Initial release date: 2024
Platforms: Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Microsoft Windows, Xbox Series X and Series S
Genres: Simulation video game, Adventure game, Indie game, Casual game
Developer:Â Freetime Studio
Publisher:Â Soedesco
Engine:Â Unreal Engine 5
Garden Witch Life is a cozy, slow-paced story that incorporates every genre trope. This may sound like it lacks originality and has little enthusiasm. However, this is not the case. The fun-filled fantasy world has a healthy edge that will make you smile. Furthermore, the assignments are simple to understand, and I enjoyed the straightforward approach. However, the creator has included numerous surprising twists and turns to keep you on your toes. This was fantastic since it kept things from becoming stale.
SOEDESCO launched this fantasy life simulator produced by FreetimeStudio. Furthermore, it is a single-player adventure set in a 3D semi-open universe. As a result, you are free to explore as you like, yet some progression components prohibit you from discovering everything at once. This was wonderful since it kept you busy while preventing you from speeding ahead.
Garden Witch Life tells a familiar story.
This genre has a desperate edge, and failure swiftly leads to success. Garden Witch Life applies this design to all it does. As a result, if you’ve seen enough of this genre, there won’t be any surprises. However, if you are new to anything or are a bit of a jack of all trades, you will like the quirky charms.
You play the role of a down-and-out alchemist who was recently fired. With the weight of the world on her shoulders, she does not want to return home as a failure. However, her fortunes alter when she arrives at a small island. The people require her assistance, and the sense of community is lacking. Working together and fulfilling missions allows the would-be witch to find a new home and help those around her.
This isn’t the most unique plot I’ve seen, but I enjoyed the characters and the way the action unfolded. Furthermore, the duties were entertaining, and exploring the little but fascinating universe was never boring.
A comfy game loop.
Garden Witch Life, like its counterparts, requires you to farm, mine, and clean up your environment. The hero is handed an abandoned house, which they must clean up and decorate at their liking. Along the journey, you are instructed to grow crops and remove any negative items. Furthermore, you’ll find hidden locations and a variety of chests to unlock.
As you make discoveries, you’ll have access to new recipes and methods for crafting objects. There is also a steady tool advancement mechanism to keep everything in balance. This was the slowest part of the fundamental gameplay, which may frustrate you. Money is scarce, therefore finding the best instruments to enhance your earnings was a challenge. However, after you uncover the mine and discover hidden riches, things become easier.
In addition, you can pet and appreciate the animals. Despite the fact that it was optional, I found it enjoyable. Interaction with your other villagers was not always required however. However, if you aid them, you may be rewarded with seeds, food, or money. As a result, keeping an eye on your neighbours and spending time with them was beneficial.
Do as much or as little as you like.
The hero has limited stamina, and their days are brief. As a result, you must strive to pack a lot of energy-consuming tasks into a little window. This may seem worrisome, but it was not. There are no expectations on your time. You can do as much or as little as you like. You are welcome to enjoy a pleasant day in the village. Alternatively, you might pluck weeds and cook food. In any case, you have complete control over your productivity.
Garden Witch Life is colorful and appealing to look at.
The developer has gone all out with the outrageous color. The color is striking, and I admired the mix of light and shadow. Furthermore, the fantasy edge features a little futuristic look. As a result, it was unusual but interesting. Though Garden Witch Life was visually appealing, I encountered a few problems along the way. The mine was the worst offender, since I plunged through the world and became trapped underwater for a long time. Fortunately, the character reset option resolved this ridiculous and sad issue.
The audio is considerably muffled in comparison. The quiet soundtrack allows the positive action to take center stage. Furthermore, the realistic sound effects are appropriate for each tool you use. This was pleasant but not extraordinary. I favor this method over one that takes advantage of the magical edge.
Tight controls.
Garden Witch Life can be played using a controller or a mouse and keyboard. I tested the latter and found the interface to be simple to understand. Furthermore, the key bindings have been fine-tuned to keep things simple. I didn’t try a gamepad, but I assume it would be responsive and simple to use.
The action is centered on a peaceful and leisurely procedure. Progress can be difficult, but it was rarely tedious. Additionally, the exploration components were enjoyable when immersed in the fantasy universe. As a result, there is lots of replay value if you enjoy a calm living.
Garden Witch Life is an enjoyable experience.
The creator did an excellent job with this game. The motion is simple to understand, and you never feel out of your depth. Furthermore, I like the character interactions and the engaging quests. Furthermore, the ability to produce crops and travel the world was rarely abused. As a result, it is a delightful game, and I recommend purchasing it here! Can you make the weird island your home? Fix up your house, plant some vegetables, and help the villagers.
Review Overview
Gameplay: 85%
Controls: 88%
Aesthetics: 92%
Content: 90%
Accessibility: 89%
Value: 86%
Overall: 88%
VERY GOOD!
Summary: Garden Witch Life captures the joy of a whimsical life simulator by combining farming, crafts, and spell-casting in a fun way. The gameplay is fascinating, with the ideal blend of difficulty and relaxation. The aesthetics are superb, with stunning, detailed sceneries that bring the mystical world to life. Controls are responsive and user-friendly, ensuring a smooth experience for players of all skill levels. The game appeals to a wide range of audiences thanks to its rich content and good accessibility features. Overall, it’s an excellent adventure for anyone who want a magical, immersive experience.