Is Fields of Mistria Worth It Right Now?

Fields of Mistria: A Charming Farm Sim Worth the Hype?

Released in Steam Early Access in 2024 to rave reviews, Fields of Mistria has quickly become a fan favorite. With a major update already released and another planned for March 2025, this $13.99 farm simulator is garnering significant attention. But is it worth the investment in its current early access state? The answer, overwhelmingly, is yes.

Screenshot of March at the Spring Festival in Fields of Mistria

Screenshot by The Escapist

Acclaimed by both players and critics (including The Escapist and Patch Magazine), Fields of Mistria shines with its captivating characters, engaging dialogue, and compelling storylines. The romance system is well-executed, and the core gameplay – farming, fishing, mining, and crafting – is satisfying and deeply engaging. Even after 100+ hours of playtime, there's still plenty to discover, making it exceptional value for money.

Unlike some similar titles (like Harvest Moon or Story of Seasons), Fields of Mistria boasts richly developed NPCs, even those not involved in romance. Each character offers diverse interactions, avoiding repetitive dialogue. The detailed character designs and seasonal outfits further enhance their charm. The attention to detail is remarkable; for example, the small stick in Dell's fall outfit is a testament to the care put into character creation.

Screenshot of Dell's fall outfit in Fields of Mistria

Screenshot by The Escapist

While comparisons to Stardew Valley are inevitable (due to the pixel art style and core gameplay mechanics), Fields of Mistria distinguishes itself with its beginner-friendly approach. Helpful tips and gifts from villagers ease the initial learning curve, making it a more relaxed and accessible experience. The game encourages player interaction with the community, fostering a strong sense of belonging.

The gameplay, while forgiving, is far from simplistic. The challenges are well-paced, keeping players engaged for extended periods. Completing quests, particularly those involving community restoration, often spans multiple days. The depth of content, including uncovering favorite gifts for potential romantic partners and collecting seasonal items for the museum, provides nearly endless replayability.

The sheer volume of content alone justifies the price, but future updates promise even more. Currently featuring 10 romance options, two more are planned, including the intriguing addition of Caldarus, the dragon. Future updates will also increase the maximum relationship level, introducing marriage, children, and additional features.

NOTE: As Fields of Mistria is in Early Access, content is subject to change. This information is accurate as of Version 0.12.4 and will be updated if necessary.

Fields of Mistria is currently available in Early Access.