Coral Island, the latest addition to the cozy games genre, is a compulsive treat full of beautiful details. A Kickstarter success, the game funded over US$1.6 million in less than 36 hours! Coral Island transports players to a tropical paradise. The sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush vegetation (you can plant and harvest tropical fruits durians!) create a serene and relaxing atmosphere. It feels less like work and more like an escape to paradise.
Farming games have come a long way from their humble beginnings as simple ranch and resource collection games. Every new farming game in the recent years have evolved into true slice-of-life experiences that offer players a wide range of activities and opportunities for self-expression. Developed in Indonesia, the developers definitely embodied their DNA into this game.
Coral Island excels at inclusivity. The character creator allows for diverse representation by offering various skin tones, hairstyles, facial features, and clothing options. Inclusivity doesn't just stop at character creation, there are 16 characters that you can date, regardless of your gender.
The map in Coral Island is vast and filled with intricate details. From dense forests to sprawling fields, each area has its own unique charm. Exploring the island feels like embarking on an adventure as players uncover hidden treasures and encounter various NPCs along the way.
Festivals in Coral Island are well-designed and offer a range of activities for players to participate in. These events add excitement and variety to the gameplay experience. Whether it's participating in contests or enjoying special seasonal activities, festivals provide a break from daily routines.
In addition to farming crops, players can also have pets and raise animals on their island. Taking care of these furry companions adds another layer of depth to the gameplay experience. Building relationships with NPCs is also an important aspect of Coral Island. Engaging storylines and cinematics bring the characters to life and make players feel invested in their stories.
When it comes to unique features and gameplay mechanics, Coral Island has some genuinely innovative ideas. The oceans surrounding the island play a significant role in gameplay, offering opportunities for fishing and diving. The game also offers a robust mission system that provides players with goals to work towards while still allowing for freedom and exploration.
Coral Island manages to bring a fresh and exciting experience to the farming simulation genre. The game's world is beautifully crafted, with vibrant visuals and a lively atmosphere that immerses players in its tropical paradise. The sheer size of the island provides ample opportunities for exploration and discovery.
It's not a perfect game though. Some flaws, such as technical issues and lackluster visuals compared to other games in the genre, can be a turn-off for some. There's also a lack of tutorial for some of the game features like fishing. While Coral Island remains a highly enjoyable game, it can definitely benefit from couple of patches.
So if you're looking for a farming sim that goes beyond the traditional formula and offers a slice-of-life experience in a stunning tropical setting, Coral Island is definitely worth considering.
Happy farming!