Chicago — A new indie game combining environmental themes with creature collection mechanics is now available for players to try. Garden and a Goat, developed by Contemplation Games, has launched its first public playtest on PC via Steam, running through March 31. The game is expected to enter Early Access in the third quarter of 2026.
The title joins a growing category of simulation and “cozy” games—popular among U.S. players—that emphasize creativity, exploration, and low-pressure gameplay, similar to titles like Stardew Valley and Animal Crossing.
A Multiverse Mission to Restore Ecosystems
Players Take on the Role of a Robot Caretaker
In Garden and a Goat, players control a small robot tasked with restoring damaged ecosystems across multiple biomes in a multiverse setting. The gameplay centers on environmental recovery, requiring players to study each area, plant native vegetation, and gradually reintroduce wildlife.
By cultivating the land and encouraging biodiversity, players help rebuild habitats and bring ecosystems back to life.
Collecting and Caring for Animals
A core feature of the game is its creature collection system. Players can encounter and interact with a variety of animals, including bees, squirrels, bears, and leopards.
These animals can be:
- Petted and cared for
- Fed with crafted treats
- Attracted using decorative items placed throughout the environment
Once certain conditions are met, animals become permanent residents of the ecosystem. As the environment improves, additional “variant” animals from across the multiverse begin to appear, expanding the collection.
Gameplay Systems Focused on Growth and Exploration
Technology Meets Nature
Players use a combination of futuristic tools and environmental management systems to maintain each biome. High-tech consoles and drones assist in monitoring and nurturing the ecosystem.
Scanning the environment allows players to collect “data gems,” which serve as a resource for unlocking new plants, animals, decorations, and gameplay features.
Customization and Progression
The game also includes cosmetic customization options for the robot character and its equipment. These unlocks allow players to personalize their experience while progressing through different stages of ecosystem restoration.
Throughout the game, a mysterious goat character oversees the player’s efforts, adding a light narrative element to the experience.
Development Team With Film and Game Industry Experience
Contemplation Games brings together professionals from both the entertainment and gaming industries. The team includes artists and animators who have contributed to television series such as Stranger Things, Evil, and What We Do in the Shadows.
Game development experience on the team includes work on titles like Dungeons & Dragons Online, Marvel Puzzle Quest, and projects tied to major franchises like Fortnite.
According to Jeff Vilimek, founder and studio lead at Contemplation Games, the project draws inspiration from classic creature-collection games.
“Garden and a Goat is inspired by classic games like Viva Piñata, and we’re thrilled to bring its mix of creature collecting and ecosystem management to Steam with this first public playtest,” Vilimek said. “We look forward to players exploring the animal progression system and discovering the hidden variants available.”
Playtest Details and Release Timeline
The public playtest is available now on Steam for PC users and will run through Tuesday, March 31. The current version supports English, with additional updates expected ahead of the Early Access launch planned for Q3 2026.
Players interested in participating can download the test build directly from Steam and provide feedback to help shape development.
Conclusion
With its blend of ecosystem restoration, animal collection, and light simulation mechanics, Garden and a Goat aims to carve out a niche within the growing “cozy game” genre. The ongoing playtest offers an early look at how the game balances environmental storytelling with interactive gameplay ahead of its Early Access debut later this year.
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