Is Fields of Mistria Worth Playing Now?

*Fields of Mistria* burst onto the scene in 2024, earning overwhelmingly positive reviews during its Steam Early Access debut. With a major update already under its belt and another scheduled for March 2025, this farm sim is currently available for $13.99 on Steam. But is it worth the hype in its current state?

Is Fields of Mistria Worth It in Early Access?

Screenshot by The Escapist *Fields of Mistria* has garnered acclaim not just from players, but also from top gaming publications. It was named one of *The Escapist’s* best games of 2024 and took home *Patch Magazine’s* 2024 Game of the Year award. The game stands out with its charming characters, compelling dialogue, and well-crafted questlines. Romance is handled beautifully, and the game offers a rich experience in farming, fishing, mining, and crafting. With over 100 hours of playtime under my belt, I can confidently say the game is well worth the investment—a sentiment echoed by countless Steam reviewers.

Similar to other farm sims, *Fields of Mistria* invites you to take over a farm and build a new life within a close-knit community. What sets it apart is the depth of its characters. Unlike the often one-dimensional NPCs in games like Harvest Moon and Story of Seasons, the residents of Mistria are fully developed, with diverse greetings and unique talking points that rarely repeat. The attention to detail in character design, including seasonal outfits, is remarkable. For instance, Dell's fall outfit, complete with a stick poking out from her pocket, showcases the thoughtful design that makes the town's residents so lovable.

Screenshot by The Escapist While *Fields of Mistria* inevitably draws comparisons to *Stardew Valley* due to its nostalgic pixel art and gameplay, it distinguishes itself with a beginner-friendly approach and stress-free gameplay. The game guides you through its early stages with helpful tips and occasional freebies from townies, making it easier to get started on your farm and integrate into the community. The intuitive itinerary provided helps you learn the ropes and encourages you to build relationships with your neighbors.

In its Early Access phase, *Fields of Mistria* offers forgiving yet engaging gameplay, with enough challenges to keep you hooked. Its depth has even drawn comparisons to *Animal Crossing*. Completing quests can take days, especially when it comes to restoring and upgrading community spaces like the mill and the Inn. Discovering your crush's favorite gifts and collecting seasonal fish and insects for the museum adds layers of intrigue and satisfaction.

The game's extensive content alone justifies its price, but there's more on the horizon. In its current form, *Fields of Mistria* excels at immersing players in a small, storied community. With 10 romance options available now, two more singles, including the dragon Caldarus, are set to join the fray. Future updates will expand the heart cap from six to ten, introducing marriage, children, and more.

*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 necessary if anything changes.*

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