Way to the Woods has playable deer looting vending machines

Early this morning Microsoft kicked off E3 with their bombastic conference. You can catch some highlights on our site (including Keanu Reeves in Cyberpunk 2077!), but a considerably interesting part of the conference was the studios focus on indies. One that particularly caught eyes was an indie by the name of Way to the Woods

Way to the Woods is a third person adventure game that follows two deer in a “strange, abandoned world without humans and must find their way home. Find food, shelter, safety and answers on your way to the woods.” What also is exciting from Way to the Woods is that it is coming from a one man indie developer from right here in Melbourne that’s only 19 years old.

The project has been in work for a number of years and the developer’s inspirations (as cited by their FAQ on their blog) are Spirited Away, Princess Mononoke and The Last of Us. If this doesn’t give you enough insight as to what the art style while look like and entice you, let the trailer below do the honors.

That trailer is both parts equally haunting and serene and its art style is something to be admired for how stunning it is. Going through this world also looks to be an emotional journey for the two deer: just where is the rest of society? What’s the deal with the creepy supernatural looking elements? These are some questions that will have to be left unanswered for some time, as the game is set to release sometime in 2020.

Good news for Xbox Game Pass owners too, this title will be available on the service the day of its launch. News like this is exciting, it’s always a joy to see local game development talent make it big and be hyped up and cared for in a big way. Score one for Melbourne!