Cozy witch sandbox game Reka is already a wonderful encapsulation of life out in the wilderness of fantasy Europe, bringing together Valheim style exploration and building to let you craft your own walking hut as an apprentice to the legendary Baba Jaga. The result feels like a more peaceful, contemplative counterpart to exploring the continent of The Witcher 3, but now developer Emberstorm Entertainment is introducing some more fundamental tenets of the forest enchantress lifestyle.
The early access for best sandbox games better.
Out today, the new Roots and Remedies update "gives budding witches all the tools they need to grow a blossoming garden." You'll be able to plant numerous different seeds and tend to them with your watering can to transform them into a wide variety of crops. Pumpkins, cabbages, garlic, grain, sage, wolfsbane, poppies, and more – there are plenty of options here. You'll then be able to take your harvest to a new Herbalist Workshop and craft them into potions.
Of particular note, the Tonic of Communication adds a delightful feature to Reka: talking to animals. "We saw how much you loved being able to pick up and hold your furry and feathery companions, so we've gone one little step further… you'll be able to speak to them too." This new potion lets you chat "for a short period of time" with every animal currently in the game, from cats and chickens to goats, donkeys, deer, crows, and more.
The update also introduces more points of interest around the woodland, including some additional villagers looking for help. Among them is a mysterious artist, who might be persuaded to part with their paintings for the right price. Emberstorm has also polished up Reka's interface and menus, with a new way to switch more quickly between items.
The Reka Roots and Remedies update launches today, Monday May 12. You can buy the game on Steam in early access for $19.99 / £15.99. Find it here if you're eager for a magical getaway. "Thanks again for being such a wonderful community," Emberstorm remarks. "Working on Reka has been our dream and we're so lucky to have you us on this journey."
For more ways to carve out an existence in the wilderness, here are the best indie games you can play right now, as well, lest you miss any hidden gems.
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