A circus troupe comes to Yomogi Town, a rural town in Japan situated between mountains and the ocean. As the son of the circus ringmaster, enjoy a special summer filled with wholesome adventures!
Players can freely roam the rural town of Yomogi and the surrounding countryside, which is brought to life through a fully 3D environment. The open-world design, inspired by The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, allows players to climb buildings, scale cliffs, and discover hidden pathways, expanding the scope of their exploration. Mastering the game's traversal mechanics, such as gradually increasing the protagonist's stamina, opens up new areas to uncover.
The game features a dynamic day/night cycle, with the in-game day lasting roughly 11 hours before curfew at 10 PM. Players must balance main story events, side activities, and exploration during this time, encouraging them to prioritize their daily tasks. Adjusting the passage of time to "Leisurely" in the settings allows players to freely relax and enjoy the world at their own pace.
Throughout the town and countryside, players can partake in a diverse array of activities and mini-tasks. These include catching bugs and fish, donating them to the local museum, participating in the town's festivals, solving mysteries, and assisting the eccentric residents with their daily lives. Completing collections of rare bugs, fish, and other items provides a substantial gameplay loop with rewarding unlocks.
The game's overall relaxed and wholesome atmosphere encourages players to immerse themselves in the leisurely pace of summer vacation. The lack of combat or high-stakes conflict allows the focus to remain on the joy of exploration, discovery, and interacting with the charming cast of characters. This serene and nostalgic experience resonates with many players, providing a soothing and comforting gameplay experience.