Cozy games continue to bring new relaxing experiences to audiences, with the latest offering from Meadow Studios,Light Up the Town, taking players to a wholesome snowy town in need of vibrant holiday decorations.Light Up The Townwill be the second outing from the indie studio, after its VR espionage thrillerHeartshot, and the adorable change in direction aims to transport players to a whole new realm of Christmas cheer with an exclusive launch on PC viaSteam.
While AAAgames likeAnimal Crossinghelped to introduce more laid-back titles to casual audiences, the success of indie titles likeStardew Valleyhelped to fully establish the genre of “cozy” games that has continued to grow in popularity over the last decade. Blending the trademark elements of a cozy title while adding a splash of festive nostalgia,Light Up The Townlooks to join the ranks of wholesome games that are perfect for the holidays.
InLight Up The Town, players take on the role of the cute little ferret Bean, as she decorates the town of Bellflower, Colorado ahead of the Winter Festival. Bean’s father, Chuck, is the local electrician but has fallen ill ahead of the big celebration. Players must guide Bean through the snowy village and bring light to a community caught in darkness.Light Up The Townis touted as acozy decorating video gamethat lets players bring their imagination to life with holiday cheer. Players can “click anywhere” while tossing around colorful string lights, which can be customized with varying sizes and rotations to create a stunning Christmas design. Bean can also collect hidden coins around Bellflower, which can be used to purchase even more vibrant decorations to make the ultimate magical display for the Winter Festival.
Light Up The Town Official Announcement Trailer
The announcement trailer forLight Up The Towngives players a sneak preview of the relaxing gameplay, as well as a look at Bean and some of the NPCs that audiences will encounter. Bean will not only be able to decorate Bellflower with dazzling lights, but she can also distribute Christmas gifts to the villagers. Additionally, thesimple yet stunning video game graphicshelp add the familiar wholesome vibe that has become a hallmark of the cozy genre. While an official release date has not yet been confirmed, interested players can nowwishlistLight Up The Townon Steam.
There have been an arguably surprising variety ofvideo games set during Christmasreleased over the years, ranging from comedically dark titles likeViscera Cleanup Detail: Santa’s Rampageto the challenging retro platformerDaze Before Christmas. For audiences looking for a family-friendly holiday jaunt with simple yet aesthetically pleasing gameplay,Light Up The Townmay be one to keep an eye on.
