If you're a fan of Stardew Valley, odds are, you're always looking for more games like it. Nearly a decade since Stardew released, there have been countless imitators, but there are still plenty of cozy games and life sims that put their unique stamp on the genre. And if you also happen to be a fan of Studio Ghibli movies, then there's a perfect game for you right now — and you can play it for free.
Releasing in 2026, Starsand Island on Steam is a fun blend of Stardew Valley-like gameplay with a really nice Studio Ghibli aesthetic. Even its cover art is reminiscent of 2014's When Marnie Was There, which was released in the U.S. in 2015. "Befriend adorable animals, enjoy a relaxing fishing trip, and explore the enchanting Moonlit Forest. Find your quiet seaside retreat and rediscover life's simple joys," reads the game's description.
Starsand Island currently has a demo available on Steam, which means you can check it out for free while we wait for the full launch. Upon reaching the island, you can enjoy "slow-paced days spent bonding with adorable capybaras, cats, and dogs" while also exploring the mystical forest nearby or fishing from...
