Calico
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About Calico
Calico is a cozy single-player simulator with RPG elements set in a sleepy town full of magical girls and cats. You inherit a struggling cat café and spend time renovating it, hiring quirky staff, cooking pastries, and befriending feline companions. Developed by Peachy Keen Games and published by Whitethorn Games, it launched in late 2020 across PC, consoles, and Stadia. The game blends light resource management with character customization, aiming to create a relaxing experience. Its charm hinges on whimsical aesthetics and slow-paced tasks, though critics and players are split on whether it justifies its existence as a niche simulator.
Gameplay
You spend most sessions decorating the café, adjusting furniture, and cooking recipes from a limited menu. Gameplay cycles between managing staff schedules, upgrading equipment, and interacting with cats that occasionally demand attention. Combat is absent, replaced by mini-games like brewing coffee or assembling furniture. Progression involves leveling up your character to unlock new skills, while side quests involve chatting with townsfolk about their oddball hobbies. Sessions rarely last longer than 45 minutes, with repetitive loops emerging quickly. Controls are point-and-click on PC, though menu navigation feels clunky compared to similar games. The RPG elements add depth but don’t fully offset the monotonous core mechanics.
What Players Think
PlayPile data shows 44% of players felt “Happy” while playing, 33% “Meh,” and 23% “Annoyed.” The IGDB score of 54.1/100 reflects mixed reception, with 16 ratings skewed toward average. Average completion time is 13.6 hours, and only 28.4% of players unlock achievements, many of which require tedious repetition like serving 500 pastries. Reviews note the game “feels like a half-baked Stardew Valley clone” and “charming but forgettable.” Positive feedback highlights the art style and cat interactions, while criticism centers on shallow systems and a lack of meaningful goals. Players who enjoy minimal-effort management might tolerate it, but others find it lacks polish.
PlayPile's Take
Calico is a $19.99 time sink for fans of ultra-casual simulators. Its 13 achievements are easy but tedious, and the low-stress vibe might appeal to those seeking background filler content. However, the game’s repetitive loops and underdeveloped mechanics make it a weak entry in the genre. It’s best suited for players who prioritize aesthetics over depth or have hours to waste on low-effort tasks. If you’ve enjoyed games like Animal Crossing but want something less engaging, this could work. Otherwise, skip it.
Game Modes
Single player
IGDB Rating
54.1
RAWG Rating
3.0
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