NIS America announced today that Village in the Shade is finally available in North America. The game, which mixes farming sims with a dark adventure campaign, has been available in Japan for several months now.
Developed by Nippon Ichi Software team members previously responsible for the Yomawari series, Village in the Shade presents the Japanese village of Kagatsu. It is located in the mountains, surrounded by a darkness that isn't immediately apparent, but which you will come to recognize.
Apparently, the people who live in Kagatsu follow a few simple rules that ensure their survival: don't talk to strangers, don't leave the village, and, whatever you do, don't go out at night.
That doesn't sound ominous at all, does it?
Some of us were born to farm, and we don't care so much about existential dread, or shadows with teeth. For us, the game also includes the "Village in the Sunshine" mode, which prevents you from exploring the darker aspects. Just farm, hunt, fish, and make merry... all at the pace you like.
Here's the full list of features from today's press release:
Unsettle Down: Make your new home feel like home! Buy furniture in town to decorate your house, then craft fences and other items with the resources you've gathered around your farm.
Festivals and Fun: Experience traditional Japanese festivals and activities, like the summer festival and cherry-blossom viewing. Get closer to your neighbours as you enjoy laid-back living.
Secrets Aren't Meant to be Shared: Discover the truth about Kagatsu at your own risk, or follow the rules and keep from seeing a part of the village you don't want to.
Village in the Shade looks super interesting to me. If you feel similarly, look for it on Switch, Switch 2, PlayStation 5, or PC. It currently retails for $49.99/£49.99. For more details, check out the official site.
