Cozy creature-collector hits 500% of its funding goal in 24 hours

The Kickstarter campaign for a cute, pixel-art monster-growing game, Monsterpatch, launched on Tuesday this week, and received an incredible outpouring of support. The goal was set at a modest $15 thousand, a goal that, according to the Kickstarter page, was reached in just 16 minutes from the time the Kickstarter went live. The developer, Sean Young, shared on social media that after just 24 hours, Monsterpatch was over 500% funded. At the time of writing this article, the campaign is 800% funded ($120 thousand) and climbing.

Indie monster-grower Monsterpatch reaches 500% of its funding goal in 24 hours

Described as a cozy monster-collecting RPG, Monsterpatch takes inspiration from retro pixel graphics, using minimal designs and colors that still manage to burst with personality. As a long-time fan of classic Pokémon games, this speaks to me. Where Monsterpatch differentiates itself from games like Pokémon is in its farming and town-building mechanics.

Monsterpatch is set on a floating island continent full of areas to explore and creatures to discover. As the protagonist, you play as a budding wizard, using your spellbook and wand to capture monsters and battle opposing wizards. Adventure to various cities and take on challenges but know that you can always return to your town at any time to tend the farm or hang out with your monsters in the overworld. Apparently, NPCs will eventually move into your town too.

Much like Pokémon games, there will be two versions of Monsterpatch: Skyfarer and Aurora. But you won’t have to buy one or the other, just choose one when you start a new save file. Both versions of the game will feature unique antagonists with varying stories. Players will be able to trade MoNs from across save files and even battle against themselves.

The turn-based battles appear to be simple and fast-paced. Up to four MoNs can be on either side of the field, and it seems like different moves target different positions, making party orientation important. When starting the game, players can choose two from six starter options. Almost every MoN will have three stages of evolution, altering their appearance, and presumably increasing in strength. There are nine “types,” called Houses, that will impact “their strengths, weaknesses, abilities, and move pool.”

Players will be able to design their town any way they want: “You have complete control over elevation, water, dirt, paths, fences, tress, and much more.” Collect resources and unlock blueprints to craft houses, objects, and decorations. Recruit NPC townsfolk to help expand and manage the town, “you can even gift them MoNs for their own team, and have some friendly battles!”

Based on the Kickstarter rewards, Monsterpatch is aiming for a December 2025 release. Of course, that would be great, but video game development is never easy, especially for an independent developer. We will remain hopeful but understanding if the game needs a little more time. Currently, Monsterpatch is planning to launch on PC via Steam. The developer says in their FAQ page they “will notify backers if I get approved for any console launches.” Console fans will have to keep their fingers crossed.

Pokemon Scarlet

November 18, 2022

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• Overview

• oldschool / retro
• Pokemon (franchise)
• indie games
• Kickstarter