A vast array of games puts you in the shoes of ordinary, two-legged characters. However, only a select few offer the unique experience of playing as a creature from the animal kingdom. Games like Stray and Little Kitty, Big City have charmed players with their delightful animal protagonists, yet an upcoming indie gem is pushing the envelope by letting you experience life through the paws of a cheerful squirrel. Squirreled Away is a vibrant and imaginative crafting platformer that ditches the typical pressures of survival games. Instead, it invites you to enjoy simple pleasures like washing your tiny paws, climbing trees, and engaging in friendly chats with fellow critters.
While elements of the survival genre are present in Squirreled Away—you gather materials and construct a cozy home—there are no looming threats, save for perhaps a temperamental pitbull. The real challenge lies in navigating the treetops, collecting the essential resources for your perfect little treetop sanctuary. Far Seas, the creative minds behind the game, describe it as a “craft-and-thrive” adventure, offering an invigorating twist on a genre that’s become all too familiar.
Our bushy-tailed hero isn’t alone in their venture. Along the way, they’ll meet a host of lovable animal companions, each with their tales and quests. I found myself negotiating with fellow squirrels, buddying up with a turtle, and having a delightful chat with a seagull. Squirreled Away slots neatly into the cozy game category, designed to envelop you in warmth and wonder.
For those who enjoy collaboration, the game supports co-op mode, allowing up to four players to join forces and create their own forest kingdom.
In adopting the role of a squirrel, some creative liberties were taken to enhance the exploratory process. Now, while I’m not entirely convinced that squirrels possess the knack for industry, this nimble character cleverly crafts miniature tools. The game advances with increasingly intricate creations, like a pair of wings for gliding from one treetop to another with flair.
Squirreled Away has released a demo on Steam, offering players an enticing sneak peek. Although there’s no official launch date yet, I’ll be eagerly watching. After countless hours dedicated to chopping trees and breaking rocks in other games, where I invariably play as a two-legged character with opposable thumbs, the chance to embody a sprightly squirrel is a welcome change. Scaling trees and nibbling on acorns has been a delightful experience.
