Vivarium, a life-simulation game previously revealed in 2023, reappeared during the Xbox Games Showcase with fresh gameplay footage. Developed by Studio Meadowflower and Serenity Forge, the title offers a departure from high-violence games, presenting a cozy aesthetic centered around a miniature town within a terrarium. Players step into the shoes of Jenny, an 11-year-old girl living through an endless summer. The game's world draws inspiration from classic anime, particularly the early works of Studio Ghibli.
Gameplay in Vivarium involves interacting with a diverse cast of townspeople, who are described as eclectic and sometimes animal-like. Players can engage in activities such as cooking recipes, tending to a garden, collecting stickers, and decorating their in-game home. Beyond these daily routines, players are encouraged to investigate a hidden secret within their tiny world. The visual style is noted as beautiful and approachable.
The game is slated for release in 2027 and will be available on Xbox Series X/S and PC.