Animal Well: Design Works Book Announced by Lost in Cult — Deluxe and Standard Editions Detailed

Lost in Cult, an independent publisher celebrated for their creative retrospectives on video games, has officially unveiled 'Animal Well: Design Works,' an upcoming art and development book dedicated to the critically acclaimed indie title Animal Well.

Available for pre-order now, the book offers fans and collectors an in-depth look at the creative journey behind the celebrated Metroidvania, a breakout debut from solo developer Billy Basso.

Animal Well released on May 9, 2024, for Nintendo Switch and other platforms, quickly garnering praise across the gaming community for its inventive design and atmospheric presentation. Animal Well: Design Works is scheduled for release in Summer 2026 and is being developed through a close collaboration between Billy Basso, executive producer Dan Adelman, publisher Bigmode, and Lost in Cult.

This comprehensive volume promises exclusive content such as never-before-seen prototypes, behind-the-scenes insights into the game’s development, and extended conversations with the creative team.

Additionally, the book will feature a curated collection of artwork that encapsulates the atmospheric spirit and unique visual identity of Animal Well. To cater to collectors and devoted fans, Lost in Cult is offering both a Standard Edition and a Deluxe Edition of the book.

The Deluxe Edition, which is only available via pre-order until July 1 at 6pm BST, comes with several exclusive items.

Early birds who secure their Deluxe copy within the first 48 hours of the campaign will also receive a special bookplate autographed by Billy Basso.

In addition to the core content, the Deluxe Edition includes: - A hardcover volume with glow-in-the-dark details - A rainbow holographic slipcase - A premium presentation box - An 'infinite looping' cassette inspired by the game’s ambiance - Four glow-in-the-dark pin badges housed in a Famicom-style box - A 'Save Your Progress' rainbow foil bookmark - Three A4 art prints by Drew Wise, Austin James, and madebyabra Animal Well made a significant impact upon its launch, especially on Nintendo Switch, earning a perfect 10/10 score from outlets such as Nintendo Life.

The publication commended Animal Well for providing visually rich environments and intellectually stimulating puzzles, stating it offers 'potentially years’ worth of discoveries baked in.' The enthusiasm for both the game and this new book showcases the enduring legacy that independent titles can achieve within the modern gaming landscape. By collaborating directly with Basso, Adelman, and Bigmode, Lost in Cult’s Animal Well: Design Works stands as a definitive collector’s piece and an essential resource for those interested in game development, visual art, and the indie gaming community.

Pre-orders for both Standard and Deluxe Editions are now live through Lost in Cult’s official website, with additional details on contents and availability.

Metroidvania Animal Well Lost in Cult Billy Basso Dan Adelman Bigmode Nintendo Switch