Is Fields of Mistria Worth It Right Now?

Is Fields of Mistria Worth It in Early Access?

Fields of Mistria has garnered overwhelmingly positive reviews since its debut on Steam Early Access in 2024, securing a spot among The Escapist’s best games of the year and winning Patch Magazine’s 2024 Game of the Year award. The game's charm lies in its rich tapestry of well-developed characters, engaging dialogue, and intricate questlines, making it a standout in the farm simulation genre. With over 100 hours of casual playtime logged and a to-do list that feels endless, the game's depth and replayability make it well worth the $13.99 price tag, a sentiment echoed by countless Steam reviewers.

Like its peers in the genre, Fields of Mistria invites players to cultivate a new life on a farm within a vibrant community. However, it distinguishes itself with fully fleshed-out NPCs that go beyond the typical one-dimensional characters found in games like Harvest Moon and Story of Seasons. Each resident of Mistria has a variety of unique greetings and talking points, ensuring interactions feel fresh and engaging. The attention to detail in character designs and seasonal outfits further enriches the experience. For instance, the thoughtful addition of a stick in Dell's fall outfit exemplifies the care put into each character.

While Fields of Mistria inevitably draws comparisons to Stardew Valley due to its pixel art style and core gameplay, it sets itself apart with its beginner-friendly approach. The game eases players into the farming life with helpful tips and occasional gifts from townies, making the initial stages less daunting. An intuitive itinerary guides you as you explore your new farmstead and get to know the residents, encouraging social engagement from the start.

Related: Everything Coming in Fields of Mistria March 2025 Update

During Early Access, Fields of Mistria offers a forgiving yet challenging gameplay experience that keeps players engaged. Comparisons to Animal Crossing highlight its immersive and engrossing nature. Restoring and upgrading community spaces like the mill and the Inn takes time, adding to the game's sense of progression. Meanwhile, figuring out your crush’s favorite gifts or tracking down seasonal fish and insects for the museum provides additional layers of challenge and satisfaction.

The game's current content is already a fantastic value, but there's more on the horizon. Fields of Mistria excels at immersing players in its small yet vibrant community. With 10 romance options currently available and two more singles, including the dragon Caldarus, set to join the roster, the game promises even more depth. Future updates will increase the heart cap from six to ten, introducing marriage, children, and additional content that will further enrich the experience.

NOTE: Fields of Mistria is currently in Early Access and content is subject to change. The above info is accurate as of Version 0.12.4 and will be updated as necessary if anything changes.

Fields of Mistria is available to play now in Early Access.