Is Fields of Mistria Worth It Right Now?

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

Fields of Mistria launched in Steam Early Access in 2024 to widespread critical acclaim, receiving its first major update just three months later. Another update is planned for March 2025. Priced at $13.99 on Steam, is this farming simulator living up to the hype? Absolutely.

Beyond its glowing reviews, Fields of Mistria was a top pick in The Escapist's best games of 2024 and even earned Patch Magazine's 2024 Game of the Year award. The game boasts endearing characters, engaging dialogue, and compelling quests. The romance aspects are well-executed, and the core gameplay—farming, fishing, mining, and crafting—is equally satisfying. With over 100 hours of playtime under my belt, I'm still far from completing everything, making it a fantastic value for money—a sentiment shared by many Steam reviewers.

Fields of Mistria casts you as a new farmer building a life in a tight-knit community. Unlike the sometimes flat NPCs in games like Harvest Moon and Story of Seasons, Mistria's residents are richly developed, even those not involved in romance. Each character offers diverse greetings and conversation topics, avoiding repetitive interactions. Combined with detailed character designs and seasonal outfits (like Dell's adorable fall attire with a stick in her pocket!), it's easy to become attached to the townsfolk.

While comparisons to Stardew Valley are inevitable (due to the pixel art style and core gameplay), Fields of Mistria distinguishes itself with its beginner-friendly approach. Helpful tips and occasional gifts from villagers ease the initial learning curve. The game provides a clear path, encouraging players to build relationships with their neighbors. This makes the experience more relaxing and less stressful than some other farming sims. The forgiving yet engaging gameplay also draws comparisons to Animal Crossing. Many quests span multiple days, particularly those involving community restoration and upgrades, adding a satisfying level of challenge.

The sheer volume of content alone justifies the price, but more is on the horizon. Fields of Mistria currently immerses players in a small but captivating community. Ten romance options are available, with two more—including the dragon, Caldarus—on the way. Future updates will increase the relationship level cap to ten hearts, introducing marriage, children, and much more.

NOTE: Fields of Mistria is currently in Early Access, so 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.