Animal Crossing: New Horizons has evolved greatly over the last few years, but with no new free updates planned after the release of Happy Home Paradise, it might be time to explore similar life simulator games. The genre houses many different types of games, ranging from business running simulations like Moonlighter to fantasy farming simulators like My Time at Portia. Many have lots in common with Animal Crossing, making them perfect choices for players who may be considering saying goodbye to their island in 2022.
There are many games that capture the spirit of Animal Crossing, from Spiritfarer to A Short Hike, but there’s also a wide variety of newer games both in development and recently released for PC and Nintendo Switch that do the same. If someone is looking to play a wholly new life sim, then there are definitely projects currently under the radar for people to experience at a low price. Many of these games feature similar gameplay elements to Animal Crossing, as well as their own endearing aesthetics that incorporate a variety of different art styles.
Players looking for an Animal Crossing fix may find enjoyment in farming simulators inspired by Stardew Valley that focus on country and town living. These games often have a similar variety of characters to talk to and houses to decorate on top of in-depth farm management. Upcoming projects from both the creator of Stardew Valley and the team behind Sun Haven fall into this category, and should scratch a similar itch to Animal Crossing: New Horizons.
Stardew Valley’s Creator Has Made Haunted Chocolatier
While Stardew Valley is similar to games like Harvest Moon and Story of Seasons, it’s nonetheless a great option for those looking to emulate Animal Crossing by interacting with villagers, building houses, and relaxing. Most fans of Animal Crossing likely have at least heard of Stardew Valley, as it’s been out for a while, and that’s where ConcernedApe’s new project comes in. From the initial trailers, Haunted Chocolatier is different from Stardew with an eerier base atmosphere and a new delicacy to tackle, but still has a similar art style.
Players take on the role of a new chocolatier running a mansion and it seems that like Stardew Valley and Animal Crossing, there will be characters and villagers to develop relationships with as well as daily tasks to complete. The thing that makes it different so far is its themes – spirits float around the overworld and the town is covered in snow. While its developer has not confirmed the game for any platform other than PC, it could definitely be a great alternative to traditional farming simulators when it releases.
Sun Haven Captures Animal Crossing’s Relaxing Gameplay
Available for PC right now for those who have already completed Stardew Valley and Animal Crossing is another farming game, Sun Haven, which integrates D&D into farming gameplay with magic, dragons, and potions. It’s currently in Early Access on Steam, but the game has online co-op out of the gate and even a progression system with a complete story. This means that more content will continue to come out for Sun Haven as the year progresses, making it a game worth following for those after a new Animal Crossing-style experience.
Regardless of what someone likes about New Horizons, they’ll be able to find other games that satisfy the need to kick back, relax, and complete everyday tasks. Other games released in 2021 like Cozy Grove and Chicory: A Colorful Tale give a better approximation of what it’s like to talk to animals in Animal Crossing: New Horizons. However, for those looking for a gameplay experience focused around self-sustainment and everyday social interactions, Sun Haven, Stardew Valley, and Haunted Chocolatier are all great places to start.
