Fields of Mistria charmed its way into players' hearts upon its 2024 Steam Early Access debut, earning overwhelmingly positive reviews. A major update followed three months later, and another is slated for March 2025. For $13.99, you can experience this captivating farm sim on Steam. But is it worth the hype in its current state?
Is Fields of Mistria Worth It in Early Access?
Fields of Mistria didn't just receive glowing praise—it was one of The Escapist's top games of 2024 and won Patch Magazine's 2024 Game of the Year award. Its charm lies in its endearing characters, engaging dialogue, and compelling quests. The romance aspect is perfectly balanced, complementing the rich story and classic farming, fishing, mining, and crafting gameplay. Even after 100+ hours of casual play, my to-do list remains impressively long, making it a fantastic value for money—a sentiment shared by many Steam reviewers.
Like similar titles, Fields of Mistria casts you as a budding farmer building a new life within a close-knit community. However, it excels in its execution. Unlike the sometimes one-dimensional NPCs in games like Harvest Moon and Story of Seasons, Mistria's residents are richly developed, even those not involved in romance storylines. Each character boasts diverse greetings and conversation points, avoiding repetitive dialogue. Unique character designs and seasonal outfits further enhance their appeal, making it easy to become attached to the town's inhabitants. Dell, for example, with the charming detail of a stick peeking from her autumn outfit's pocket, perfectly exemplifies the game's attention to detail.
While comparisons to Stardew Valley are inevitable—both share a nostalgic pixel art style and core gameplay mechanics—Fields of Mistria distinguishes itself with its beginner-friendly approach. Helpful tips and occasional gifts from townsfolk ease you into the game, encouraging interaction with your neighbors. The intuitive itinerary guides you through early stages, making the learning curve gentle and stress-free. This, combined with its engaging gameplay and forgiving mechanics, has also earned comparisons to Animal Crossing. Many quests span multiple days, particularly those involving community restoration and upgrades. Uncovering your crush's favorite gifts and collecting seasonal fish and insects for the museum adds further depth and challenge. (Need a hand? We've got you covered!)
The sheer volume of content alone justifies the price, but there's more to come. Currently, Fields of Mistria provides an immersive experience within its small but captivating community. Ten romance options are currently available, with two more singles—including the dragon, Caldarus—on the horizon. Future updates will increase the friendship/romance level cap to ten hearts, introducing marriage, children, and even more content.
NOTE: Fields of Mistria is currently in Early Access, and content is subject to change. The above information is accurate as of Version 0.12.4 and will be updated as needed.
Fields of Mistria is available now in Early Access.
