The cozy farming sim genre exploded with the launch of Stardew Valley, and since then, we’ve seen countless indie titles released seemingly monthly that revamp the formula and put a unique twist on the genre. The latest is The Home County, a village-building farming sim in which you’ll construct a bustling township in the British countryside. You must consider your villagers’ needs, manage production, decorate the land, and fight monsters and ghosts.
The Home County, by developer Swanworth, launched on September 22 in Steam Early Access for the modest price of just $13.99. Like any good indie project in Early Access, the team has a roadmap in place to help streamline development. You can see more about the upcoming major content update, slated for Q4 2025, below.
What is The Home County?
- A Village Simulation: Each villager brings unique talents to help your community flourish. Watch your gardener harvesting flowers, your blacksmith at work, or your artisan crafting goods. Tend to your villagers’ needs and keep spirits high. Set up production lines to maximize your village’s output.
- An Immersive Life Sim: Spend your days pursuing charming hobbies like painting, fishing, or mining. You might get dirty along the way, so be sure to take a wash in your tub! Unwind with the radio or indulge in a restful nap. Live the relaxing countryside life!
- A Unique World: Restore the Crystal Garden, and get to know a cast of 16 characters, each with their own personality, routines, and storylines. Venture into mines filled with history, treasures, and adventure. Explore a world inspired by Edwardian Britain. Will you become a Lord/Lady or lead your village as equals?
What’s Coming in The Home County’s First Major Update?
❤️ Story & Romance
- More detailed background stories – raising hearts from 2 to 4.
- Protective characters, jealousy, and rivals to enrich social dynamics.
- Romance social actions, like kissing and flirting with select characters.
📚 Hobbies
- A writing hobby & library room in the Crystal Garden.
- More variation in hobby tasks and outcomes.
⭐ World
- Proper ceremony cutscenes for becoming a Lord/Lady.
- More secrets hidden around the world.
- More decor options to fully personalise your village.
👒 Outfits
- New hats & outfits.
- Beards, dynamic beard growth & shaving.
🔨 Technical
- 8GB RAM support.
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