NIS America has announced Village in the Shade, a new farming simulation title from Nippon Ichi Software, set to launch in Fall 2026. The game is in development for Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, PlayStation 5, and PC via Steam.
Set in the secluded mountain village of Kagatsu, the game blends traditional farming mechanics with an unsettling atmosphere. Players will cultivate crops, customize their homes, and build relationships with a cast of local residents, all while uncovering the mysteries surrounding the village. The experience is presented with a hand-painted visual style that emphasizes both its tranquil and eerie elements.
Village in the Shade offers familiar life simulation activities such as decorating a homestead, gathering resources, and crafting items. Players can purchase furniture in town to personalize their living space, while also taking part in seasonal events and festivals, including cherry blossom viewing and summer celebrations. These activities are designed to deepen connections with the villagers and reinforce the game’s slower-paced lifestyle.
However, the setting carries an undercurrent of tension. Players are given a set of rules to follow, including avoiding strangers, staying within the village, and not venturing out at night. Those who choose to dig deeper into Kagatsu’s secrets may uncover a darker side to what initially appears to be a peaceful community.
A Limited Edition version of the game is now available for preorder at $89.99. This edition includes a copy of the game, a collector’s box, an art book, the original soundtrack, an acrylic display piece, and a set of metal pins.
Village in the Shade supports a single-player experience and will feature multiple text language options on console, including English, French, and Spanish. Audio will be available in Japanese, Korean, Traditional Chinese, English, French, and Spanish. The game is currently rated TEEN by the ESRB.
