One of the biggest changes in video game development over the last couple of decades has been the rise of smaller, independent developers who manage to compete with the big guns in the industry.
Arguably the most notable example of that will always be Minecraft, the block-breaking juggernaut that started life under the guidance of just one person, expanding to a very small team after initial success.
Outside of that absolute behemoth, one of the other most notable examples is Stardew Valley, which tapped into a similar cosy vibe and accrued millions of players since its release in 2016.
As such, it’s little surprise that other new releases attempt to tap that same well, and one has just hit the Steam store that seemingly does just that, and you can try it for free right now.
Retro Relics is a Cosy Treasure Hunting Game
Over on Steam, you should be able to track down the store page for Retro Relics, a pixel art cosy game where you explore the world and hunt for treasure, without much in the way of direct threat. It’s very much got an Uncharted feel to it.
In the developer’s own words, “In Retro Relics, you follow in the footsteps of your late Grandpa, a passionate metal detectorist. Explore nature and search for various relics with your metal detector. Roam freely with no time limits – detect, dig, help others find their lost belongings, and complete your coin and relics collection!”
The game’s treasures are divided into relics from different eras, covering everything from the Bronze Age, all the way up to the modern day. After getting an indication on your metal detector, you’ll need to uncover the items, which could be anything from coins, buttons, buckles and jewellery, to military and religious relics.
While exploring the game’s world, you’ll progress through a ton of different biomes, as well as major ruins and other points of interest, with animals to discover as part of the game’s wider offering.
You’ll also be given missions along the way by those who need you to track down specific things for them, with these search quests offering interesting new rewards for your inventory.
As mentioned earlier, the game is out now and early impressions from those who have played it are generally quite positive. If you are a bit tentative about spending your hard earned cash on it, then there is also a free demo available via the Steam storefront, to alleviate the risk.
