We Love It's Guide to…
Set out to discover and record plants and creatures for the Violet Archive.
Released 21 Jul 2025
Set out to discover and record plants and creatures for the Violet Archive. Grow crops, tame animals, and build the perfect farm! Forge friendships along the way as you begin your life as a researcher!
Developed by Petal Cat Games · Published by Petal Cat Games, Electronic Sheep Games









Research Story has about 327 positive and 17 negative player reviews out of a total 344. We'll add a detailed breakdown here when there are more reviews.

Sightings of exotic plants and creatures near the town of Shimmerbrook have attracted a wave of new settlers. The Violet Archive was set up to record the development in the region, and is looking for researchers to aid its cause!
A game about research and discoveryDiscover and record 90+ plants, creatures, and fish at various locations around Shimmerbrook, and contribute your findings to the Archive.
Forage for seeds, grow crops with different growth conditionsObserve wild plants and grow them as crops based on their requirements!
Tame and raise 32 unique creatures! 
Tame creatures as part of research! Observe wild creatures, learn their diet, and tame them with their favourite food!
Raise creatures, meet their needs, and unlock their perks! Each creature has a unique ability: Chickens find you seeds, Sproutkittens grow seeds into sprouts instantly!
Collect Shimmers! These rare coloured variants give double the Produce!





Fishing - some common fish, but also unique fish requiring research!Find Fish Parts and use different bait to hook various fish!

Dive deep into the Mines! Mine ores and gems in the Mines.
Certain plants and creatures can be found only in the Mines!
Explore the puzzle caves to uncover the mystery behind ShimmerbrookComplete puzzles to obtain Artifacts! Each puzzle you solve brings you one step closer to learning the truth behind the proliferation of flora and fauna in Shimmerbrook.

Cook, craft, build, and more!Cook meals to gain buffs!
Craft and automate with sprinklers, auto-feeders, and more!
Meet the townsfolk!Befriend townsfolk! From a druid whose family has lived for generations in the mountains, to a featherfolk whose first job is in this new town - many characters await in Shimmerbrook!
Schedule Hangout Events with them to learn more about their stories!
Romance any of the 10 romanceables and marry your favourite!



| Platforms | Windows |
|---|---|
| Achievements | 40 |
| Age ratings |
|
| Controller support | Xbox |
| Controller required | No |
| Demo | View demo on Steam |
| DLC / extras | 1 listed on Steam |
| Website | Official website |