Starsand Island is offering a free bundle of new outfits exclusively for Steam users. The game already has a few DLCs, including a free Chinese-themed pack and a paid bundle of European furniture and clothing. This new free DLC, however, is one of the first Early Access releases for Starsand Island, though many players may be disappointed that it's limited to a single platform.
As one of the most anticipated cozy games of 2026, Starsand Island has gotten off to a strong start. According to SteamDB, the game has drawn over 10,000 concurrent players on Steam and seems to be gaining popularity among Xbox Game Pass Ultimate users as well. However, the launch hasn't been entirely smooth, with several controversies, particularly on Valve's storefront. Now, developer Seed Sparkle Lab appears to be addressing these issues by offering Steam users a free cosmetic DLC.
What to Expect From Starsand Island's Stardew Valley-Like Gameplay
Starsand Island is making its waves in the cozy sim genre by being a true Stardew-like, but it promises fresh twists to help it stand out.
Starsand Island Gives Free DLC to Steam Users
Announced on Twitter, Starsand Island will offer a bundle of four cosmetics to PC players on Steam as both a thank-you gift and compensation for early launch issues. The DLC includes the Yellow Swimsuit Outfit Set and the Pink Frog Pajama Outfit Set, each available for male and female characters. Currently, the free DLC is awaiting Valve's approval to go live on the store, but developer Seed Sparkle Lab says it should be processed within one to three days.
Rearrange the covers into the correct US release order.
Rearrange the covers into the correct US release order.
Part of the reason the developer is offering this bundle is to address some of Starsand Island's recent controversies. Many Steam users raised concerns over the game's restrictive EULA, which hinted at in-game microtransactions and limited mod support. Technical issues also prevented many players from enjoying the game at launch. On top of this, Seed Sparkle Lab faced accusations of using bots or fake reviews to inflate the game's average Steam score.
Seed Sparkle Lab has confirmed that Starsand Island will have no in-game purchases and will support mods. The studio has also denied any involvement in the alleged review-padding campaigns.
How to Claim the Free DLC in Starsand Island
- Log in to the Steam account that owns Starsand Island
- Go to the game's official Steam page
- Scroll down to the "Content for this Game" section
- Click the free bundle and download it
Claiming the upcoming free outfits works the same way as Starsand Island's Chinese New Year Furniture and Fashion DLC. Players first log into their Steam account with the game, then visit its store page and find the "Content for This Game" section. From there, they simply click the free bundle and download it.
The bundle will only be available to Steam owners, so PC players using Game Pass Ultimate to launch Starsand Islan d won't be able to claim it.
Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscribers may be disappointed that the free DLC is Steam-exclusive. The developer, however, reassures players that more gift content is on the way and has teased co-creation activities for all fans, though no dates have been announced.
Free DLC Isn't the Only Good News for Starsand Island Fans
In response to recent backlash, developer Seed Sparkle Lab confirmed that one of the biggest player criticisms has been addressed. Starsand Island's voice lines will be expanded, and more story-driven interactions will be added before the 1.0 release. "We have taken note of [the feedback] and will add more voice lines and narrative content in the full release to further enrich your gameplay experience," said the developer.
Although the game features well-known voice actors like Yuka Iguchi, who voiced Tsukihi Araragi in the Monogatari series, the current voice lines are very limited. Many players were disappointed by how text-heavy most interactions and cutscenes are, prompting the developer to take action ahead of the official launch.
OpenCritic Reviews
- Released
- February 11, 2026
- Developer(s)
- Seed Lab
- Publisher(s)
- Seed Lab
- Multiplayer
- Online Co-Op
WHERE TO PLAY
Escape the Urban Grind to Starsand Island - Your Island Paradise Awaits! Tired of the hustle and bustle? Return to the tranquil embrace of Starsand Island, a gem hailed as the "Star of the Deep Sea."
Here, immerse yourself in a serene pastoral lifestyle: slow-paced days spent bonding with adorable capybaras, cats, and dogs, savoring the thrill of bountiful fishing, exploring the mystical Moonlit Forest, or simply soaking in the island’s untouched beauty. Leave the mundane behind and rediscover life’s simple joys in this coastal utopia.
Live in Harmony with Nature
Cultivate tropical fruits and vegetables on your own farm, nurture bonds with charming animals, and design a unique countryside villa tailored to the island’s terrain. Decorate cascading terrace gardens and shape the island’s landscape—every corner invites your creativity and stewardship.
Freedom to Roam
Thrills to Claim Glide on a longboard along pristine coastlines, zip through lush forests on a retro scooter, or sail to uncover neighboring islands’ secrets. With a diverse range of vehicles, embrace the joy of speed—or cruise the iconic coastal highway to witness breathtaking vistas at your own pace.
Heartwarming Bonds with Islanders
In this close-knit community, every resident has a story to tell. Forge lasting friendships through daily interactions and special quests. As connections deepen, you might even find that special someone to share your island life with.
Uncover the Island’s Mysteries
Venture into fog-shrouded depths where ancient ruins, rare treasures, and hidden mineral veins await. Master combat skills, and face off against bizarre creatures—each battle promises unexpected surprises and rewards.
- Cross-Platform Play
- Yes
- Number of Players
- Single-player
- Steam Deck Compatibility
- Playable
- Early Access Release
- February 11, 2026
- Genre(s)
- Farming, Life Simulation, RPG, Casual
- Platform(s)
- PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, Nintendo Switch 2, Nintendo Switch, PC
