Summary
Weyrdletshas been treated to a release date, July 23. That date will see the colorful virtual pet simulator launch as a free-to-play title onSteam.
Originally announced in March 2023,Weyrdletsis the latest title from Malaysian studio Weyrdworks. While primarily envisioned asa pet simulator, it’s set on a tropical island and features robust decoration mechanics, thus also having some notable similarities toAnimal Crossing: New Horizons.
Weyrdlets Gets Release Date Following Demo Launch
Weyrdworks has now announced thatWeyrdletsis set to debut on July 23. As previously promised, the game will be free to play. Steam users can alreadywishlistWeyrdletsand download its recently released demo via Valve’s digital storefront. This trial version of the game is also part of theSteam Next Fest 2024 demo lineup.
How Weyrdlets Differs From Other Virtual Pet Simulators
At its core,Weyrdletsis a virtual pet simulator that revolves around taking care of an adorable creature. But it’s also agame that runs in real time, and that can be played even when it’s not running in full-screen mode. Specifically, the player’s adopted pet can run around their desktop, offering chances for a variety of quirky interactions. While this may sound like a distraction, the game’s desktop functionality has actually been envisioned as anything but.
Specifically,Weyrdletsoffers a number of native productivity tools implemented as Windows widgets. Those include a pomodoro timer, which allows players to useWeyrdletsas a time management app based on the eponymous Pomodoro technique, which encourages taking regular brief breaks in between tasks. A to-do list is also part of the package, as is a daily self-reflection logger and several other productivity-oriented widgets. The game’s desktop functionality isn’t solely focused on getting work done, with Weyrdworks stating thatWeyrdletspets can also participate in activities like watching videos or scrolling social media.
When not running in the background,Weyrdletsworks as a traditional virtual pet sim in the vein ofNintendogsandPetz. It hence allows the player to hang out with their pet by taking it for walks, feeding it, giving it pats, or bathing it, among other activities. The game also incorporates an elaborate pet customization system, which includes everything from clothes and hats to a wide variety of accessories. Aside from the pet itself, players can also customize their idyllic tropical island surroundings. Engaging with the game yields currency that can be used toward unlocking new decorations and pet dress-up options. Given how its desktop functionality is an inherent part of its design,Weyrdletsdoesn’t appear likely to ever make its way to consoles or mobile devices.
