Dinkum

Dinkum launched in early access July 14, 2022, and StreamerHouse hit 345 viewers as this Aussie farming sim peaked at 9,000 concurrent players with 95% positive Steam reviews. Solo developer James Bendon spent eight years creating his Queensland childhood in pixel form—red soil, eucalyptus trees, and genuinely Australian vibes compared to the "fair dinkum" slang title. The game sold 350,000 copies in its first month, exceeding all expectations for a self-published indie in early access. Critics praised the "wholesome and good-natured" tone, calling the Australian setting "organic" and "genuine" rather than gimmicky, while Vice called the quality and quantity "astounding" for one person. Comparisons to Stardew Valley and Animal Crossing flooded reviews, but Dinkum's distinct Aussie twist—battling actual Australian wildlife while farming and building—set it apart. Bendon wanted to "recreate childhood magic and nostalgia," and StreamerHouse viewers in 2022 got to witness that eight-year passion project find its massive audience overnight. Sometimes one developer's childhood dream becomes thousands of players' new obsession.