl and pet food. One feature that I find is nice is that no matter what you select it will tell you the cost in petals (currency of the game) as well as what the object is. You get a decent amount of money fulfilling tutorial quests so it’s recommended you do them.
In the top left of the screen, you can see where there is an indicator that lists the date (Season, number) as well as what time of day it is. There are two cycles to the typical Staxel day: Day and Night. However, what I find is neat about Staxel days is that the Day and Night cycles are split into smaller proportions. This gives you a better indicator of the time passing and how close you are to nighttime. A typical Staxel day is about ten minutes.
The controls for Staxel are fluid using keyboard and mouse as well as a game controller (I used an Xbox One controller). The controls are listed clearly in the controls menu and there is no lag when switching between various items. I noticed that occasionally the game camera would move upwards when speaking with a villager but it was a minor annoyance. A neat feature that the developers added in was that by holding the default action button, you can increase the till size. For example, instead of tilling a field square by square, you can do a 3 x 5 field instead. It helps save time when wanting to plant a lot of crops.
Exploration
I took the liberty of exploring the world of Staxel instead of doing the quests. I found that Staxel is quite rich in pixellated detail but it was the vivid colors that really made it pop. It wasn’t before long that I found myself standing on a beach.
It is not clear yet whether standing on the water is intentional. Like other farming games, Staxel has weather as well. As you can see from the above screenshot, it is currently raining. Rain is neat since you don’t have to water your crops and you can devote yourself to exploring instead.
If you have played any open sandbox game, then you will know the importance of being able to fast travel back to your home base. As long as you get inside your bed, you will be able to “return to home” in the menu, no matter how far away you are. I went quite far into the ocean and instantly appeared back into my house.
Different playthroughs will not give you different areas to explore. This is subject to change as the Developers could add in a feature where the world you create is randomly generated each and every time.
Conclusion
Staxel is a neat mash up of Minecraft, Stardew Valley, and Animal Crossing. The developers have started off with a good platform to build off of. This game requires a lot of time but not a lot of effort. If you are looking for a game where you can have a lot of control and relax while doing it, Staxel would be the perfect fit.
For some Staxel Gameplay Footage, check out our article here. A special thank you to the developer for providing us with a copy to preview.
- May 5, 2017
[dropcap]S[/dropcap]tardew Valley is one of the most popular indie games every released. It has won over the hearts of Harvest Moon, Story of Seasons and Animal Crossing fans within the shortest time. With it’s rich gameplay, and relaxing atmosphere the game is an absolute must play. ConcernedApe The developer behind Stardew Valley has recently announced that a coop Multiplayer would be added to the game. In addition to the multiplayer update a Nintendo Switch Version of the game is also set to release in summer of 2017. To take the game to the next level – a Stardew Valley Collector’s Edition has been released.
Chucklefish the publisher behind Stardew Valley has recently released a collectors edition of the game. While the published images of the edition looked promising, here is another deeper look at what you will get with the Stardew Valley Collector’s Edition!
- Apr 24, 2017
[dropcap]C[/dropcap]oncernedApe the developer behind Stardew Valley has announced that version 1.2 is now live for Stardew Valley. The new update adds support for 7 more languages; English, German, Spanish, Russian, Japanese, Simplified Chinese and Brazilian-Portuguese. The patch also comes with some controller improvements. The full patch notes can be found below. The Update is currently only available to PC users, for the console update is on the way.
Stardew Valley is set to release on Nintendo Switch this summer alongside the long awaited Multiplayer mode for the game.
Patch Notes
- Translations for German, Spanish, Brazilian Portuguese, Russian, Japanese and Simplified Chinese.
- When using a controller, the cursor will snap between menu buttons by default. If you disable that, the cursor will instead accelerate while moving.
- When using a controller, pressing the back button will skip events that are skippable.
- Exit to Title has returned.
Bug Fixes
- Fixed lighting shader not covering the whole screen on Mac and Linux.
- Switching from “Windowed Borderless” to “Fullscreen” should now go straight to fullscreen instead of Windowed mode.
- Wallpapers and floors no longer have a tile placement indicator showing a random object
- Increased stability of preference-saving code. This should fix infrequent crashes that require the player to delete startup_preferences.
- Fixed a crash that can happen when a pig tries to spawn a truffle but there’s no space for it.
- Fixed a couple of rare crashes that could have occurred at any time during the game.
- Fixed a typo of the word ‘pronounce’ in the marriage event.
- Fixed the player not getting the recipe for Cookies if they skip Evelyn’s event.
- Farming level now affects crop yield prior to level 10
- Apr 21, 2017
[dropcap]E[/dropcap]3 is the annual video games convention in California. For the first time the event will be open to the public. E3 is the second Christmas for every gamer in the world, with dozens of new announcements, gameplay footage and in-depth information about everyones favorite video games. Reggie, president of Nintendo North America has promised “we’re gonna have a big E3 this year”. The company will occupy an equal amount of space compared to Sony and Microsoft at the convention center in Los Angeles this year for the first time. Here are our Nintendo E3 Predictions.
Pikmin 4
Hey! Pikmin has just ben re-announced for the Nintendo 3DS with a first trailer and some more details. Pikmin 4 is in development for quite some time Miyamoto said, but no details have been given on the video game. It is safe to assume that it will be a Nintendo Switch game, and chances are we will hear more about it at this years Nintendo E3 event.
Likelihood – Hot ?
Smash Brothers Switch
Super Smash Brothers on the Nintendo 3DS has sold more than 8 Million copies since it’s release in October 2014, making the game the most popular releases in it’s franchise. Smash Bros would make a perfect fit on the Nintendo Switch with couch co-op as well as online multilayer options. A new Smash Bros on the Nintendo Switch is happening sooner or later, the question will be whether Nintendo is ready to announce the game yet or not.
Likelihood – Low
Animal Crossing Switch
Animal Crossing is one of the most beloved franchises on any Nintendo system. With the latest game released in 2012, Nintendo sold more than 10 Million copies and has managed to extend it’s fanbase by millions. It is sure that a new Animal Crossing will come to the Nintendo Switch. Reggie has also been making vague comments, further fueling the rumors. As he states “our philosophy at Nintendo is to have one great experience of each franchise on each console. So, in the future, who knows when – you can anticipate that all our big franchises will be addressed”. The last Animal Crossing release is more than 5 years ago, a new game could be teased at this years E3.
Likelihood – Medium
Animal Crossing Mobile
The Animal Crossing Smartphone app has been delayed several times. Now the app is left with no concrete release date. Rumors are emerging that Nintendo delayed the app in order to be able to announce it alongside a new Animal Crossing game on the Nintendo Switch. The developers have stated at the beginning, that the app would tie in with another Animal Crossing game which could be New Leaf, or a whole new experience on the Switch.
Likelihood – Medium
Zelda Breath of the Wild Expansion Details
The Zelda: Breath of the Wild Expansion Pass is currently on sale for $19.99 on the Nintendo eShop. While most details like a new difficulty and dungeons have been announced, Nintendo could further detail the pass, and perhaps add some more features to it. While this is a far stretch, Zelda fans can always hope!
Likelihood – Low
Metroid Prime
Fans of the series have been waiting for a new main series game a long time. The E3 could make a great opportunity to tease a new Metroid game for the Nintendo Switch. Nintendo had announced a spin off game of the beloved Metroid series at the E3 in 2015. Metroid Prime: Federation Force was released on August 19th of 2016 on the Nintendo 3ds, but never became as popular as the main Metroid Prime games. The game was received poorly with a Metacritic score of 64%.
Likelihood – Medium
Snipper Clips Expansion
Sniperclips: Cut it Out together is one of the best Switch launch titles. It brings people together, has an adorable look and is showcasing what the Nintendo Switch represents the best – from all games available so far. The game is still #1 on the eShop charts. However Snipperclips comes with only 61 stages which most of them can be completed rather quickly. Given the huge success of the game, it will be interesting to see if Nintendo plans to further support the game with a DLC pack. If you like you can read our review and take on Snipperclips here.
Likelihood – Medium
Pokémon Stars
The recently announced Pokémon on Nintendo Switch has been in the dark since Nintendo first put the Pokémon logo on the list of games coming to the new hybrid console. No details or further information have been given on the highly anticipated Pokémon game. Chances are Nintendo will use the E3 to tease the video game a little more.
Likelihood – Hot ?
Mario Odyssey
The game is set for a release this Holiday season, but all we have seen so far was a trailer and minimal details on the gameplay. Nintendo will most likely use it’s moment of fame at the E3 to further showcase the next installment in the Mario franchise.
Likelihood – Hot ?
3rd Party Developers
3rd Party developers will most likely use the E3 to highlight their latest Nintendo Switch games as well. Not much is known about the upcoming Story of Seasons on the Switch. Stardew Valley on the other hand is going to be released this Summer with a Multiplayer mode on Nintendos latest console.
Bethesda is expected to release some The Elder Scrolls: Skyrim footage running on the Switch. And last but not least Dragon Quest XI will be released on 3DS and Playstation 4 on July 29th with the Switch release a little later, it is possible that Square Enix, developer behind the game will show some first footage of the game running on the Switch.
Electronic Arts may show some more Fifa 18 gameplay, as they promised it will not be a port, but a dedicated game for the Switch, it may be exciting to see how EA adjusts the popular soccer game to the hybrid console! If appropriate we will update the list as we get closer to this years E3.
- Apr 18, 2017
[dropcap]I[/dropcap]f Harvest Moon, would meet Minecraft and adds a bit of Animal Crossing then the result would be Staxel. This game is packed with features, not only will you be able to maintain and build your very own farm, but there are also tons of hobbies to get stuck with. Staxel offers a great variety of gameplay elements. You can even invite your friends and build your very own village together. It’s needless to say that Staxel is one the rising stars amongst fans of video games like Harvest Moon, Stardew Valley and Animal Crossing.
Enter to Win!
Staxel is currently in early development, but the team is hard at work at making this game as good as it can get. We have teamed up with Plukit the developer behind Staxel to give away a few early access download keys to the game! All you will have to do to participate in the giveaway, is leave a comment below, and let us know why you want to play Staxel, and what it is you are most excited about!This contest will close on April, 23rd – 9pm PT. Winners will be randomly selected and notified by April, 24th 9pm PT.
If you want to learn more about Staxel check out our preview here and some early gameplay footage here.
What is Staxel?
‘Staxel – Sprout Edition’ is now available! In this early version of Staxel you start with an overgrown, old farm which needs a lot of love. Grow crops, tend to animals, repair and upgrade your rundown home! Buy now, and watch your ‘Sprout Edition’ grow with Staxel’s continuous development and regular updates.Experience Village LifeAs the village’s newest resident there’s a lot to look forward to. The village is filled with all sorts of colourful characters to meet and befriend. Sure, they might have some favours to ask of you, but helping them out might bring unexpected rewards! When you’re not hanging out with the villagers or working on the farm, you could be pursuing a new hobby, completing one of many collections, spending your hard earned money in the local stores, or working on improvements to the village. Your new neighbors would certainly appreciate your help!Nurture Your FarmPut down your roots and settle into your life as the village’s new farmer. Starting out with an old, run-down home and farmland reclaimed by the wilderness, it’s up to you to turn this place around. Plant seeds, carefully tend to your crops, take care of your animals, and build improvements to your farm. Don’t forget‐if you look after your farm it will look after you!Customise Your SandboxStaxel is set in a voxel-based sandbox world. You can alter your surroundings in any way you like, and with a rich selection of in-game materials and a simple, easy-to-use approach to modding, you really can create your own unique world within the game. Will you grow the village while keeping its rustic charm, or take it in an entirely new direction? Perhaps you’d rather leave the village and focus on your own projects? It’s all up to you, and your creativity is just the tool for the job! - Apr 13, 2017
[dropcap]T[/dropcap]he Nintendo Switch has outsold the competition in Japan since the day it launched. While many are skeptic of the long term success of the console, for the time being the Switch seems to be unstoppable. The next few months will show if the Switch can keep up the pace or if it will loose ground similar to the Wii U.
The Nintendo Switch has sold more than 904.000 Units in the U.S alone since it’s launch. This puts the hybrid console well ahead of strong competitors like Sony and Microsoft. While this doesn’t mean the Switch will continue to outsell it’s competition, it sure is a step into the right direction. As well as in the U.S the Nintendo Switch Outsells it’s competition in Japan as well.
Japan hardware charts (4/3 – 4/9):
Switch 41.193
New 3DS LL 19.533
PS4 18.022
PS4 Pro 6.490
PS Vita 5.987
New 3DS 1.523
PlayStation3 704
Wii U 358
Xbox One 132Nintendo is seeing more 3rd party support than it has for the Wii U. Skyrim, Payday2, Fifa, Stardew Valley and other major 3rd party games are getting a release on Nintendos latest console this year. For a full list of the most exciting Switch games to come this year, check out this list.
- Apr 11, 2017
[dropcap]S[/dropcap]tardew Valley is one of the most popular indie games every released. It has won over the hearts of Harvest Moon, Story of Seasons and Animal Crossing fans within the shortest time. With it’s rich gameplay, and relaxing atmosphere the game is an absolute must play. ConcernedApe The developer of Stardew Valley has recently announced that a coop Multiplayer would be added to the game. In addition to the multiplayer update a Nintendo Switch Version of the game is also set to release in summer of 2017.
If this wasn’t enough already, publisher Chucklefish has released a stunning Stardew Valley Collector’s Edition, available now. It includes the beautiful Stardew Valley map, the beloved soundtrack and more. Chucklefish has teamed up with 505 Games and ConcernedApe to produce this Collector’s Edition, which includes the following goodies.
Stardew Valley Collector’s Edition
- A copy of Stardew Valley for Xbox One or PlayStation 4
- A disc containing the Collector’s Edition Soundtrack featuring 33 hand-picked tracks
- Exclusive fold-out map of Stardew Valley, illustrated by Kari Fry
- A Mini-Guidebook created by the artist and author of the full guidebook, Kari Fry
The Stardew Valley Collector’s Edition can be purchased at retail stores for the PlayStation 4 and Xbox One in North America for $29.99. The game will be also available in UK, Australia, New Zealand, the Middle East, Africa, the Netherlands and Scandinavia on April 13!
