Newly announced Steam the game, released in Early Access in the summer of 2026, tries to combine Diablo and Stardew Valley and expand the sub-genre of cozy “farm & fight” games. That game is called Embervillefrom developer Cygnus Cross, and boasts an engaging combat system (described as simple yet deep), an extensive skill system, and challenging boss fights. This part apparently comes from Diablo influence, as well as other features such as classes, but don't be fooled: pixel art, customization options and overall atmosphere Stardew Valley.
However, instead of the tired trope of inheriting land from grandparents, players wake up engulfed in the darkness of an endless prison. He is known as the Vitromotus, and the only way players can survive him is through his desire for freedom. There are actually many farming simulators on Steam, but at first glance this might be the only one that starts with players as prisoners. Players learn to navigate the Vitromotus and emerge in the titular city. Once a prosperous city, its inhabitants are now imprisoned and it has fallen into chaos, founding the city Stardew Valley– as a game loop that brings the city to life.
In addition to the expected features of the game described as “Diablo missing Stardew Valley“,” players are tasked with rescuing the civilians of Emberville. In the process, players will learn about their trades and skills, unlock deep secrets and reveal dreams, all while engaging in a series of fun quests. Overall, it remains to be seen how the mechanics of its farming simulator tie into the overarching gameplay loop, but at least one upcoming screenshot evokes a “farm icon.” Stardew Valley.
Confirmed features for Emberville
- REBUILD THE CITY from Emberville.
- GET TO KNOW AND SAVE various “special characters” of Emberville. Complete quests, join them and unlock new mechanics.
- EMBERVILLE WILL CHANGE and it becomes a living center shaped by your actions.
- DARE TO ETERNAL PRISON, complete with hidden knowledge, a menacing environment and face arrogance and corruption at its worst.
- USE WEAPON COMBOS with different weapons and different attacks to face ominous creatures and fearsome bosses.
- LEARN, CHOOSE AND USE combat class skills that range from passive and active skills to learned abilities.
- CUSTOMIZE YOUR CHARACTER with dozens of hairstyles, beard options, facial features, colors and more.
- IMPROVE YOUR CHARACTER through levels, items and using villages.
- CONTINUE YOUR CLASS as you gain combat experience and complete quests, you unlock a wide variety of playstyles.
- BUILD YOUR LANDS in Emberville with a wide variety of homestead transformations, furniture and decorations, and unique materials for potions, food, combat equipment, tools and trinkets.
- SEE EMBERVILLE on Steam in Summer 2026 via PC Early Access.
Emberville has a composite cast
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Doug Cockle (The Charmer games)
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Alex Jordan (Cyberpunk 2077, The Alters, Dragon Age: The Veilguard)
Although there is still much to show Embervilleit's worth repeating that its summer 2026 launch is in early access. Players will be able to provide input for future changes, content additions, and so on. But looking at these screenshots still paints a pretty picture. Any good farming simulator includes key elements, including mining, fishing, and exploration. Of course, the infinite prison acts as another flavor Stardew Valley's mine, too, but that's a good thing in my book.
Generally it seems Emberville is a game that does both Diablo fans and Stardew Valley fans will want to pay attention. It remains to be seen how the game/franchise will fare, especially considering its scope compared to Diablo games, but it's promising with every word and screenshot.
Emberville will be released on Steam Early Access in Summer 2026.
