I like gardening. It’s not something I do often these days, since the Texas heat doesn’t treat me well, but I do love it. Anytime I get to enjoy gardening in games, in the comfort of my air-conditioned home, it’s a perfect way to exercise two of my favorite hobbies. Now, developer MD Studio has released an intriguing new game.

The Abbess Garden is a narrative gardening game that involves real botany, but also blends narrative elements from France in 1643. For a limited time, it is also 20% off on Steam. Here is what the press release says about The Abbess’ Garden:

“The Abbess Garden, a cozy narrative gardening game set in 1643 France, is available today on Steam and the indie.io store. Blending real horticulture with historical storytelling, the game invites players to restore a long-forgotten garden, uncover a quiet spy intrigue, and experience a gentle romance as the seasons pass.

Set at the abbey of Port-Royal-des-Champs, a real historical site in the heart of France, The Abbess Garden follows Agnès, a young peasant entrusted with restoring the Abbess’ private garden. What begins as a simple act of care gradually reveals hidden objects, new areas to unlock, and a deeper narrative woven into the grounds.

At the core of the experience is a gardening system inspired by real botany. Plants have authentic needs based on soil type, water, and proximity to other species. There is no grid-based placement. Instead, the garden grows organically, shaped by observation and thoughtful adjustments. As seasons change, players can identify plants across their life stages and gather flowers, roots, leaves, and seeds at the right moment for botany, medicine, and quest progression.

Exploration rewards curiosity. Hidden items fill collections and trigger new dialogue, while the discovery of a book written by a deceased spy introduces a subtle historical intrigue. Together with members of the local community, Agnès works to interpret its meaning before it reaches the attention of European royalty. The story unfolds linearly, allowing players to progress whenever they feel ready, reinforcing the game’s calm and approachable tone.

Created by a women-led development team and featured in several female-oriented indie development showcases, The Abbess Garden emphasizes care, patience, and atmosphere over urgency.”

You can purchase The Abbess Garden now on Steam, as well as the indie.io store. I’m not familiar with Indie.io, but it is definitely an option. Regardless, I’m eager to check out The Abbess Garden. Supporting unique (and oddly cozy) experiences like this is important after all.

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