Eastshade

Absolutely beautiful walking simulator. Some of the environments in this game are 100% breathtaking. The painting theme is also pretty unique in my opinion, and I found myself just wanting to make paintings of every interesting thing I came across.

The story is quite short, but there are some enjoyable sidequests as well. If you like beautiful walking simulators, give this game a try!

Eastshade is the first full-fledged experience made by the aptly named Eastshade Studios. And while it’s taken me a while to finally come back and finish my playthrough, I would say it was well worth returning to the pretty island of Eastshade. In this game, you play as a painter traveling around an island to visit four key locations that your mother loved. Every character is a British anthropomorph: bears, birds (only owls?), monkeys, deer/antelope. There are also non-anthropomorphic cats, pigs, roosters, sheep, owls, waterfoxes.

It’s important to know before you get into this game that Eastshade is a somewhat tedious walking sim with progression, but once you get going, it becomes a lot more fun. Eastshade stays engaging because of its progression systems, where you complete a variety of side quests to reach new areas. For example, you need three people to vouch for you to get into the “big city,” Nava. You also need to complete several quests to learn how to make a boat and cross the river into one region. Eventually, you can purchase a bike which will greatly speed up your journey, a warm coat to let you walk around at night, a fishing rod to fish, and a zip trolley to let you reach other areas and fast-travel. Additionally, there is a crafting and item collection and vendors who will buy and sell various items from you. These vendors will have you painting or give you a huge string of fetch quest tasks that have you running from one side of the island to the other.

The main draw of the game, though, is exploring the beautiful world and painting it. The painting feature is pretty simple. You just click “p” at a scenic location and then choose how to size it before using up one of your canvases and a portion of your “inspiration.” “Inspiration” is a little meter that unfortunately limits how many paintings you can make by stopping you from making more once it reaches zero. The upside to this is that it encourages you to explore the world more because certain locations and discoveries will inspire you more. Additionally, it encourages the player to really consider when they want to make a painting for fun versus when they want to make one for a quest.

The world itself is pretty, but even with settings set to max, the game had a terrible draw distance. Nonetheless, I stopped to take lots of screenshots. The day/night cycle helps aid the world’s beauty. Within that cycle, there is a daily eclipse central to some quests and beautiful in its own right. The Music was immersive, with atmospheric wind rustling and water noises, soft melodic strings, chimes, choral humming, and bird sounds; it’s a meditative experience with zero action, with additional calming where the anthropomorphic characters played their own music.

The story and voice acting are generally pretty good, although these highlights were occasionally hindered by a few broken segments of quests that required you to reload a save. The quests in this game manage to be quite enjoyable with a mix of drama, mystery, and heartwarming ways to aid the people of the island. There is also an interesting conflict between a religious group called The Shez who believe “dream teas” can only be used by a goddess, and a group called The Roots who reside underneath the city and use the “dream teas.” You can drink the dream teas and experience some of these dreams too.

Now there are also quite a lot of cons to Eastshade.
Firstly, Lips aren’t synced to dialogue. Secondly, some quests are too vague in description, and you have to figure out where to go next — no handholding sounds nice but can leave you having to resort to guides if you don’t want to waste hours stumbling around in circles. There are some strange glitches in the dream tea dungeon where you have to reopen the game to be able to open doors and interact with people. Some characters have a day-night cycle, but some don’t, breaking immersion. Painting is mostly used for questing so you can’t do it that much on your own, and it only paints in one style, which is a blurrier version of the game’s graphics. Another con is that the game can’t render detail from “afar,” so you can’t get pretty images of places from above or even Nava when you are too far away. For example, you can’t enjoy the view at the top of the mountain or the hot air balloon ride. There are also some strange visual bugs and some buildings in Nava that don’t make sense. For example, a sky bridge connects to the university building but has a missing piece from the outside and no way in on the inside. Other bugs include fish occasionally swimming in the air above the water and your boat getting stuck on random objects like docks; the raft controls are god-awful. During the detective quest at the inn on the lake, the storm failed to start, which killed the vibes a bit. A painting commission quest also softlocked, and I had no way to complete it.

Other details within the gameworld include the central mechanic of renting a room in an inn and sleeping there, interacting with the City market of Java, and the smaller port town of Lyndon, and finally attending “story time” in the Java Inn. There are also “games” populating the world. These include a large bowl table with marbles and a set of 8 metal pipes/chimes to play. There is also a secret raccoon race where they speak with a Spanish/Arabic accent, as opposed to the rest of the characters’ British accents. I also think the only anthropomorphic birds were owls.

I hope you enjoyed the comprehensive overview of Eastshade, give it a shot if the world interests you, because there’s quite a bit to discover if you give it a chance. Eastshade is waiting.

Motion sickness. First person view only with no option for 3rd person.

Two hours in, so far I have to say it is not for me, a "cosy" game hold together by a quest structure of Oblivion's most boring busy work side quests, even the main quest is a fetch quest in itself, minus the combat, ironically makes me even more anxious than playing Outlast, I just want to get it over with.

The world is beautiful, but almost everyone in Lyndow are insufferably self-indulgent bar the innkeeper. If the fisherman like sandy beaches, why not just walk there? it is short distance from where he is standing, but I will paint for him just for the money so that I could cross that toll bridge that no one is even guarding, I don't care about making friends with a weirdo NPC, I just want to learn how to make a raft from you, I will find your missing ring on a large beach just because I wanted more money and take advantage of your depression, I will fetch you feathers even though you are full of it...no one cares about what you are doing here, everyone is transactional in Eastshade as they are shallower than a puddle, and so am I, it leaves me colder than Richard III in a winter of discontent. "Fetch me this", "Fetch me that", "I really like this", "Do it for me" for the MC, it is nothing but a business opportunity and an excuse to open up another area.

I stopped before Neva, there is no point to continue, I've had enough of this place, busy work is not my idea of relaxing fantasy, busy work is a chord that I want to get it over it.

Wow! This was an otherworldly experience. The scenery in the game was beautiful and it was for the most part a very relaxing experience. I didn't want the game to end.

Great idea but too linear and constrictive - poor execution.

I could say a lot about this game. That it's a statement to the AAA market who all try to compete about being the best at whatever everyone ells is doing, how you don't need to be a massive studio with hundreds of devs to make something beautiful or that you don't need to bow down to corporate overlords to stay in the game market.

But I won't, as describing anything about the details in Eastshade would ruin the experience you will have first time landing on this wonderful island. All I want you to know, is that this is one of very few games I simply felt joy just by being in the world. Take the breather in your gaming to have a stroll across Eastshade and enjoy the love these people poured into their game.

I think honestly, Eastshade is wonderful. I find myself in awe particularly of it’s scope, and genuinely refreshing core mechanics. So often I find myself longing for ‘another Eastshade’, only to realise none exists… and that is it’s wonder. There are some very occasional janky gameplay moments. But honestly they pale to the experience of drinking this one in. The music is beautiful, as is the world design and architecture. The quests can genuinely surprise you, some with unique mechanics that you never expected to be in the game. When the credits role, Eastshade will have made it’s mark. Thank you Danny and Jaclyn, and congratulations.

Good game!

Beautiful game

If you want to walk around taking screenshots of a forest, or just chill, then this is a game to do it.

Kinda niche, very cozy, pretty colors and nice music. I only wish that the painting process was a bit more involved, but all its a pretty awesome experience.

Very pretty and peaceful game

I just want to wander around, explore the world and paint some beautiful pictures. Instead I'm forced to paint specific stuff and sell it. And everyone needs something from me and I have no idea where to begin to take the story further. This is not relaxing at all. That's more like real life.

I've played this game almost 4 years ago and it still pops in my mind as soon as I think about a peaceful and beautiful experience.

I wasn't particularly a fan of the NPC's aesthetic at first, but quickly got used to it and after a while discovering new characters was pretty sweet. The artistic topic, the kindness of the encounters and quests (or the strangeness too!) and the oh so gorgeous soundtrack truly moved me.

This world is truly magical, in many ways, and is also so gorgeous it actually brought me to tears because of how it touched me.

Walking simulators can sometimes be a little bit dull on some occasions, but this one? Wandering around was such a wonder, by the time I finished all the quests and had to finish the game I only wanted to stay in this beautiful place for a while longer.

Really, an experience I'll never forget (but wish I could to discover it all again).

It's like living a new life entirely. Relaxing and challenging plot at the same time.

Lovely game in every way!

I suppose I'm not much of a gamer, but maybe that's because I've never encountered a game like Eastshade before. I lead a busy, stressful life, and when I have time to play, I want to relax, be immersed in something beautiful and restful and fun -- and that is what Eastshade does. You don't have to worry about death and dying, being attacked by evil baddies, or other adrenaline loading game dynamics. There is just enough dramatic tension, quests, and goal setting to keep me engaged wandering through its stunning visuals. Playing Eastshade feels like a spa day for your brain.

So good I bought it twice! Returned to this game after a few years and it's just as lovely as I remembered it. A lovely game of relaxation ad beauty.

Great for Anyone that Appreciates Art and Relaxing

Again, Highly Recommended, overall. Great for all ages. Nice, beautiful, breath taking little exploration. Very Atmospheric.

I love to relax and paint beautiful landscapes in this lovely and otherworldy game

One of the most beautiful games I have ever played :)

bear lesbians <3

A couple years ago my English professor assigned the class to play "Eastshade" and for stingy reasons I didn't play it at the time, however, two years later, I'm upset I didn't play this game sooner. What an absolutely incredible experience playing this game was that I instantly bought the prequel :P

The environments, the music, the story, the level design, the mechanics--every aspect of the game was magnificent. After playing it, I'm confident in saying that this is one of the greatest games I've ever played. I don't think I have anything bad to say about it other than I genuinely wish it had been longer than 13 hours.

The game felt so intricate and intimate, which made it all the more special. Each monument in the game felt individually catered to the story and I never ran out of things to do. Personally, I think that this game is criminally underrated, and it would be amazing to work at a studio capable of creating something like this. I don't say this a lot, but you can truly feel the love and passion that went into the creation of "Eastshade", and that's so refreshing to see. The music was also another hot point of this game, it easily has become one of my favorite soundtracks of all time.

Every part of the game was an absolute blast, and the ending genuinely brought me to tears. It is safe to say that I am beyond excited to see what this studio creates next. They've crafted a uniquely magical formula that I cannot wait to see and get my hands on next with their future IP's.

Eastshade: A Tranquil Masterpiece of Exploration

Eastshade is a unique open-world adventure game developed by Eastshade Studios, offering a peaceful and meditative experience that sets it apart from most games in the genre. It invites players into a beautifully handcrafted world filled with lush forests, serene coastlines, and charming villages, all ripe for exploration and artistic inspiration.

Art and Atmosphere:
At its core, Eastshade is about painting—both literally and figuratively. You play as a traveling artist, tasked with capturing the beauty of the world through paintings. The landscapes are breathtaking, with dynamic lighting and weather effects that make every location feel alive. From the towering trees of Lyndow to the tranquil waters of the Tiffmoor Bluffs, the game is a visual feast that encourages you to slow down and take in your surroundings.

The soundtrack complements the visuals perfectly, with gentle melodies that enhance the serene atmosphere. This combination of stunning visuals and a soothing score makes Eastshade an incredibly immersive experience.

Gameplay and Story:
The gameplay revolves around exploration, interaction, and creativity. As an artist, you craft canvases and paint scenes requested by the game’s anthropomorphic inhabitants or ones that personally inspire you. These paintings often drive the game’s quests, which range from helping villagers with personal problems to uncovering hidden secrets.

What stands out is the emphasis on choice and consequence. Dialogue options can influence how characters perceive you, and your decisions shape the world in subtle ways. There’s no combat, and the lack of traditional challenges allows you to focus on exploration and storytelling, making it a perfect choice for players seeking a relaxing yet engaging experience.

Themes and Emotional Depth:
Beneath its tranquil surface, Eastshade explores themes of connection, purpose, and the pursuit of beauty. Conversations with the locals reveal touching stories, humor, and moments of introspection. It’s a game that encourages empathy and mindfulness, leaving a lasting impression even after the credits roll.

Room for Improvement:
While Eastshade is a gem, it’s not without its flaws. The inventory and crafting system can feel cumbersome at times, and occasional technical glitches may momentarily break immersion. Additionally, the slower pace and lack of combat may not appeal to players looking for more action-packed experiences.

Conclusion:
Eastshade is a breath of fresh air in the gaming landscape, offering a tranquil and deeply rewarding journey through a world that feels both magical and grounded. It’s a game that celebrates creativity, connection, and the simple joys of exploration. If you’re looking for a unique and calming experience that allows you to express yourself as an artist while uncovering a heartfelt story, Eastshade is well worth your time.

Score: 7.5/10

i love this game when i need a break for the same ol same ol!!!! super relaxing and engaging

One of the best games I have ever purchased since the Myst adventures.

what a pretty, cozy, detail rich game. Really enjoyed the story. Also runs great on the deck!

If you want a polished game, then this is NOT for you. It has bugs and wonky terrain collision. It kindof looks like Oblivion or Skyrim from the visuals even on max graphics. The dialogue most part isn't reactive to events that have happened (even to those NPCs themselves).

Other than that, it's wonderful. Interesting and fun. Save often and if you can't get some achievements on your first run there are always saves available in the guides section that help you get them faster.

Great chill game. Walk around, paint beautiful landscapes, help people. Stutters a bit (5700X3D, 3080) but mostly alleviated by turning graphics down.

One of the best cozy games I've played! You get to explore the entire beautiful island, and there are lots of quests to complete.

Graphics aren't always everything; this has great atmosphere and a soothing property I think is even better than action and gore sometimes. Well worth a game or two

Its a great chill cosy game.

A soothing and unique adventure.

As a traveling painter, you explore vivid landscapes, create art and uncover heartfelt stories. Personally, I find the visuals beautiful and the serene soundtrack perfectly complements the calming atmosphere. The voice acting for the NPCs is great, adding depth and personality to the world.

The painting mechanic is simple and rewarding, but not outstanding. The quests encourage exploration. However, they can sometimes feel repetitive.

Despite that, Eastshade is a standout game for anyone looking for a peaceful and immersive escape. Its relaxing world, creative gameplay, and touching NPCs make it a memorable journey, that's well worth experiencing.

I enjpy it a lot.

Eastshade is a breathtakingly beautiful adventure game that feels like a moving painting. Its story and art direction are absolutely superb, creating a serene and immersive atmosphere that encourages exploration and creativity. The painting mechanic is a standout feature—unique, innovative, and integral to the gameplay, making it unlike anything I’ve experienced in other games.

The world itself is a joy to explore, filled with stunning vistas and charming characters, and the overall atmosphere is incredibly relaxing. However, I did encounter a frustrating bug where the save function suddenly stopped working, which took some effort to resolve. Aside from that hiccup, the game was a perfect experience.

If you’re looking for a game that combines gorgeous visuals with creative mechanics and a sense of tranquility, Eastshade is a must-play.

It wasn't for me, but I could definitely see the appeal. Beautifully designed, interesting characters, but walking sims, even the great ones, are a love-it-or-hate-it relationship. Still, you should give it a try, it's not expensive and it IS a cool game.

Definitely recommend to anyone who needs to run away from the real world and catch a breath or forget about stress and sadness. Eastshade is a place where people know that the true meaning of life is about tea, poetry and enjoying the beauty of the world around them. Everyone is nice, the sceneries of the island are amazing and your only quest is to enjoy. I wish I could life there…

+ setting and animation
+ easy game play
+ feelgood game

~ story

- nothing

I quite literally only did a single quest before dropping the game - unfortunately, the core mechanic of creating paintings of whatever you want is done poorly, which for me makes the game completely worthless. The game is about taking pretty screenshots, yet those screenshots actually look HORRIBLE (they just look like super low-quality screenshots, not paintings - if there is a painting-style filter it's done really poorly). Performance is also not great, and the graphics are pretty bad for a game specifically designed around being beautiful.

Yes

If you're expecting a chill exploration game where you simply paint scenery, this game isn't it. The scenery is very pretty (though the graphics really aren't that great). I didn't make it far into the game and ended up refunding it simply because it was not fun to play.
The first time I played the game I got an infinite loading screen and had to start over. The character design is simply atrocious. During the time I played I genuinely didn't feel like I was relaxing or exploring, as the quests given were just to help NPCs. I thought I could just go and paint whatever I want, but that was just not the case.

I'm not exaggerating when I call this my comfort game. Getting to wander around beautiful scenery, making friends, helping others, and capturing that scenery in paintings is the perfect kind of escapism I seek out when I need just a little bit of quiet and comfort in my life. I will never stop recommending this game.

Peaceful!

This game is relaxing.

The good:
- Really peaceful, beautiful environments
- Good voice-acting
- Immersive
- Fun quests, nice variety and often gives different approaches/choices you can make

What can be improved:
- No or not enough explanation/tutorials about what you need to do / how some game mechanics work
- Journal quest entries can be vague, leaving you unsure on how to progress
- Bugs! Quiiite a few of them. Save often.

Relaxing and enjoyable. Needed a bit more info than the game gave on two quests. No big deal. Rest was great.

I bought and played it immediately when it came out and loved it.
Now I've played it again after 5 years and it holds up still, it's a beautiful and relaxing game.

If you like collecting things and doing side quests then boy do I have a game for you

This is very cozy and relaxing game and in the end it delivers what it promised. It has some faults but I did enjoy it. First of all the textures are really rough so the quality is way below what you see on the screenshots. For me it was still good enough though. The conversations unfortunately do not matter much and most of the characters live in the same place even without going to a city or village nearby (seems lazy backstory writing). Quests could be difficult to follow since there are no quest markers. If you make a pause for a while from the game, the only way to figure out who waits for you and where to go would be to use a guide. It is an idyllic place so there is no drama, no fighting just simple day to day cases. There is no romance either (there is one quest assisting two females find love in each other but that is literally it for the whole game). Warning - painting pictures is more or less less screenshoting what you see - your task is to find a proper composition so be mindful of what you expect from the game.

Eastshade is a very good adventure game, this is a sequel to Leaving Lyndow game. The story is great, the graphics are really beautiful and the ambiant is so cozy. I recommend it!!! 💗💗💗

If you play adventure RPGs and enjoy the cosy side-quests as a breather from the stress of combat, then this is the game for you. Eastshade is incredibly relaxing. There is no rush to complete anything by specific times, no fighting. You go at your own pace and it is about impossible to get lost in what you should do next: just follow one of the questlines.