Game: The Hidden Art of Innkeeping
Genre: Adventure, Indie, Simulation
System: Steam (Windows)
Developer | Publisher: SeaPhoenix
Controller Support: Yes
Price: US $7.99 | UK £6.69 | EU € 7,79
Release Date: September 4th, 2024
A review code was used with thanks to SeaPhoenix.
Step into a quaint seaside village in The Hidden Art of Innkeeping, where you’ll transform a weathered farmhouse into a grand luxury inn! Here, you’ll encounter an array of intriguing guests, master delicious culinary creations, and discover new and hidden areas bursting with treasures.
A Bad Experience Paves The Way
In The Hidden Art of Innkeeping, after your character’s disastrous stay at the local inn during vacation—think bedbugs, cold showers, and room service that never arrived—you uncover an old, crumbling farmhouse in a nearby village. It’s basically a horror movie set, but you see potential.
In a dramatic twist worthy of a reality show, you buy the farmhouse with dreams of turning it into a luxury inn that outshines the lousy hotel you stayed at. Armed with nothing but grit, determination, and a questionable sense of decor, you set out to transform the place from dirt to diamonds.
Relax…or Not. It’s Up to You in The Hidden Art of Innkeeping
Ever dreamt of paying off a loan in just 30 days? Or maybe you’re in the mood for a more relaxed 40-day repayment plan—because who doesn’t love a good stretch? In The Hidden Art of Innkeeping, as the all-powerful inn manager, you’ll dive headfirst into the delightfully eccentric world of village life. The locals are quirky, and they’re practically throwing opportunities at you to jazz up your inn. Think snazzy guest amenities, fantastic hotel upgrades, and a treasure trove of wacky side quests.
These side quests are anything but mundane, though. No, sir! You can tackle them in a variety of creative and often hilarious ways. Experimentation isn’t just encouraged—it’s practically mandatory. Imagine mixing and matching solutions like a mad scientist in a lab. The villagers have stories richer than a chocolate fondue, and helping them will turn your modest inn into the hottest spot in town.
Minimalist with a Punch
In The Hidden Art of Innkeeping, the game’s art is a masterclass in minimalist charm, proving once again why indie titles hold a special place in my heart. Picture handcrafted paintings that look like they were whipped up by Bob Ross after a few too many espressos. These delightful artworks pop up throughout your establishment, giving it that unmistakable indie flair.
Each piece of art is like a quirky little narrative, adding depth and personality to your surroundings. It’s as if the developers raided a hipster gallery and carefully selected each painting to match the game’s whimsical vibe perfectly. You’ll find yourself pausing just to admire the creativity and detail in these visuals like you’re in a never-ending art exhibit.
What makes the art truly special is how it seamlessly blends with the gameplay. It’s not just background filler; it’s an integral part of the game’s charm. The simplicity and effectiveness of the visuals remind us that sometimes, less really is more. So, next time you’re immersed in this game, take a moment to appreciate the art—its indie brilliance at its finest.
Not Just Employees
One of the best parts of the game is the slow reveal of inn upgrades—it’s like getting a new toy every time you level up! Meeting guests and booking their rooms feels like hosting the quirkiest Airbnb ever. As the game progresses, you get to build your dream team. First, there’s the housekeeper, who’s basically a super-sleuth for lost items. Then, you’ve got the chef, a culinary wizard whipping up whatever weird cravings your guests dream up at 2 AM. And let’s not forget the receptionist, the all-knowing oracle who predicts guest arrivals so you can roll out the red carpet in style.
What really takes the cake is how each upgrade and hire adds a fresh layer of fun to the game. The housekeeper not only keeps things spick and span but also turns cleaning into a treasure hunt. The chef doesn’t just cook; they bring in the aroma of a five-star kitchen, making your inn smell like a gourmet restaurant. And the receptionist? They’re like your personal assistant, keeping you in the loop and ready for anything.
Conclusion
The Hidden Art of Innkeeping isn’t just a game; it’s like stepping into a world where Bob Ross meets your most imaginative dreams in a charming inn full of quirks. The art is as captivating as a Netflix binge, the gameplay’s got more twists than a rollercoaster, and the characters are so quirky they make your eccentric neighbour look boring. It’s everything I adore about games, all packed into one delightfully immersive experience. The Hidden Art of Innkeeping is available to buy on Steam here
Final Verdict: Two Thumbs Up: 
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