GrowBud demo showcasing at Steam Next Fest
October 13, 2025 - Make Games Play today released a major update to the GrowBud demo during Steam Next Fest (October 13-20). GrowBud is a desktop sidebar cannabis farming game where players cultivate experimental strains whilst working on other tasks.
The demo features six experimental strain variants with multiple mastery levels. Players progress through challenges from the Grow and Bud clubs, fulfil dispensary orders, and experiment with genetic modifiers that alter gameplay. The game rewards productivity - plants grow faster when you're actively working in other applications.
"Young adults today face a lot of pressure to perform, whether in work or study," said Jared Brandjes, creative director at Make Games Play. "I've seen how having something calm running alongside can help with focus. That's what GrowBud is meant to satisfy.
"The demo first launched on September 29. Player feedback led to streamlined onboarding and progression systems for the Next Fest update. "We optimised based on what players told us," Brandjes explains. "Though it's worth noting - you need to let plants grow over time, which can be a different expectation for excited gamers during the biggest demo showcasing event on the platform.
" Development started in May with a Q4 release target. "I'm doing this on zero budget between my day job, raising a family, and working until the early hours," Brandjes says. "We participated in Joburg Games Fest last weekend - players were constantly at the demo station; a good sign".
The full game expands to 30+ authentic cannabis strains with five-level mastery systems leading to perfect six-star buds. Strategic genetic modifications unlock different playstyles, whilst minigames, grow house customisation, and collection systems provide depth for extended play. The demo is available now through Steam Next Fest and beyond.
Make Games Play is a South African indie studio led by game design lecturer Jared Brandjes, working with a team of fellow lecturers and former students. The studio previously recreated Shapez for mobile under French publisher Playdigious. GrowBud is their first original IP.
For more information:- Steam Page: https://store.steampowered.com/app/3157120/GrowBud/- Press Kit: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1rNMqg8kgiHewNkAlM-o_B2xEXe8LyGid- Website: https://makegamesplay.games
Media Contact:Jared Brandjes - Creative Director, Make Games Playmakegamesplay.jared@gmail.com; Connect: X @MakeGamesPlay | Discord: discord.gg/WQjnfcYs4Y