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You know, there are countless games out there where you play as your typical two-legged character, but it’s far more unusual to step into the role of a cute creature. Games like “Stray” and “Little Kitty, Big City” have certainly paved the way with their charming animal leads, but a new indie game is taking a delightful turn by letting you play as a squirrel. “Squirreled Away” is an enchanting, vibrant crafting platformer that trades the stress of survival games for the pure delight of scampering around, washing your tiny paws, scaling trees, and making friends with the neighborhood critters.
Despite borrowing elements from survival games—like collecting materials and building a home—”Squirreled Away” steers clear of the usual peril, with the exception of perhaps a grumpy pitbull. The real challenge lies in using your platforming skills to navigate the treetops, gather resources, and create the perfect arboreal abode. Developer Far Seas has coined it a “craft-and-thrive” adventure, offering a refreshing twist in an otherwise crowded genre.
Our furry protagonist isn’t tackling this endeavor solo; a menagerie of adorable animal buddies are there to keep things lively, each coming with their own unique stories and missions. I found myself engaging in delightful conversations with fellow squirrels, making friends with a turtle, and even having a cordial exchange with a seagull. “Squirreled Away” nestles comfortably into the cozy game category, with every facet designed to soothe and charm.
And if you’re the social type, there’s a co-op mode that lets up to four squirrel friends join forces to create a leafy haven together.
As lovable as our squirrel hero is, the game does take a bit of creative liberty for the sake of exploration. Squirrels aren’t typically known for their craftsmanship, but in this game, our little friend manages to create intricate tools. These tools evolve as you progress, eventually allowing you to glide stylishly between treetops with a nifty set of wings.
Currently, there’s a demo on Steam where you can get a taste of “Squirreled Away.” Although there’s no official release date just yet, it’s definitely a title I’ll be watching. It’s a refreshing break from the usual routine of chopping down trees and breaking rocks in games that make you play as a thumb-wielding human. Embracing life as a nimble squirrel, climbing trees, and munching on acorns offered a delightful change of pace.
