I swear the theme of these is not to find the most unlike projects possible and put them together. Though, I can’t deny that’s how it’s been working out so far this year. But, as always, this feature is filled with titles you might have missed but definitely should be keeping an eye on.
Merchants of Rosewall
Big Blue Sky Games has a game on the horizon, and it’s …an online multiplayer shopkeeping sim? Color me intrigued. The indie developer didn’t unveil much tangible gameplay, but the vision is clear:
In Merchants of Rosewall, you’ll set up your own shop and fill it with items, wares, and other goods the citizens of Rosewall have always wanted. You will need plenty of resources, countless days of hard work, and a cast of talented and creative Companions to help you succeed in the cultural and commercial hub of this fantastic and intriguing land.
The team counts among its numbers a carefully cultivated and diverse group interested in creating a space dedicated to defeating crunch, protecting against layoffs, and empowering its workers — one of these being a member of the GI Fam, Suriel Vazquez.
Mediterranea Inferno
One of the simplest ways to communicate what you need to know about this game is that it’s nominated in the upcoming IGF Awards for the Nuovo Award, Excellence in Narrative, and the Seumas McNally Grand Prize. For anyone who doesn’t understand the significance of this, let me explain. The Grand Prize is, unsurprisingly, the top award of the show and likewise narrative excellence speaks for itself. To get a nod in both of these categories, a game has to have a special spark indie fans should take note of.
However, the last category is the one that piqued my interest. The Nuovo Award is a space to celebrate the most, shall we say, unique experiences our industry has to offer. To earn a place in all three groups indicates a wildly compelling game. If this has caught your interest, the title is actually available right now, having coming to consoles this week.
Quilts and Cats of Calico
And if you need a break after exploring that vortex of unhinged energy, here come the cats. You can make their little fuzzy faces light up by puzzling together some nap-ready quilts in this board game-made-video-game.
It’s comforting, wholesome, and satisfying. Plus, it also just released yesterday. I’ll warn any players looking to attempt jumping immediately from the last game into this one, the tonal shift is an actual, physical sensation you don’t often feel. So, look forward to that.
Leave a Reply