If you are into cozy games then you should look out for Grimoire Groves. This is a new cozy dungeon crawler which is being developed by Stardust and it is set to be released on 4th March 2025. The game brings together a blend of magic, nature and adventure. Grimoire Groves brings a cozy twist in the dungeon crawler genre. Instead of traditional roguelike with harsh difficulty you will experience a delightful stress free gaming experience.
“Join the witches in their quest to restore the Grimoire Groves! Master magic, grow cute plant creatures and discover the mystery of the Rainbow Socks in this cozy, rogue-lite dungeon crawler.”
The game stands out because of its unique blend of roguelike and cozy gaming genre. The game offers a mix of strategy, gardening and combat.
Story and Setting
The game introduces you to a world of witches, mystical forest and ancient magic. You will take the role of Primrose who is a young witch living in her aunt Lavender’s cottage. She discovers that the once thriving Grimoire Groves are now withered and dying.
“With a little hard work, investigation and magic, the witches might just restore the Grimoire Groves to the lush forest it once was!”
The grove was once filled with magical plant creatures and various spell giving mushrooms which have lost their vitality. You guessed it right! Your mission is to restore them by learning new spells, seeking help from spirits and of course collecting seeds.
As you progress further you will forge bonds with magical creatures and uncover the mystery behind rainbow socks. The story is designed to be lighthearted, cozy yet immersive.
Spell-Based Combat and Exploration
At the core of the game the main show stopper is the spell-based combat. Players can unlock and upgrade their spells by growing different types of mushrooms. Each mushroom tree represents different spells. These spells can help you to battle hostile creatures and restore the grove slowly.
“Unlock and learn new spells to complete your grimoire. Mix and match different spells to find your own brand of magic and master the balance between all four elements.”
There are various spells like:
- Water spells which might be useful for watering plants and of course fight against fire enemies.
- Earth spells can help you to grow new plants or you can use as a shield during fights.
- Fire spells are offensive spells which helps you for attacking and clearing obstacles.
Growing Magical Plant Creatures
Another important aspect of the game is gardening. If you are someone who already loves farming simulator games like Stardew you will love Grimoire Groves. Instead of just looting armor or weapons you have to grow enchanted plants to collect their power.
“Collect fruits, craft new spells and items and grow plant creatures to repopulate the forest. Honor the witch tradition of foraging and learn to enhance your powers.”
The mushroom trees give you new spells and abilities. The magical flowers will grant you passive buffs like faster spell recharge; these are helpful during battles. Of course there are elemental sprouts which will attract mythical creatures who will help you during fights.
“Find the fabled forest spirits and give them a new home. Help them restore the balance of the groves by boosting their magical powers, as well as your own, with decorations around your cottage.”
Roguelite Progression
The game still has its proper roguelike progressions. Death is not the end of everything. Instead if you fail you will start over again and yes you can keep some of your resources. You can improve your spells, gardening tools and exploration tools.
Graphics and Art Style
The graphics of the game are really eye catchy. The artstyle looks like a vibrant story-book-like art style which reminds players of Cozy Grove, Stardew Valley or Hades. The forest looks like colorful forests with enchanted ruins and magical creatures. Moreover, the color palette has a soft aesthetic pastel vibe which makes it look super cozy.
Conclusion
At the end of the day the game looks magical, cozy and whimsical. The game perfectly blends the roguelike and cozy game genre to provide the best of both worlds. This is a perfect game to keep in your list for the spring season. Grimoire Groves might as well become this season’s indie hit!
