This is an experimental digital toy that invites players to create charming island towns. Released in 2020, it offers a relaxing and intuitive building experience across PC (Microsoft Windows), iOS, Xbox Series X|S, Android, Mac, Xbox One, and Nintendo Switch. It falls into the simulator and indie genres, developed by Oskar Stålberg and published by Raw Fury.

The core appeal lies in its simplicity and emergent beauty. Players select colors from a palette and place blocks onto an irregular grid. An underlying algorithm then intelligently transforms these blocks into various architectural elements, such as houses, arches, stairways, bridges, and gardens, based on their placement and configuration. There is no defined goal or traditional gameplay loop; the focus is purely on the act of creation and the visual satisfaction it provides.

What is the core gameplay loop?

The primary interaction involves selecting a color and then clicking on the water to place a building block. Subsequent clicks adjacent to existing blocks will cause the algorithm to generate new structures or connect existing ones. For instance, placing blocks in a row might form a street, while stacking them can create taller buildings. The system dynamically generates details like windows, doors, and balconies, adapting to the surrounding structures and the player's input. This process is iterative, allowing for the organic growth of an island settlement.

What makes this game unique?

Its uniqueness stems from its nature as a "toy" rather than a traditional game. It eschews objectives, challenges, and progression systems in favor of pure creative expression. The procedural generation of architectural details ensures that each town feels distinct and visually appealing, even with simple player input. The game fosters a sense of discovery as players experiment with different block placements to see how the algorithm responds, leading to the spontaneous creation of quaint hamlets, intricate canal networks, or even cities built on stilts.

What is the setting and atmosphere?

The game presents a serene, abstract aquatic environment where players build on the water. The atmosphere is one of peaceful creativity and aesthetic exploration. The towns that emerge are characterized by their organic shapes, winding streets, and a generally picturesque, almost storybook-like quality. The focus is on visual harmony and the simple pleasure of constructing something beautiful, block by block.

What are the main features?

Intuitive Building System: Simple point-and-click mechanics make it accessible to all.
Procedural Generation: An underlying algorithm intelligently creates architectural details, ensuring variety and visual interest.
Color Palette: Players can choose from a range of colors to customize their towns.
Open-Ended Creativity: No goals or restrictions, allowing for complete freedom of expression.
Cross-Platform Availability: Playable on a wide array of devices, including PC, mobile, and consoles.