After nearly two years in early access, the charming outback life sim Dinkum has officially launched version 1.0 on Steam. Developed by solo creator James Bendon, this Australian-inspired game blends cozy simulation with exploration, survival, and town-building in a way that feels both familiar and refreshingly unique.
Originally released in July 2022, Dinkum quickly gained a devoted following. Fans were drawn to its comforting gameplay loop—gather, build, grow, repeat—which felt reminiscent of popular farm sims like Stardew Valley or Animal Crossing. But it stood out with a distinctly Aussie twist: gum trees, kangaroos, outback heatwaves, and crocodile-infested waters. That blend of cozy and wild gave the experience a bold identity all its own.
Now, with its full release, the game is more expansive than ever. Players can build entire towns from scratch, grow diverse crops, raise livestock, and explore a wide range of biomes including beaches, bushlands, mangroves, and more. A rotating cast of quirky visitors and merchants—each with their own backstories and personalities—adds life to the island, giving each in-game day a sense of purpose and surprise.
If you loved the charm of Animal Crossing but found it a little too predictable or passive, Dinkum offers a refreshing twist. This Aussie-inspired life sim layers in survival mechanics like hunger, stamina, heat exhaustion, and seasonal weather. Cozy chores become strategic decisions, and the unpredictability keeps you engaged on a whole new level.
One day, I’m crafting tools and cooking stew by the campfire to prep for a mining trip. The next, I’m expanding my farm, laying down paths, and figuring out where to place my windmills. But then a heatwave rolls in and forces me to pause. Or a thunderstorm interrupts my plans. Sometimes, I get distracted entirely because a rare animal appears, or I notice a new character visiting the town center.
The island’s wild side adds tension and excitement. I’ve tamed a giant wombat to help haul supplies on the farm—definitely a highlight. But I’ve also had to sprint away from a snapping crocodile lurking near the billabong or duck for cover when a fire broke out unexpectedly. These moments of surprise and danger bring the kind of stakes most life sims avoid. Dinkum blends creativity, exploration, and survival in a way that makes every day feel new and slightly unpredictable.I’ll admit—I judged the game on its looks at first (yes, I totally do that—visual style is part of the art form!). I kept comparing it to the soft cuteness of Animal Crossing New Horizons and other cozy sims. And while I love a cute game, I was hesitant. But once I started playing, the half-cute, half-gritty cartoonish style grew on me fast. It’s weirdly charming, and it fits the gameplay perfectly. The environment feels lived in and rustic.
One of the game’s biggest draws is its multiplayer co-op. You can bring friends into your world to help you decorate, fend off predators, or just watch the stars while sitting around the fire pit. Whether you’re hosting or visiting someone else’s island, the experience feels collaborative and fun. It’s especially satisfying to share progress and show off your hard-earned creations with others.
And then there’s the soundtrack. With music by Satsuma Audio, it’s one of my favorite parts of the entire experience. The warm, nostalgic melodies shift with the seasons and time of day. The peaceful background music makes for a calming vibe while watering crops or fishing, but the music also builds tension when you’re battling a jellyfish, shark, or bush devil. The transitions are seamless and really enhance the immersion.
Speaking as someone who’s already logged over 90 hours in Dinkum, it’s easy to see why it’s so addictive. Once you start exploring, crafting, and building your own version of an outback dream town, it’s hard to stop. If you’ve been waiting to dive in or need a reason to return, now is the perfect time.
