Ahoy there, builders and strategy enthusiasts! Coatsink is back with a sequel to its acclaimed minimalist city builder, with the promise of sending gamers to ISLANDERS: New Shores this coming summer.
ISLANDERS: New Shores is set to launch on PC, PlayStation, Xbox, and Switch in Summer 2025, promising a relaxing and strategic experience for fans of the original and newcomers alike.
And if you’re wondering whether it’s worth diving into this new installment, our 4/5 review of ISLANDERS: Console Edition back in 2021 might sway you: “ISLANDERS: Console Edition is something that is able to deliver a relaxing city experience without the stress of deep management, finances, and dealing with unhappy residents. It’s a game that is great to pick up for a quick bash, finding the minutes turning into hours.“
Building on Success, Expanding the Horizons
ISLANDERS: New Shores stays true to the spirit of its predecessor, offering a streamlined and accessible city-building experience that’s perfect for short bursts of gameplay or longer, more strategic sessions. You’ll be presented with a series of beautiful islands to develop, starting each level with a limited inventory of buildings.
Strategic placement is key, as you aim to maximise your points and unlock new structures to expand your island paradise. The game strikes a perfect balance between simplicity and depth, allowing players to enjoy the satisfaction of creating thriving settlements without the overwhelming complexity of traditional city builders.
New Features Await on the Horizon
But New Shores isn’t just a rehash of the original; it introduces a variety of exciting new features to enhance the gameplay experience:
- Boons: These one-time power-ups can be unlocked during each stage by accumulating points. Boons offer strategic advantages like duplicating buildings or replacing existing structures, adding a layer of tactical decision-making to the gameplay.
- Sandbox Mode: For those who prefer a more freeform experience, Sandbox Mode allows you to build without restrictions, unleashing your creativity and experimenting with different layouts and designs.
- New Building Types: Expand your architectural repertoire with a variety of new and unique buildings, each with its own function and aesthetic appeal.
- Advanced Scoring: The scoring system has been refined, rewarding clever tactics and strategic placement. Mastering the nuances of scoring will be key to achieving high scores and unlocking new challenges.
- Island Properties: Each island in New Shores has unique properties that influence your building strategies. Adapt your approach to the environment and make the most of the resources and challenges each island presents.
- Photo Mode: Capture the beauty of your island creations with a dedicated Photo Mode, complete with filters and a turntable camera. Share your stunning screenshots with friends and the community.
- Twitch Integration: Streamers can engage their viewers with Twitch integration, allowing them to vote on in-game decisions and influence the direction of the gameplay.
More Island Adventures Await
ISLANDERS: New Shores promises another delightful and relaxing city-building experience, building upon the success of its predecessor with new features, challenges, and creative opportunities.
Whether you’re a seasoned city builder or new to the ISLANDERS series, New Shores should well offer up an accessible experience that’s perfect for those seeking a more laid-back and creative gaming experience.
Set Sail for New Shores
ISLANDERS: New Shores launches in Summer 2025 on PC, PlayStation, Xbox, and Switch. Get ready to explore, build, and strategise your way to a thriving island paradise.
We’ll keep you looped, but for now, hit the trailer below.
