Chucklefish has confirmed that its upcoming magic-themed life simulation title, Witchbrook, will be released on PC, Nintendo Switch, and Xbox during Winter 2025 (Summer 2025 for those of us in the Southern Hemisphere). The announcement was shared during yesterday’s Nintendo Direct presentation, where the first gameplay footage was also unveiled. Development of the game is being led in-house by Chucklefish, with additional support from Robotality.
Witchbrook will invite players to enrol at the titular Witchbrook College, set in the colourful seaside city of Mossport. The initial gameplay reveal (available below) highlighted locations such as the city, nearby forests, and the grounds of the college itself, suggesting a detailed world and extensive simulation elements for players to explore. The game will include online co-op for up to four players, allowing friends to experience the magical sandbox world together and shape their own narratives as student witches.
Players will be able to personalise their experience through cottage customisation, clothing options, and a flexible daily routine. Activities range from attending classes and learning spells to participating in seasonal events, foraging, and developing relationships with the local community, including a variety of datable characters.
Rodrigo Braz Monteiro, Game Director at Chucklefish, expressed enthusiasm about the game’s upcoming release, stating:
Witchbrook is the most exciting project I’ve ever worked on, and it’s been a long time coming, but I’m very eager to get the game in the hands of the players soon. I don’t think that the level of simulation and fidelity we’ve aimed for in this game is expected of any games short of AAA, and to see it realised in a pixel art indie game has been very satisfying to us. For now, we’re only sharing a small glimpse into a vast game, and I can’t wait for the community to see what’s coming over the next few months.
Producer Rosie Ball also spoke to the studio’s development approach, saying:
Embracing a 4-day work week and a firm no-crunch policy has been a huge part of realising our approach to game development – that the team feels valued, rested and supported. We know creativity flourishes in a healthy work environment, and we’re confident that the mindful and deliberate pace of Witchbrook delivers this experience to the players.
Additionally, Art Director Steph Caskenette shared the creative vision behind the project:
Witchbrook is our love letter to thoughtful living, the quiet magic of slow moments, and the connections we share with each other and the world around us. Whether players are exploring solo or sharing in the adventure, we hope Witchbrook becomes a space to relax and make lasting memories.
