If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to be at the top of the food chain – or at least on top of a tourist’s head – Goeland has got you covered. The indie game from Montreal-based developer Bryan Martinet has just dropped a free demo on Steam, and it’s already making waves with its offbeat charm and mischievous gameplay. You literally get to cause chaos as a seagull. And it’s as fun as it sounds.
In Goeland, you’re not just any bird. You’re a full-on troublemaker, swooping down on unsuspecting humans, stealing snacks, and generally making life difficult for everyone in your path. Think of it as a sandbox game in a world where you’re the annoying NPC—and the humans are your toys.
The game’s setting feels like the perfect environment for a seagull to mess with everything in sight. You’ve got quaint seaside towns, busy marketplaces, and crowded beaches, all bustling with people who, let’s be honest, are just begging to have their lunch stolen by a winged menace. The level of interaction between you, the bird, and the environment around you keeps the game feeling alive without getting too complex. All of these elements come together for gameplay that’s chaotic, lighthearted, and just plain fun.
Why You Should Try the Demo
First off, it’s a free demo. You’ve literally got nothing to lose here. But beyond that, Goeland has this wonderful, sandbox-style freedom that lets you decide how you want to stir the pot. Maybe you want to focus on completing objectives like knocking over trash cans or pelting tourists with well-aimed seagull droppings (yes, really). Or maybe you just want to play around, dive-bombing from the sky and outsmarting the humans. The game doesn’t force you into any particular playstyle, which makes each session feel unique. It’s entirely up to you how much anarchy you want to unleash.
And there’s something just so purely entertaining about the physical comedy inherent in controlling a bird. The animations are goofy in the best way, and the humans’ reactions will have you in stitches. Angry shouts, flailing arms, and frantic attempts to guard their food—it’s the kind of slapstick humor that’s hard not to enjoy.
Tips to Make the Most of Your Bird Brain
Since it’s a sandbox, you can approach objectives however you see fit. But if you’re looking to maximize your feathered fun, here’s a quick guide to getting started:
- Focus on Food: Humans love to eat in public, and their food is your ticket to success. Steal snacks and watch chaos unfold. Bonus points if you grab from kids—they seem to be the easiest targets!
- Use the Environment: Knock over trash cans and knock loose objects onto people. It’s not just for laughs; sometimes completing certain objectives depends on how well you can manipulate the area around you.
- Side Quests: Keep an eye out for hidden objectives. The more observant you are, the more opportunities you’ll find for mischief. There’s always something extra to discover.
- Timing Is Key: Humans will try to shoo you away if you get too close. Swoop in fast, grab what you can, and then fly out—you’ll avoid unwanted consequences like being whacked with a broom!
Looking Ahead
The free demo is just the beginning. If the buzz around Goeland is anything to go by, Bryan Martinet’s indie darling could be one of the breakout hits of the year. That’s assuming the full release builds on the hilarious chaos we’ve already seen in the demo—something we’re excited to see!
Whether you’re a fan of unconventional sims, have a soft spot for animals, or just want to experience something truly different, Goeland is definitely worth your time. So give the free demo a try and get ready to cause some feathery havoc.
Check out the free demo on Steam here: Goeland on Steam (steampowered.com)
