Ubisofthas been hit-or-miss for many years now, but when its games hit, they can often be surprisingly great. This is precisely what might happen with arumoredAnimal Crossing-like gamefrom the developer, which has the chance to be remarkably different from its usual bread and butter in the best way.
Cozy games may be all the rage right now, but most smaller developers seem to lean more towards theHarvest MoonandStardew Valleyend of the spectrum than theAnimal Crossingone, at least in recent years. The micromanaging activities of these sorts of titles, coupled with their accessible, low-stakes gameplay model, allows them to appeal to a broad audience—an audience that can often become incredibly dedicated to over a long period of time. It makes sense thatUbisoft, which tends to aim for longevity with its titles through DLCs, micro-expansions, and other games-as-a-service strategies, would want to cash in on this trend, for better or worse.
Ubisoft Could Be Working On a Cozy Game Called Alterra
Alterra Sounds Like Animal Crossing Mixed With Minecraft
According toa report from Insider Gaming, Ubisoft is developing a “cozy” game known simply as Alterra. It seems to be taking a few notes frombothAnimal CrossingandMinecraft, as it will reportedly feature resource-based building mechanics alongside social sim features—something that will no doubt tantalize many fans of games in this space.
It should be noted that, at the time of writing, Ubisoft has not made any official comment aboutAlterra’s development.
Players will be able to gather different resources and build structures with them, but they will also interact with humanoid creatures called Matterlings, which seem awfully similar toAnimal Crossing’s anthropomorphic fauna. Different in-game regions will host different Matterlings, which are defined by specific elements such as ice, fire, et cetera, requiring players to travel to these distinct regions for exclusive building supplies and other resources. It’s not clear just how complex the game’s social mechanics will be, but Insider Gaming’s sources explicitly describe the project as being akin toAnimal Crossing, so a sophisticated or overtly mature social simulation probably shouldn’t be expected.
Alterra Sounds Like a Big Departure for Ubisoft
It’s no great secret that Ubisoft is struggling right now. Myriad internal development issues and workplace misconduct allegations aside, the company’s public perception has been steadily degrading over time, with evenUbisoft producer Marc-Alexis Cotes admitting that a change in narrativeis required for continued success with consumers. Ubisoft certainly isn’t above criticism, but games likePrince of Persia: The Lost Crownprove that it can still surprise with high-quality titles when stepping out of its AAA comfort zone.
Perhaps the same phenomenon could occur with the rumoredAlterra. It’s ostensibly lacking the emphasis on combat and copy-paste open-world exploration that have infected so many of the company’s biggest titles, which may yield promising results. AnAnimal Crossing-Minecrafthybrid from Ubisoft isn’t exactly what anyone is asking for, but that means that Ubisoft’s developers aren’t bound by the shackles of expectation that have restrainedthe likes ofAssassin’s CreedandFar Cry.In other words,Alterra’s unique premise could pave the way for greater innovation within the company.
At the same time,Ubisoft should take care not to slip into old habitswith the game. Unfortunately, despite their wholesome presentation, cozy games can be particularly vulnerable to predatory practices like microtransactions and paid season passes, as features like cosmetics are especially in-demand in the genre. But if Ubisoft can properly thread the needle,Alterracould be a nice change of pace, and even a solid alternative toAnimal Crossing.
Animal Crossing: New Horizons
WHERE TO PLAY
Escape to a deserted island and create your own paradise as you explore, create, and customize in the Animal Crossing: New Horizons game. Your island getaway has a wealth of natural resources that can be used to craft everything from tools to creature comforts. You can hunt down insects at the crack of dawn, decorate your paradise throughout the day, or enjoy sunset on the beach while fishing in the ocean. The time of day and season match real life, so each day on your island is a chance to check in and find new surprises all year round.Show off your island utopia to family and friends—or pack your bags and visit theirs. Whether playing online** or with others beside you***, island living is even better when you can share it. Even without hopping on a flight, you’ll meet a cast of charming animal residents bursting with personality. Friendly faces like Tom Nook and Isabelle will lend their services and happily help you grow your budding community. Escape to your island getaway—however, whenever, and wherever you want.
