Hokko Life Game Has Serious Animal Crossing Vibes

gamerant.com:

After just over one year in Early Access, Hokko Life will be fully releasing on all major consoles as well as Steam next month. Hokko Life represents a great opportunity for gamers that don't own a Nintendo Switch to experience the soothing and low-intensity Animal Crossing-style gameplay that defines the life sim genre.

The life sim genre has seen a surge in popularity over the last few years partially thanks to the success of Animal Crossing: New Horizons, which captivated millions of weary gamers during the COVID-19 pandemic's initial lockdown. The upbeat and wholesome nature of the genre provides gamers with a much-needed escape from the stresses and uncertainties of modern life as they mosey about a relaxed virtual world carrying out small chores and customizing their personal spaces. Since Harvest Moon in the 1990s, life sims such as Stardew Valley, My Time at Portia, and the upcoming Hokko Life all appeal to gamers longing for a simple life.

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Published by indie label Team17, Hokko Life first entered Early Access back in June 2021 in a relatively barebones state with early reviewers concerned by the lack of content. Over time, the game has received many substantial updates that have uplifted Hokko Life into being a worthy contender to the likes of genre staples such as Animal Crossing and Stardew Valley. One such update added a surprisingly deep Mayor Merits feature that rewards player milestones with perks and abilities such as sprinting or the option to have villagers assist in resource collection. Other updates like the Bug Catcher Update added a monthly bug survey that gives insect-catching players something to work toward each in-game