Cosy wizard faculty existence-sim Witchbrook gets free up window 8 years after its note

Witchbrook, the charming life-simulation setting in a wizard academy by Chucklefish, has finally received a release window eight years after its original announcement.

Initially referred to as Project Spellbound, it was first hinted at back in 2016, Witchbrook was officially unveiled in 2017. It quickly drew parallels to Stardew Valley, a game earlier published by Chucklefish, and it transitioned to an isometric perspective in 2020.

Apart from a look at new screenshots from 2022, not much has been revealed about the game. Until today! During the Nintendo Direct, we finally obtained a release window set for winter 2025 on PC, Nintendo Switch, and Xbox, including a day one Game Pass launch.

In Witchbrook, players can enroll in the titular magical academy, ready to discover the coastal town of Mossport, the nearby forests, and the school grounds themselves. Notably, four players can collaborate in online cooperative multiplayer.

Players will have the opportunity to acquire new magical skills to better themselves, support local businesses and the community, develop relationships and romantic connections with various characters, refurbish a charming woodland cottage and its garden, and spend their time between classes by foraging, crafting, and partaking in seasonal festivities.

“Witchbrook is the most thrilling project I’ve ever worked on; it’s been a long time coming, but I’m very excited to get the game into the hands of players soon,” said Chucklefish CTO Rodrigo Braz Monteiro.

“I believe the level of simulation and fidelity we are aiming for in this game is beyond what is typically expected from games not classified as AAA, and seeing it come to life in a pixel art indie game has been immensely rewarding for us. For now, we are only showcasing a small preview of a vast game, and I can’t wait for the community to discover what’s in store over the next few months.”

“Witchbrook is our love letter to intentional living, the subtle magic of serene moments, and the connections we share with one another and the surrounding world,” added art director Steph Caskenette. “Whether players are adventuring solo or sharing the experience, we hope Witchbrook becomes a sanctuary for relaxation.