The end of the year is almost upon us.
Yes, that means it’s nearly time to depart from the no man’s land between Christmas Day and New Year.
I do adore a sense of routine, but I will miss this elongated opportunity to relax and unwind, although I’ve unearthed one more gaming experience we can all squeeze in before our real world responsibilities return.
Relocat is an upcoming festive cosy game centred around preparing for New Year’s Eve that’s set to land in 2026, but you can actually sample the game right now courtesy of a free demo on Steam.
Developed by ahhTrevor, Relocat sees you – perhaps unsurprisingly – take on the role of a young cat who finds themselves preparing for the New Year in a cosy village.
“Make gifts, help your neighbours, and decide who to trust — because behind the festive lights, change is coming, and the holiday may become your first step into adulthood,” the game teases.
Players will take gift orders, decorate and upgrade their humble abode, and slowly build up a new life as they manage their hunger, happiness, and energy.
A Very Wholesome Cosy Adventure
Certainly, it’s an apt time to try Relocat thanks to its festive look but the New Year influence will speak to many beyond the winter-themed aesthetics, I’m sure.
It’s that time of the year when we all set goals, whether they concern our careers, fitness, relationships, or else.
I adore the idea of playing a game that somewhat mirrors that strive to improve, adapt, and undergo a fresh start.
Players will be able to converse with the villagers in the game’s town, forming relationships and opening new story branches.
Relocat is currently only targeting a PC launch with no release date confirmed.
As for that demo that’s available now, it features the days leading up to New Year’s Eve.
Players will be able to complete the villagers’ first requests, try the gift-wrapping mini-game, begin a quest with three branching paths, enjoy the atmosphere of the holiday season, and “see the beginning of the storyline that will later lead the hero to leave the village”.
This is described as a “small but complete slice” of the game, so Relocat sounds pretty well sized in total.
Perhaps your New Year’s Eve is one that’ll be spent at a party in the company of friends and family, but if you prefer the quiet life and find yourself tucked up at home, this delightful little demo may be the perfect way to bring in 2026.
