If you’ve been looking for a game that captures the soul of Studio Ghibli while expanding on the Stardew Valley formula, your search ends here. Starsand Island is a stunning anime-inspired cozy life sim that trades the daily grind for a coastal paradise filled with mystery, over 40 types of vehicles, and even a dedicated profession system. On Starsand Island, you can breed colossal watermelons, go skateboarding through the Moonlit Forest, and customize a three-story villa – this game offers a level of freedom rarely seen in the genre. Below is everything you need to know about the upcoming Early Access launch.
Starsand Island Release Date and Global Times
The boat for Starsand Island sets sail on February 11, 2026. The game is launching into Steam Early Access and Xbox Game Preview simultaneously. The developers at Seed Sparkle Lab have confirmed a synchronized global launch at 9:00 AM PST.
Here is when you can start your new island life in your local timezone:
| Region | Release Date | Release Time |
|---|---|---|
| West US (Los Angeles) | February 11, 2026 | 9:00 AM PST |
| East US (New York) | February 11, 2026 | 12:00 PM EST |
| South America (São Paulo) | February 11, 2026 | 2:00 PM BRT |
| UK / West Europe (London) | February 11, 2026 | 5:00 PM GMT |
| Central Europe (Berlin / Paris) | February 11, 2026 | 6:00 PM CET |
| Middle East (Dubai) | February 11, 2026 | 9:00 PM GST |
| East Asia (Seoul) | February 12, 2026 | 2:00 AM KST |
| Japan (Tokyo) | February 12, 2026 | 2:00 AM JST |
| East Australia (Sydney) | February 12, 2026 | 4:00 AM AEDT |
Starsand Island Countdown Clock
If you’re not sure where your time zone fits with the above regions, then check out our handy countdown clock below to see exactly when Starsand Island releases in your region:
Platforms and Early Access Info
For the initial Early Access phase, the game is focusing on two primary platforms:
- PC (Steam): Full Steam Deck support is confirmed.
- Xbox Series X|S: Via Xbox Game Preview.
Note for PS5 and Nintendo Switch 2 owners: While these versions are officially confirmed, they are slated for the 1.0 Full Release in Summer 2026. If you want to play now, you'll need to jump in on PC or Xbox.
What to Expect? Starsand Island Features and Gameplay
Starsand Island isn't just a farming sim – it’s a full sandbox for creativity. You play as a city-dweller returning to your childhood home, but the scope of activities is massive:
- Professions: Choose from diverse paths like Rancher, Crafter, or Fisherman. You aren't locked into one; you can specialize or dabble in all of them.
- Advanced Navigation: Forget just walking. You can craft or buy over 40 vehicles, including skateboards, motorbikes, speedboats, and even aeroplanes.
- Deep Customization: The DIY building system is being compared to The Sims. You can customize every wall, roof, and window of your home, and eventually, you can even own a houseboat or an entire private island.
- The Moonlit Forest: For those who want action, this area features third-person combat with bows and slingshots against corrupted creatures.
Pricing and Editions
Buying during the Early Access period provides a significant discount compared to the planned 1.0 price.
- Standard Edition ($27.93): Includes the base game plus the Chinese New Year Furniture Set and a Neo-Chinese Outfit.
- Deluxe Edition ($41.93): Includes everything in the Standard Edition, plus a Classical Furniture Set, Elegant Formal Outfit, and a Pumpkin Carriage.
The price is expected to increase to approximately $39.99 (Standard) and $59.99 (Deluxe) once the game leaves Early Access in the summer of 2026.
