ShantyTown, the compact urban diorama-building game from solo developer Erik Rempen of Silk Softworks and publisher Kinephantom Games, is expanding with a new update that adds more than 70 placeable interior items, gameplay improvements and a refreshed free demo. The update arrives alongside a Custom Sale beginning September 27, offering the game at 50% off on Steam.
The latest release continues the game’s post-launch development following its Steam debut in April, with new features aimed at giving players greater freedom to create densely packed, highly detailed neighborhoods.
ShantyTown Continues to Grow After Steam Launch
Since its April release, ShantyTown has received a series of smaller updates and patches shaped in part by community feedback. Developer Erik Rempen has also organized themed building competitions that encourage players to experiment with the game’s creative systems.
Previous challenges have focused on themes including rooftops, bathhouses and casinos, while another asked participants to construct an entire scene using only a single building.
The post-launch updates have also refined Creative Mode and introduced additional decorative options.
ShantyTown currently carries a “Very Positive” user rating on Steam, with roughly 97% of reviews listed as positive.
Update Adds More Than 70 Interior Items
Version 1.06.01 significantly expands the collection of objects available to players.
More than 70 interior items spread across 11 new categories can now be placed freely. Previously, these objects appeared only inside buildings. They unlock alongside their corresponding shops and can be found in the “Shop Items” section of Creative Mode.
The update also changes object collision behavior, allowing players to stack more items on top of one another. The adjustment is designed to support denser and more intricate builds.
Several quality-of-life improvements are included as well. Missed unlocks now provide information about where they can be found, windowed display modes have been removed on handheld devices, and multiple visual issues have been addressed.
Free Demo Receives Post-Launch Improvements
The ShantyTown demo has also been refreshed to incorporate improvements introduced since the full game’s release.
Players trying the free version can now explore the Welcome Pier, Shrine and Lighthouse maps. ShantyTown is also Steam Deck Verified.
A Different Approach to City Building
Rather than emphasizing resource management and optimization, ShantyTown centers its building system around decorations, lighting and utilities.
These elements determine how structures are completed and upgraded, shifting the focus toward visual balance, atmosphere and personal creativity instead of conventional city-management efficiency.
Players can freely position and stack objects while building across 20 distinct locations, each featuring its own environmental details and objects.
The game also includes a changing day-night cycle accompanied by an adaptive soundtrack from vaporwave artist Macroblank.
Once a location is completed, players can photograph their creations and add the images to an in-game dossier.
Creative Mode allows players to revisit locations using unlocked objects, while the Blankspace feature provides a larger area for custom creations with fewer restrictions.
ShantyTown Custom Sale Begins September 27
Alongside the update, ShantyTown is participating in a Custom Sale beginning September 27, with the game discounted by 50% on Steam.
The title is currently available for Windows and macOS, while its soundtrack is offered separately.
With additional building objects, improved stacking mechanics and an updated demo, version 1.06.01 expands the creative options available to both existing players and newcomers interested in ShantyTown’s relaxed approach to urban diorama building.
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