Graveyard Keeper is a blend of fantasy and capitalism that looks like Stardew Cemetery

Joining the small trend of 'roleplaying game NPCs made into full games' we've seen in games like Tavern Tycoon, Punch Club studio Lazy Bear Games has announced its next project, Graveyard Keeper, which it proudly proclaims as "the most inaccurate medieval cemetery management sim of the year." As the head of a fledgling fantasy burial ground, you'll have to find ways to cut costs, keep the customers coming, do "whatever it takes to build a thriving business."   

And we're not just talking about keeping your payroll down. Hot dogs attract visitors, but wieners cost money—maybe there's some other "resource" lying around that could do the job? Or perhaps you're a big believer in the environment: Why waste all those... well, "resources," when they could be put to better use (sold) elsewhere? 

People have to make a living, right? 

As a proper fantasy management sim, you'll also be able to explore the surrounding countryside, including mysterious dungeons, collect resources (like, actual resources) and ingredients, and craft new items that may nor may not pose a danger to your neighbors. Hold witch-burning festivals. Scare the locals into going to church. Make money—whatever it takes.

Graveyard Keeper is currently slated for release in the summer. Before that, there will be an alpha test that you can sign up for at graveyardkeeper.com.

Andy Chalk

Andy has been gaming on PCs from the very beginning, starting as a youngster with text adventures and primitive action games on a cassette-based TRS80. From there he graduated to the glory days of Sierra Online adventures and Microprose sims, ran a local BBS, learned how to build PCs, and developed a longstanding love of RPGs, immersive sims, and shooters. He began writing videogame news in 2007 for The Escapist and somehow managed to avoid getting fired until 2014, when he joined the storied ranks of PC Gamer. He covers all aspects of the industry, from new game announcements and patch notes to legal disputes, Twitch beefs, esports, and Henry Cavill. Lots of Henry Cavill.