Tiny villagers, big dreams: A cozy RPG from former Bethesda and BioWare devs

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As a seasoned gamer with a soft spot for heartwarming stories and immersive gameplay, I can confidently say that Hawthorn has piqued my interest like no other in recent memory. Having spent countless hours cultivating virtual fields as a humble farmer or crafting intricate worlds as a developer at Bethesda and BioWare, the prospect of stepping into the shoes of a forest animal tasked with rebuilding a village resonates deeply with me.

As a devoted admirer, I can’t help but feel a sense of excitement for the refreshingly simple Redwall-esque vibe that we’ll be experiencing in 2024. It’s comforting to know that NEARstudios, an exceptional team comprised of veterans from Bethesda, BioWare, and Naughty Dog, are steering the ship for this project.

It’s called Hawthorn, it’s a sandbox RPG and life sim, and we’re already in love.

A cozy adventure with woodland creatures

In the enchanting town of Hawthorn, you assume the part of various woodland creatures banding together to revitalize an abandoned trading post, transforming it into a vibrant village. From wise owls adorning stylish caps to playful otters sipping miniature ale, this game merges the endearing charm of Redwall with the familiar mechanics of agriculture, craftsmanship, and construction.

Farming and feasting from a mouse’s perspective

The gameplay trailer shows familiar life-sim activities, but with a twist – all from the tiny perspective of a mouse. Imagine tending a farm where towering pumpkins and corn surround you. And these oversized crops aren’t just for eating – they also serve as decorations for your cozy village. Watching the mouse struggle to haul a giant pumpkin home is oddly charming – small hero, big goals.

In Hawthorn, life isn’t just about grinding away. The trailer hints at heartfelt scenes, such as when I, the mouse, organize a vibrant feast for my fellow villagers. Tiny beings flock together in joy, dancing and clinking their miniature cups in camaraderie. But wait, there’s more! There’s also an oddball sport where I hop on an owl’s back to play a sky-bound version of basketball.

Hawthorn’s launch date hasn’t been announced yet, but feel free to add it to your Steam wishlist in anticipation. If the image of a village inhabited by small characters with large personalities stirs a soft spot in your heart, then perhaps this life simulation game is one you’ve been unknowingly yearning for.

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2024-10-10 17:09