A game titled Sandcastle is in development, offering players the chance to construct sandcastles on a physics-accurate beach. The game aims to capture the tactile experience of building with sand, including its reactions to moisture and the encroaching tide.
Players begin with a small patch of sand and basic tools to shape their creations. As they progress, they can unlock new, holiday-themed locations to build in. The game also incorporates elements of hidden object gameplay, with starfish and shells to find. Starfish, in particular, unlock additional customization options for the sandcastles, allowing for more detailed decorations.
The core appeal of Sandcastle lies in its detailed physics simulation. Much like real sand, the material in the game behaves differently depending on its moisture content. Dry sand is described as powdery and crumbly, while damp sand is denser and more stable. Building near the shoreline means structures will be subject to erosion from waves. The developers state on the game's Steam page, "Carve too thin and a tower may slump; reinforce with damp sand and it will stand proud against the tide," highlighting the thoughtful approach to simulating natural processes.
While a release date for Sandcastle has not yet been announced, a demo is scheduled to launch on August 6th. The game is currently available to wishlist on Steam.