Ubisoft is reportedly working on a new social simulation game under the codename "Alterra," which draws inspiration from Animal Crossing. According to a report by Insider Gaming, the project has been in development for over 1.5 years and emerged after the cancellation of a previous voxel-based game that had been in the works for four years.

About Alterra

Set on a mysterious island, Alterra is said to feature unique, interactable NPCs known as Matterlings. These creatures are inspired by both real and fictional animals, combining traits from species such as dragons, birds, and polar bears. The game introduces players to a world of social interaction and creativity, allowing them to explore, build, and engage in a vibrant, lore-rich universe.

Gameplay Features

• Voxel-Based Creation: Alterra includes building mechanics similar to Minecraft. Players gather materials from various biomes, such as snow and ice from cold regions, to construct customized structures.
• Exploration of Diverse Worlds: Players can travel to other worlds, each featuring unique biomes, enemies, Matterling species, and resources.
• Social Interaction: The game encourages collaboration with other players, fostering a community-centric experience.
• Multiplayer Options: Alterra supports interaction between players, such as trading, visiting islands, or working together on building projects.

A New Direction for Ubisoft

With its blend of Animal Crossing-style social mechanics and Minecraft's creative sandbox gameplay, Alterra could mark Ubisoft's foray into the growing genre of social and creative simulation games. If executed well, it may become a competitor in a market that values player-driven creativity and interaction.

The game remains unannounced officially, but the concept suggests an exciting addition to Ubisoft's portfolio, potentially appealing to fans of games focused on community and creativity.