Dark Roast Cafè is an adorably satanic, cozy game where you employ quirky demons to help run your business

GamesLife SimDark Roast Cafè is an adorably satanic, cozy game where you employ quirky demons to help run your businessWhen you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.

When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.

(Image credit: outstar)

A demonic coffee shop

I am a sucker when it comes to cosy cafe games. I find there’s no better way to unwind than setting up a small nook and serving some loyal customers coffee and cute little snacks. Usually, I have a type: cute, pastel, and calm—thinkAn Average Day at the Cat Cafè. But this time, I’ve found one that breaks that mould, and it’s absolutely amazing.

Dark Roast Cafèmay be cosy, but it’s also satanic. In this short itch.io demo, you open shop with a loan from an unforgiving demon. Then, you have seven days to hire staff, decorate your cafe, and earn enough money to pay off your debt. It’s not massively complex, but to be fair, it was the developer’s first solo game, which was made for theLudum Dare55 game jam in just 72 hours.

This comfy game is pretty straightforward, but that doesn’t mean you can just sail through managing your restaurant. The first time I started it up, I didn’t quite understand the importance of hiring the right people (or, in this case, demons) for certain jobs. You’ll need a greeter, a cashier, a cleaner, and, importantly, a barista. There’s an option to summon three demons at a time, of which you can pick one to join your team; if you don’t like anyone, then you can just wait for it to refresh after a minute.

The second time I tried to assemble my master crew, I was sure to pick positive assets for the team with lightning-fast reactions, good customer service skills, and at least some cognitive functions, and luckily it paid off. My team worked wonders and reached the quota within five days, so I had a bit of extra cash to get the stylish blood-red tables and deck out my cafe a bit more.

So, if you’re looking to broaden your horizons and want to play a not-so-cuddly cosy cafe game, then I’d definitely recommend giving Dark Roast Cafè a try—it’s not extensive, but it’s still a load of fun and a great way to relax and pass time.

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