Among the many adorable announcements in last week’s Wholesome Direct, there’s one that will be of particular interest to Kiwis: a release date for Flutter Away, the latest game from Dunedin-based developer Runaway Play. The nature exploration game comes to Switch and PC (via Steam)on 3 August 2023.
In keeping with the studio’s trend of cozy, peaceful, nature-oriented games, Flutter Away casts you as a butterfly researcher on a five-day camping trip in the Amazon rainforest. With a camera and notebook in hand, you’re tasked with taking photos and recording details about the wildlife and plants you discover. A variety of tasks and an unlikely friendship with a shy capybara give players objectives to complete at their leisure, but the game is just as much about enjoying the relaxing atmosphere.
“We hope people really enjoy being able to take a brief, tranquil trip to the Amazon with Flutter Away,” said Runaway Play, CEO, Zoe Hobson. “Making this announcement during Wholesome Direct is such an amazing honor – we hope travelers from all over can enjoy the Amazon Rainforest this August on PC and Nintendo Switch!”
Runaway Play’s focus is on creating a sustainable, inclusive work environment to develop games that promote kaitiakitanga (conservation) and māramatanga (awareness) of our natural environment. They’ve released a handful of mobile games over the last few years, including the likes of Old Friends Dog Game and Furistas Cat Cafe. Flutter Away will be the studio’s first console and PC release, and judging from the latest trailer, it looks like it’s shaping up nicely.
