Is Fields of Mistria Worth Buying Now?

When *Fields of Mistria* debuted on Steam Early Access in 2024, it quickly garnered overwhelmingly positive reviews, cementing its place as a standout in the farm sim genre. Priced at $13.99, the question remains: is it worth the hype in its current state?

Is Fields of Mistria Worth It in Early Access?

*Fields of Mistria* not only received shining reviews from players and critics but was also featured in *The Escapist’s* best games of 2024 and won *Patch Magazine’s* 2024 Game of the Year award. This charming game excels in delivering compelling narratives through well-crafted dialogue and questlines. Whether it's romance, farming, fishing, mining, or crafting, *Fields of Mistria* offers a rich experience that keeps players engaged. With over 100 hours of casual playtime logged and still an endless to-do list, the game's depth and enjoyment make it well worth the investment, a sentiment widely shared by Steam reviewers.

Much like other farm sims, *Fields of Mistria* challenges you to cultivate a new life in a tight-knit community. However, it distinguishes itself with fully fleshed-out NPCs, even those not available for romance. Characters like Dell, with her detailed fall outfit featuring a stick poking out of her pocket, showcase the meticulous care put into the game's design. The NPCs have varied greetings and talking points, ensuring interactions feel fresh and engaging. The townies, with their seasonal outfits and unique designs, become easy to love as you spend more time in Mistria.

While comparisons to *Stardew Valley* are inevitable due to its pixel art style and core gameplay, *Fields of Mistria* sets itself apart by being more beginner-friendly and less stressful. From the start, the game guides you with tips and occasional freebies from townies, helping you get your farm up and running. It encourages players to connect with the community through an intuitive itinerary that introduces you to Mistria's residents and the basics of farming life.

In its Early Access phase, the gameplay is forgiving yet engrossing, drawing comparisons to *Animal Crossing* for its engaging challenges. Completing quests, restoring community spaces like the mill and the Inn, and figuring out the perfect gifts for your crush are just a few of the tasks that keep players busy. The game's vast content is already a testament to its value, but there's more on the horizon. Currently, *Fields of Mistria* offers a deep immersion into a small, storied community with 10 romance options, set to expand with future updates. These updates will increase the heart cap and events, introduce marriage, children, and more, enhancing the game's already rich 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.*