Music lovers and cozy game fans alike will soon have a new indie title to add to their playlists. Wax Heads, a cozy-punk narrative simulation game about running a struggling record store, is officially set to launch on May 5, 2026 for PC and consoles.
Developed by Patattie Games and published by Curve Games, Wax Heads invites players into a heartfelt world where music, community, and human connection take center stage. The game will be available on Steam, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and Nintendo Switch, bringing its charming indie vibes to players across multiple platforms.
Before its full release, players had an early opportunity to experience the game during Steam Next Fest earlier this year, offering a first look at the cozy record shop adventure.
Run a Legendary Record Shop in Wax Heads
At the heart of Wax Heads is Repeater Records, a beloved record shop known for matching customers with the perfect vinyl. Players step into the shoes of the shop’s newest employee, tasked with keeping the iconic store alive in an era where physical music shops are slowly fading away.
Your role goes beyond simply selling records. Players must:
- Talk with a variety of unique customers
- Interpret conversational clues and music preferences
- Recommend the perfect vinyl album
- Balance work duties with downtime alongside coworkers
Every interaction matters, and every recommendation could help keep the shop’s legacy alive.
A Cozy-Punk Narrative About Music and Community
Wax Heads isn’t just about managing a record store—it’s about celebrating music discovery and the relationships built around it.
Creative Director Murray Somerwolff of Patattie Games described the game as a tribute to the joy of exploring music in physical spaces.
He explained that the team wanted to capture the magic of browsing through records, discovering new artists, and sharing emotional moments through music—experiences that defined the golden age of vinyl culture.
This narrative-driven approach makes Wax Heads both a relaxing simulation game and an emotional storytelling experience, highlighting the bonds that form between customers, coworkers, and music lovers.
Explore a Handcrafted World of Vinyl and Characters
Wax Heads blends puzzle-solving with visual storytelling in a vibrant comic-book-inspired world.
Inside Repeater Records, players will encounter a lively cast of characters, each with their own musical tastes and personalities. Understanding these quirks is key to recommending the perfect album.
The game’s world includes:
- Over 80 discoverable in-game records
- More than 60 hand-drawn characters
- 30+ original songs performed by the developers, their families, and close friends
This handcrafted approach gives the game an authentic indie spirit, reinforcing its themes of creativity and personal connection.
Cozy Gameplay With Puzzles, Mini-Games, and More
Beyond recommending records, Wax Heads features a variety of gameplay activities that keep the experience fresh and engaging.
Players can enjoy:
- Music-themed puzzle mechanics
- Fun mini-games
- Relaxing downtime with coworkers
- Adorable virtual pets
Combined with the game’s cozy atmosphere and playful humor, these elements create a relaxing yet engaging gameplay loop.
A Comic Book Art Style With Cozy-Punk Energy
Visually, Wax Heads stands out with its handcrafted comic book art style. Every customer, record sleeve, and shop detail is lovingly illustrated, creating a warm and inviting aesthetic.
The cozy-punk visual direction perfectly matches the game’s theme—blending rebellious music culture with a comforting indie vibe.
Players can expect:
- 50+ beautifully illustrated record designs
- Colorful hand-drawn characters
- A vibrant record shop environment filled with personality
Wax Heads Release Date and Platforms
The cozy record shop simulator Wax Heads officially launches on May 5, 2026.
The game will be available on:
- PC via Steam
- PlayStation 5
- Xbox Series X|S
- Nintendo Switch
With its heartfelt story, relaxing gameplay, and celebration of music culture, Wax Heads is shaping up to be one of 2026’s most charming indie simulation games.
