tavern management Archives

AppWizard

August 13, 2026

Cozy wizard life simulation game Aether Wizard Life launches in fall 2028 for PS5, Xbox Series, Switch 2, and PC

Kinetic Publishing has partnered with Vonder Games to release the life simulation game, Aether Wizard Life, on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series, Switch 2, and PC via Steam, scheduled for fall 2028. Players will take on the role of a young apprentice mage in the haunted town of Starfall, starting each day in a customizable walking castle. Gameplay includes growing magical crops, caring for exotic creatures, exploring dungeons, and engaging with townsfolk for side quests. The game features over 30 wizard skills, customization options for the player's wizard, and the ability to pursue romantic relationships with 20 dateable NPCs. Key elements include mastery of magic, exploration of the haunted town, castle personalization, and assisting townsfolk while uncovering the mystery of missing mages. A new video and screenshots have been released to showcase the game.

AppWizard

November 25, 2025

‘It wasn’t fun for the first 7 years’ says maker of fantasy sim Tavern Keeper, which spent more than a decade in development

Tavern Keeper is a fantasy simulation game that allows players to manage a pub, featuring extensive animations and user-friendly item design tools. It was released on Steam in November after over a decade of development, during which six versions were created. The game includes an interactive audiobook-style story system with RPG-like dialogue choices. Greenheart Games explored various systems that did not make it into the final game, including a quest system involving heroes, which was ultimately deemed disconnected from the tavern theme. The game incorporates complex mechanics such as temperature effects, food spoilage, and cleanliness impacting the tavern's atmosphere. The development process faced challenges, particularly in achieving a fun gameplay experience, which took several years to realize.

AppWizard

November 21, 2025

Tavern Keeper: It’s Good

Tavern Keeper is a fantasy barkeeping video game that combines management simulation with creative customization. Players manage taverns by designing layouts, hiring staff, and ensuring operations run smoothly. The game features a creation suite that allows players to craft items like bookshelves and paintings, fostering a community for sharing designs. Challenges include hiring staff with questionable skills and managing customer satisfaction amidst chaotic scenarios. Players can adjust difficulty settings to suit their preferences. The game incorporates humor throughout, enhancing player engagement. Currently in Early Access, it has received positive feedback for its depth and personalization options.