HumaNature Studios announces Dancing with Ghosts for Switch, PC – a life simulation game about finding joy in grief

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As a passionate admirer, I’m thrilled to share that Humanature Studios, under the creative guidance of Greg Johnson, the mastermind behind “ToeJam & Earl” and “Doki-Doki Universe,” has unveiled an upcoming life simulation game titled “Dancing with Ghosts.” This captivating project revolves around discovering solace amidst sorrow. Mark your calendars for its launch in 2026, as it will be available on Nintendo Switch and PC via Steam. Keep a lookout for the Kickstarter campaign, which kicks off in October!

The narrative unfolds around Mai, a 15-year-old Thai girl grappling with a sense of disorientation and burdened by regret following her parents’ demise. In her journey, she encounters a spirit, just 11 years old, who’s lost her memories and is confined to this realm.

The concept emerged following the death of Johnson’s 28-year-old daughter and the devastating loss of his family’s belongings in the 2023 Lahaina fires, serving as the catalyst for it.

Greg Johnson, founder of HumaNature Studios and creator of ‘Dancing with Ghosts’, shared in a press release that he’s faced challenging periods in his life. Yet, he never forgets those who extended a helping hand during his hardships, offering comfort when things seemed bleak. Now, along with his team, Johnson is working on ‘Dancing with Ghosts’ to spread joy to those in need. They hope their endeavors to share this production globally will have your backing.

Here is an overview of the game, via HumaNature Studios:

Dancing with Ghosts offers a heartwarming, interactive tale that’s both moving and amusing, woven into the relaxing gameplay of a vibrant village simulator. In this game, players assume the role of Mai, a 15-year-old Thai girl grappling with loss and guilt following her parents’ demise. Mai encounters a young ghost who has forgotten her past and is stuck in this realm, and together they form an emotional bond as they unravel secrets about their shared fate.

As a captivated spectator, I’m the one who bears witness to the ghostly presence, and there seems to be an intriguing connection tying our destinies together. Moved by this unique bond, I embark on a journey to help the spirit rediscover her identity and achieve her dreams, thus finding peace. Fascinatingly, it’s the ethereal specter who seems to exude more zest for life than I do, the living girl. Determined to assist my spectral friend, I soon find myself learning valuable lessons about embracing life from the very entity I sought to help.

At the core of both the narrative and the game mechanics lies “Dancing with Spirits.” This tale courageously delves into profound questions about life and death, infused with emotion and compassion. It investigates ideas such as self-forgiveness, acceptance, understanding for others’ hardships, and even a form of romance – though in an incredibly pure and endearing manner.

In this game, players take turns assuming the roles of both Mai and a ghostly entity. While playing as Mai, your mission is to aid fellow villagers, accumulating positive Karma that ultimately assists Pim in her journey. The game includes immersive cultural mini-games that align with the narrative’s overarching themes.

In simpler terms, the game allows players to assume the role of a ghost, delving into the thoughts of every villager. This spectral entity can assist the villagers by bestowing upon them “Heartlights,” which provide positive energy. The ghost is also capable of discerning their needs and communicating this information to Mai, who can then offer help accordingly.

Watch the announcement trailer below. View the first screenshots at the gallery.

Announce Trailer

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2025-08-29 23:49