About This Demo

This is an early proof-of-concept demo for Hawthorn, a prototype made at the start of our development journey. We built it to share our vision with publishers and the world, and as a foundation for the full game. It focuses on the village-building aspect of Hawthorn, offering a glimpse of the world, the intended atmosphere, and the player-driven experience at the core of the game. Much more gameplay and content have already been added since this version, and the visuals in this demo do not represent the final game.

Now we're making this demo available to the public to gather feedback that will help shape what comes next. Our ability to continue developing Hawthorn depends on the support and involvement of our community, and sharing this early version is part of that process. Your feedback will help us grow Hawthorn while staying independent and true to the original vision. So, jump into Hawthorn's Proof-of-Concept Demo and join us as we continue bringing this world to life.

Your Story

Once upon a time, woodland creatures built a trading post in forgotten Windermere Valley, but now it is the haunt of varmints, fairy lights, and mysterious rumors about why this village was abandoned.

To you, however, this is a hope for a new life. Recruit villagers and grow a community. Defend against the elements and forest tricksters. Thrive and celebrate the seasons’ traditions. Rebuilding won’t be easy, but you and your newfound friends are up to the challenge.

Build a Community

Play solo or co-op with your friends alongside village NPCs. The most curious folk come through Windermere Valley. Most are good creatures looking for a fresh start, each with their own story to share—if you befriend them.

Explore an Ever-changing World

Local superstition won’t keep you from exploring the surrounding wilderness for resources and treasure! But things change in Windermere Valley. The four seasons—with their rains and snow—bring unique challenges. And the way the woodland shifts and the strange creatures that come and go might make you believe the old legends.

Build Your Village

Harvest, fish, and farm. Tasks you’d rather not do? Your NPC villagers can take them on instead! Rebuild and decorate the homes among the roots of great trees. Learn to craft different styles. Cater to your villagers’ preferences and they will follow you to the end.

Features:

• Small-scale co-op multiplayer (online/lan) or singleplayer

• Play as a small, woodland creature in an enchanting yet believable world.

• Forage, farm, fish, craft, and build a fairytale village.

• Befriend (or offend!) memorable NPCs, each with their own personality and story.

• Overcome the challenges of weather and celebrate each of the four seasons.

• Explore a large valley where resources and points of interest change over time.

• Experience random events that make each player’s sandbox story unique.

• Choose a peaceable solution to each conflict or choose the path of combat!

• Create your unique character from a variety of species and backgrounds.

About Us

NEARstudios is a group of game developers from AAA studios such as Bethesda, BioWare, and Naughty Dog who are taking the indie path, developing their first passion project with the help of their players and community.

Sign up for updates and be invited to future playtests on the official Hawthorn website (linked in the right-side column of this page, above social media).