Excited for the early access launch next week of this charming Stardew Valley-inspired game with a delightful anime style!

Starsand Island, a delightful new “carefree” twist on the beloved Stardew Valley, is gearing up for its Early Access launch on Steam and Xbox Preview next week. But that’s just the beginning, as a full release is also on the horizon for fans on additional platforms.

If you’ve caught a glimpse of Starsand Island—whether it’s the eye-catching anime-inspired art style or the ability to zoom around on a hoverboard—you’re probably as excited as I am (or maybe even more so) for this cozy sim. It’s not every day we see such a promising entry in the Stardew Valley-inspired genre, and this one certainly stands out.

The wait is almost over for those on PC and Xbox, as Seed Sparkle Lab has confirmed that players can dive into Starsand Island starting February 11 through Steam Early Access and Xbox Preview. After this initial phase, the game will fully launch on all consoles, including PlayStation 5 and Nintendo Switch 2, later this summer.

So, what can we expect from this charming title? Imagine a blend of My Time at Portia and Stardew Valley. You’ll find yourself on a remote island, tasked with revitalizing your childhood home. There are various skills to hone, such as farming and fishing, and plenty of opportunities to befriend the island’s quirky inhabitants. Exploration is key, with ruins to discover and a range of vehicles to ride, from roller blades to hoverboards and motorbikes.

Personally, I’m eager to see how the house-building and decorating mechanics play out, as that’s typically my favorite aspect of these games. With a strong emphasis on customization and DIY, I have a feeling Starsand Island will capture my heart—only time will tell. With just nine days left until we can explore its wonders, I’ve got some serious island planning to do.