Developer Pugstorm and publisher Fireshine Games have released Core Keeper in Early Access on Steam. The game is a mining sandbox game with a retro pixel aesthetic reminiscent of the ever-popular Stardew Valley. But that’s where the comparisons really end. While the game does have mining, farming, and crafting much like Stardew, the goal is much more focused: restore power to the mysterious core.

One other thing distinguishing Core Keeper from games like Stardew Valley is the lack of a cast of characters to interact with. I’ll admit that in my first playthrough of Stardew Valley I largely ignored the social aspect of the game, preferring rather to keep to my farm and venture to the mines on rainy days. The lack of them isn’t necessarily a problem in Core Keeper, but if the residents of Pelican Town were one of the draws for you to Stardew Valley, it’s worth mentioning.

The developer Pugstorm said that in the leadup to the full retail release of the game, they are planning to add:

• New biomes, enemies, and bosses.

• Many more items to find and craft.

• Additional story elements, including the second stage to unraveling the mystery of the Core (and an ending!).

• Additional gameplay mechanics for cooking, farming, smithing, and base building.

• Tweaked & refined game design iterated on through community feedback.

• Additional language support.

Core Keeper is available on Steam’s Early Access. I’m excited to dive into the caves of Core Keeper! Be sure to sound off in the comments and let us know how you’re enjoying the game!