An intriguing new game on Steam, which draws inspiration from Minecraft, is making waves with its unconventional approach to fundraising through a Kickstarter campaign. Traditionally, Kickstarter serves as a platform for emerging companies to secure the necessary funds for a variety of creative projects, ranging from video games to films and beyond. Backers often enjoy the dual benefit of receiving early access to products and exclusive stretch goals that are unavailable in retail settings. This model typically fosters a mutually beneficial relationship between creators and supporters.
However, the landscape of crowdfunding is not without its pitfalls. While many projects successfully reach fruition, some may falter due to financial constraints or, in rare cases, less-than-honest intentions from creators.
New Minecraft Steam Rival Has a Goal!
Enter Bonobo Software, the indie team behind Taival, a crafting RPG that invites players into a cozy co-op adventure. The Kickstarter campaign has set an audacious fundraising goal of just /£1. “Play together on the couch or online – or both at once. Taival is a cosy co-op adventure where you and up to three friends explore a handcrafted world alongside your shapeshifting companion. Discover new forms, progress through narrative quests, and make the journey your own,” the developers describe.
While Taival shares thematic elements with Minecraft, its graphics present a unique, almost hyper-realistic aesthetic reminiscent of advanced mods for the classic game. The gameplay trailer suggests a delightful experience awaits players. Although the game is set to launch on Steam at an undetermined date, the Kickstarter campaign aims not only to secure funding but also to enhance the game beyond initial expectations.
In a bold move that has garnered significant attention, the developers have opted for a fundraising target that is notably low. “Over 3,000 of you joined our playtest. We now have over 10,000 wishlists. In just 10 days, mind-blowing. We just did something our publisher told us not to do and launched a €1 Kickstarter goal – yeah, we went crazy!” they shared in a recent update. “The journey is real. Taival is real, and we want to build the game with you, our Steam community.”
They further emphasized the importance of community involvement: “Every Steam community member, every playtester, every wishlister means something to this journey we call Taival – so if you believe in Taival, we encourage you to back us! To prove to platforms, press, and partners that Taival is real and this game is worth it.”
What Kickstarter Rewards Does the Taival Campaign Have?
For those interested in supporting the project, a /£1 pledge allows backers to contribute without any strings attached. A /£20 donation secures a digital copy of the game, inclusion in the credits, and an exclusive Discord role. For the most dedicated supporters, a 0/£900 tier offers the chance to be included in the game itself, along with additional perks.
If all goes according to plan, the developers aim to release Taival on Steam in early access later this year, with a full launch anticipated in “2027 or later.” Future plans also include potential releases on PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo platforms.
To stay informed about Taival’s development, interested parties can wishlist the game on Steam or follow its Kickstarter campaign—no financial commitment required for those who simply wish to keep tabs on its progress.