Gaucho and the Grassland

Gaucho and the Grassland is an adventure-farming simulation game developed and published by Epopeia Games, a Brazilian studio. Officially released on July 16, 2025, the game is available on PC via Steam, with plans for future releases on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and Nintendo Switch. Set in the vast grasslands of southern Brazil, players assume the role of a gaucho—a traditional Latin cowboy—tasked with restoring their family's ranch and navigating a world rich in folklore and mysticism. The narrative unfolds as players explore diverse biomes, including the expansive pampas, serene highlands, and coastal regions, all while engaging with locals and mythical beings to bring harmony to the land.

The gameplay of Gaucho and the Grassland emphasizes exploration, animal husbandry, and community interaction. Players can customize their character, as well as their loyal companions—a horse named Alazão and a dog named Cusco. The game features mechanics such as lassoing cattle, tending to crops, fishing, and crafting, all set against a backdrop of vibrant, hand-painted environments. A notable aspect of the game is its incorporation of Brazilian folklore, with players encountering legendary creatures like the Boitatá and Negrinho do Pastoreio. These elements add depth to the narrative, blending traditional farming simulation with adventure and cultural storytelling.

The development of Gaucho and the Grassland drew inspiration from various sources, including the exploration and puzzle-solving aspects of The Legend of Zelda series. The game's emphasis on cultural representation and its setting in the southern Brazilian pampas offer players a unique experience that distinguishes it from other titles in the genre. The soundtrack, composed by Radioativa Game Sounds, complements the game's atmosphere with a blend of cinematic and regional music, featuring instruments like the accordion and flamenco guitar. The music enhances the emotional highs and quiet moments of rural life, serving as a tribute to the cultural heritage of the region.

Upon its release, Gaucho and the Grassland received positive feedback from players and critics alike. The game holds a "Very Positive" rating on Steam, with users praising its charming art style, engaging gameplay, and rich cultural representation. Despite some minor issues, such as quest navigation and occasional camera jitters, the game has been lauded for its potential and the developers' active engagement with the community. Epopeia Games has expressed a commitment to addressing these concerns through post-release updates, aiming to refine the experience and expand the game's reach to console platforms in the future.