Publisher Kinephantom and solo developer Erik Rempen of Silk Softworks have unveiled a fresh look at ShantyTown, a relaxing diorama-builder about fitting life into small, unexpected spaces. Alongside a newly released trailer, the public demo has also been updated, giving players an early taste of what’s to come ahead of the game’s full launch on April 16, 2026, on Steam.
Four years in the making, ShantyTown invites players into a calm, atmospheric experience where creativity is guided by instinct rather than strict rules. Players stack shops, tuck rooftop gardens into tight corners, and slowly layer details until each improvised neighbourhood comes alive. What began as a modest experiment has grown into a complete, thoughtfully crafted game that celebrates the charm and honesty of dense, imperfect cityscapes.
A builder that rewards intuition and calm creativity
At its core, ShantyTown is about freedom and expression. Objects can be placed wherever they feel right, allowing players to shape spaces that feel personal and organic rather than optimised. There are no rigid constraints—only the satisfaction of watching a small world take shape through thoughtful placement and detail.
The experience is designed to be deeply relaxing, supported by an adaptive day-to-night cycle and a custom soundtrack by artist Macroblank. The music evolves gently as players build, creating a peaceful atmosphere that encourages slow, mindful play.
Small details that bring the world to life
Beyond building, ShantyTown is filled with playful touches that give its dioramas personality. Walking houses, drifting birds, and subtle visual surprises reward careful observation, reinforcing the sense that each tiny town has a life of its own.
Players can also step into the role of a virtual photographer. Once a diorama is complete, it can be photographed and added to an in-game dossier, allowing players to revisit their creations later or share them with friends.
Demo available now on Steam
Players can wishlist ShantyTown on Steam today and jump into the newly updated free demo, which reflects the game’s continued refinement as it approaches release.
