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Into the Wind is an upcoming cozy open-world game on Steam that brings the charming visuals of Studio Ghibli anime to the gameplay formula of Death Stranding. Into the Wind has no release date on Steam at the time of writing. However, its gameplay trailers have already built anticipation among PC gamers.
Similar to other open-world games like Death Stranding, cargo delivery sits at the heart of Into the Wind‘s gameplay loop. Players take on the role of a young person who inherits a delivery business from their uncle. They must juggle their time between delivering packages on their own and running and expanding the business.
Into the Wind’s Gameplay Reveal Has Led to Death Stranding Comparisons
The first couple of gameplay trailers for Into the Wind have drawn comments calling it “a cozy version of Death Stranding.” Into the Wind lets players deliver cargo using a motorcycle-plane, a hybrid vehicle that can travel on both land and in the air. Cargo weight, size, and shape affect deliveries, while environmental conditions such as rain, lightning, and landslides can also halt them.
Into the Wind Has Porco Rosso-Like Aircraft Combat
Despite its cute visuals inspired by Studio Ghibli works, Into the Wind features some intense combat mechanics. It actually has aerial battles between the protagonist and cargo pirates that appear inspired by the Porco Rosso anime. Flying the hybrid vehicle comes with its own challenges. Into the Wind puts an emphasis on cargo weight, so the bike struggles to fly when carrying heavy items. However, players can upgrade their ride and likely give it more power to take off while carrying heavier loads.
It Is Also a Life Sim
Delivering cargo in Into the Wind opens up many parts of the gameplay, including some of its life sim-style mechanics that have become staples of the cozy game genre. When not handling dangerous jobs, players can decorate their homes or offices. They can also explore the game’s Italy-inspired island, Santa Rosa, and meet the locals. While the life sim elements appear secondary to the core delivery and combat mechanics, they could still make the gameplay loop feel less repetitive and more meaningful.
Into the Wind is still in active development and has no exact release date. However, developer Bloom & Gloom Games has confirmed two details. First, the game will enter Steam’s early access program before its full release. Second, Into the Wind will hold a playtest in advance to ensure its fundamental systems work properly. Players can sign up for the playtest through the game’s Steam page, though registration does not guarantee access. Those who do not want to miss the launch can wishlist Into the Wind on Steam. According to the developer, the game surpassed 50,000 wishlists in June 2026, shortly after its announcement.
