PlayStation 5 gets 88% Positive Stardew Valley alternative today

PlayStation 5 owners are finally catching up to PC, Xbox, and even Nintendo platforms today, as a brilliant Stardew Valley alternative has finally landed.

We’ve all been trapped in a cosy video game at one point or another, with Stardew Valley in particular consuming hours and hours of our free time.

Starsand Island is about to consume hours more, for PlayStation 5 owners in particular.

After seeing success on PC, Xbox and Nintendo Switch/Nintendo Switch 2, the game has finally made it to Sony’s platform as of August 18 2026.

Developed and published by Seed Sparkle Lab, this life-sim game gives you a taste of the good life living on a tropical, lush island.

It’s like Animal Crossing: New Horizons, but without the animals and no annoying characters like Tom Nook pushing you to pay off a mortgage.

The game’s synopsis reads: “Tired of the city grind? Escape to Starsand Island and embrace the simple joys of country life! Live alongside capybaras, cats, and dogs, reel in a big catch, and explore the enchanting Moonlit Forest. Leave the hustle behind and experience the charm of this seaside paradise.”

What are gamers saying about Starsand Island?

After a couple of previews ourselves, we’d wholeheartedly recommend Starsand Island, with our very own Kate Harrold saying it’s everything she’s ever wanted in a cosy game.

While it’s not everyone’s cup of tea, it does have an 88% positive rating on Steam, with plenty of gamers enjoying all it has to offer.

“Solid crafting gameplay, presentation, and controls. Great graphics and soundtrack. Relaxing,” put one review simply.

Another read: “As someone who has put hundreds of hours in Harvest Moon and Stardew Valley, I enjoy the fresh take on a farming simulator. While I do not think it has the replay value and consistent grind potential like Stardew, I do think it's a good game.”

One final review read: “I simply loved this game; it's one of the best farming and exploration life sims I've ever played, besides being absolutely beautiful and cute!! The game has a huge island full of things to do, from taking care of your little farm, planting and growing different kinds of fruits and vegetables, to fishing, exploring nature, raising animals and interacting with the island inhabitants.”

Is Starsand Island going to be on PlayStation Plus?

Unfortunately, Starsand Island will not be a PlayStation Plus title. In order to play, you’ll have to pay its standard $39.99/£32.99 retail price.

Those who do want to play it via a subscription service can do so with Xbox Game Pass if you have an Xbox Series X/S.

While it’s not available for PlayStation Plus subscribers at the time of writing, there’s nothing saying it can’t join the service at a later date.