The most British game of all time is officially being released

“In this game, your grandad is my real grandad, and he’s trying to lift your spirits after you’ve just purchased your first—admittedly, rather rubbish—car.” This is how indie developer Jack Somers, known as NoahsArkGames, sets the scene for Nothing Ever Happens Here in a recent Instagram update.

This quintessentially British slice-of-life simulation takes place in 2011 in the real-world town of Burntwood, Staffordshire. You are tasked with breathing new life into “The Bell End” (yes, really) pub after your grandfather loses his license to serve alcohol. According to the game’s official Steam page, your primary objective is to renovate the establishment, one room at a time.

Beyond the pub renovations, you’ll need to get your first car roadworthy to explore the surroundings with your friends. Navigating life as an 18-year-old in a small town requires plenty of social activity. In a conversation via Discord, Somers shared that he plans to introduce a friendship system reminiscent of Grand Theft Auto IV.

“You might head out for a fishing trip along the canal with your mates, Ben and Harry, or perhaps host a pool night at the pub with Bradley,” Somers explains. “I really like the ‘Cousin Roman’ dynamic—you’re out driving when your grandad suddenly calls you, demanding you rush back to the pub to break up a scuffle.”

Somers notes that while the game isn’t a direct autobiography, it draws heavily from his own experiences, including run-ins with authority and personal setbacks. Rather than literal re-enactments, he aims for a thematic resonance. “It’s about climbing from a low point to somewhere better,” he says.

“The narrative explores themes like isolation, the harsh realities of the working class, and 2011-era British subculture, but at its heart, it’s a story of redemption. Your grandad might seem cold and disappointed, but he ultimately wants the best for you.” By restoring the pub to its former glory, you’ll work toward earning his respect.

Nothing Ever Happens Here is currently slated for an early access release on Steam in 2027. You can get a head start by joining the community on the official Discord server, with a demo expected to arrive in time for the next Steam Next Fest.

Source: Polygon