Welcome to the Wild West in Cattle Country—Open PC Beta Begins Soon!

Giddy up, gamers! If you’ve ever dreamed of herding cattle, hunting down outlaws, or just soaking up that sunny, open range vibe, Cattle Country is reining in the perfect opportunity for you next month. Playtonic Friends and Castle Pixel have announced an open PC beta for this quaint yet adventurous cowboy life-sim, and they want your feedback to help shape what could become the next great western game.

Launching just in time for your October gaming lineup, Cattle Country offers players a peek at life on the frontier, but with a twist. It’s not just about tending livestock or growing crops (though you can do that, too). This game combines the laidback charm of sim management with the excitement of Wild West adventure. Whether you’re raising your herd or tracking a band of pesky raiders through the desert, there’s always something to do. And from the looks of it, the world they’ve built feels like a love letter to fans of classic westerns, but with a sprinkle of cozy vibes that make it hard to resist.

The art style has a welcoming, almost nostalgic aesthetic that might remind long-time gamers of Stardew Valley or Harvest Moon, but it appears to have more grit and heart, leaning heavily into its cowboy theme. You’ve got dusty saloons, rolling pastures, and a huge open world that encourages exploration while requiring some quick wits. And don’t let that “cozy” tag fool you—there’s plenty of action if you’re up for it.

Now, why all the buzz around the beta? This isn’t just any early look. The devs are on a mission: they genuinely want the community to get involved. Castle Pixel is looking to gather as much feedback as possible to fine-tune everything from gameplay mechanics to balance adjustments. If you’ve got a sharp eye for game design or just want to lend your voice to the process, this beta’s your chance to be heard. It’s a call to arms for anyone who loves simulations, westerns, or just good ol’ storytelling in gaming.

You’ll be able to test out key features such as running your own ranch, trading with neighboring townsfolk, fending off rattlesnakes, and—oh yes—dueling in high-noon standoffs. It’s a world full of possibilities and a game that seems to merge relaxed gameplay with sudden bursts of adrenaline, depending on where you ride your horse next. Those mechanics are still being fine-tuned, so your input during the beta will be important. The early feedback will help shape everything from character behavior to how challenging the world feels when players start to expand their ranch.

But while we’re all waiting for the beta to drop, here are a few pro tips to help you hit the ground running. First, make sure to prioritize expanding your ranch’s resources early. Building out your facilities means a more profitable operation, which gives you access to better equipment faster. Second, pay attention to your relationships with the townsfolk. It’s not just about money; building friendships can unlock useful perks and even some hidden missions. And finally, keep your gun holstered—unless there’s a good reason to draw. The Wild West is full of danger, but being too trigger-happy might cost you more than a few precious bullets!

So, whether you’re a seasoned life-sim vet or just someone looking for a new frontier to settle into, mark your calendar for October and get ready to saddle up. As castle Pixel says, they “need your help” to bring this game to life—no matter your gaming skill level, they want to hear from you.

Ready to ride out? Check out more details and sign up for the beta here: Cattle Country Beta Sign-Up.

Time to dust off that cowboy hat and head into the open range, partner!