Indie developer Cosmic Tofu has confirmed that a closed playtest is on the horizon for its upcoming PC title, In the Van. The studio describes the project as a “cozy post-apocalyptic survival game,” aimed at players who prefer a more relaxed approach to survival mechanics.
Gameplay Mechanics and Loop
The core gameplay loop centers on a mobile base: a customizable van that serves as a sanctuary from the outside world. Players are tasked with scavenging for supplies by day and returning to the safety of their vehicle before dark. Nighttime activities include cooking, farming, and interacting with recovered items, such as cracking open phones found on the undead.
Unlike more punishing titles in the survival genre, Cosmic Tofu emphasizes that players can master the survival routine at their own pace. The developer has characterized the game's zombies as “cute little Stardew-ish pixel zombie friends” that are not particularly difficult to defeat. Players can even use their van to clear clusters of enemies.
Availability and Next Steps
While the studio has not provided a specific release date for the full game, interested players should monitor for updates regarding the upcoming closed playtest. The game is currently slated for release on PC.
Quick Facts
- Developer: Cosmic Tofu (two-person indie studio)
- Platform: PC
- Next Milestone: Closed playtest (date to be announced)