If only times were simpler. I’ll take a game version, though. Anyway, enjoy the official details below.
LOS ANGELES – June 8, 2023 – iam8bit Presents and Transylvania-based indie studio stoneskip invite players to settle in, relax, and enjoy life’s quiet moments with Simpler Times. The chill vibes simulator was revealed during today’s Day of the Devs broadcast at Summer Game Fest, showing how players can use music to explore pivotal memories.
Simpler Times is an experiential, interactive meditation that rewards patience and attention with poignant moments that can be replayed like a favorite song.
In Simpler Times, you step into the shoes of Taina as she prepares to move out of her childhood home and begin the next chapter of her life. Relive her memories and learn how she grew into the creative, expressive person she has become. This is a contemplative, cozy experience. There is no score, no timer, no combat, no failing, and no anxiety. Just vibes.
Key Features
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4 Seasons, 4 Record: Simpler Times takes place in Taina’s childhood bedroom. Here you can listen to music, paint, watch nature, take photos, browse books, read notes & solve puzzles. Each object has a story to tell. The game takes place over ten years with 4 different moments to explore, each one portrayed in a different season.
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Play at Your Own Pace: Explore each chapter of Taina’s past without timers or fail states adding unnecessary pressure. The subtle narration unfolds through careful observation and introspection, rewarding those who embrace Simpler Times’ reflective nature.
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Lo-fi Beats to Unwind to: Music is the soulful centerpiece of Simpler Times, as Taina relives her childhood memories by spinning records on a turntable. The exceptional lo-fi soundtrack by George Pandrea, a true maestro of the chillout format, is accompanied by the lyrical poetry of Taina’s IRL voice actor, Maeve Kroeger. You’ll want to listen to these vibey tunes over and over (and over) again, trust us.
“We want players to slow down and not think about the next task at hand,” says game director Dragos Matkovski. “Simpler Times sheds light on the beauty of the ordinary and serves as a place from the past where you can be present.”
Simpler Times is coming to PC via Steam in 2024, and is available to wishlist now.
