Imagine a fusion of the enchanting rural life of Stardew Valley with the epic fantasy universe of Skyrim, and you’ll start to get an idea of what to expect from Hawthorn. This whimsical sandbox RPG is being crafted by a talented team of former developers from top gaming studios like Bethesda, BioWare, and Naughty Dog.

Hawthorn represents the first venture of the indie game development studio, NEARstudios. At the helm are industry veterans Heather Cerlan and Jason Richardson. Cerlan, known for her work as a senior artist on projects like Starfield and The Last of Us, and Richardson, who contributed to titles such as Mass Effect Andromeda and Fallout 76, aim to bring something truly unique to the gaming world. Additionally, the team has the creative insight of Bruce Nesmith, who served as the lead designer for Skyrim, enhancing the potential and anticipation surrounding Hawthorn.

The world of Hawthorn is set in the idyllic Windermere Valley, a region reminiscent of classic fairytales. In this quaint realm, players inhabit the roles of charming woodland creatures, living harmoniously alongside a community of fellow animals, each with their own stories to tell. With both single-player and cooperative gameplay options, players can immerse themselves in activities like farming, fishing, and resource exploration. While you rebuild and personalize woodland homes in the game, you can also experience the changing of seasons, adding dynamic and varied experiences to the game—aspects that might remind players of Animal Crossing.

The vibe of Hawthorn draws heavily from Victorian-era European fairytales. This nostalgia is blended with the spirit of anthropomorphic animal adventures popular in the 80s and 90s, creating a distinctive and whimsical experience for modern players. Early glimpses of the game have already captured the hearts of those looking for a new, heartwarming gaming journey.

Although there is no official release date announced yet for Hawthorn, the anticipation is building within the gaming community. For those eager to ensure they don’t miss out, the game is already available to wishlist on Steam, allowing enthusiasts to secure their own piece of this enchanting universe. Keep an eye on future announcements as the game continues development—it’s sure to become a haven for lovers of both fantastical adventures and serene countryside escapades.