Fans of Animal Crossing: New Horizons might be in for a surprise when they stumble upon Anime Life Sim, an upcoming PlayStation 5 game that looks and feels strikingly familiar. Developed by IndieGames3000, the game is slated for a February 2026 release and has already drawn attention for its remarkable similarity to Nintendo’s beloved life simulation game.
A Not-So-Subtle Resemblance
Much like Animal Crossing, Anime Life Sim offers players the chance to build their dream homes, befriend animal neighbors, and engage in various activities like fishing, bug catching, and crafting. The game’s promotional materials boast a vibrant, colorful world filled with quirky characters, many of which closely resemble those from New Horizons. From the grass textures to the character designs, the visual parallels are hard to miss.
Developer’s Controversial History
The developer, Maksym Vysochanskyy, operating under the moniker IndieGames3000, is no stranger to controversy. Known for creating games that bear a striking resemblance to established franchises, Vysochanskyy has previously launched a Monster Hunter clone, which was eventually pulled from the PlayStation Store. His portfolio includes other titles like Anime Girls Military Strike and City Bus Driving Simulator, which have also faced criticism for their likeness to popular games.
They’re not even trying to hide it being a ripoff
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Potential Legal Implications
The uncanny resemblance between Anime Life Sim and Animal Crossing raises questions about potential legal action from Nintendo, a company known for its aggressive defense of intellectual property. While game mechanics are not patentable, visual elements like character design and art style can be protected under copyright law, potentially putting Anime Life Sim in hot water.
As fans await the release, it’s unclear whether Anime Life Sim will make it to launch or face the same fate as previous titles from IndieGames3000. One thing is certain: the game’s striking similarity to Animal Crossing has already sparked significant discussion and debate within the gaming community.