Is Fields of Mistria Worth Buying Now?

Is Fields of Mistria Worth It in Early Access?

Fields of Mistria has garnered overwhelmingly positive reviews since its debut on Steam Early Access in 2024, and it's easy to see why. Not only did it secure a spot among The Escapist's best games of 2024, but it also clinched Patch Magazine's 2024 Game of the Year award. The game's charm lies in its well-crafted characters, engaging dialogue, and compelling questlines, which together create a rich, immersive experience. Whether it's the romance options, farming, fishing, mining, or crafting, Fields of Mistria excels in delivering a comprehensive and enjoyable farm sim experience. With over 100 hours of casual playtime logged and still plenty to do, the game's value is undeniable, a sentiment echoed by many Steam reviewers.

Like other games in its genre, Fields of Mistria invites players to cultivate a new life on a farm within a tight-knit community. However, it stands out with its deeply developed NPCs, who are far from one-dimensional. Even non-romanceable characters have varied greetings and talking points, ensuring interactions feel fresh and engaging. The attention to detail in character designs and seasonal outfits adds to the game's charm. For instance, the character Dell's fall outfit, complete with a stick poking out of her pocket, showcases the thoughtful design that permeates the game.

While Fields of Mistria inevitably draws comparisons to Stardew Valley due to its pixel art style and core gameplay, it distinguishes itself with a more beginner-friendly approach. The game guides new players through its early stages with helpful tips and occasional freebies from townies, making the initial farm setup less daunting. An intuitive itinerary helps players learn the ropes and encourages them to engage with the community, fostering a stress-free and enjoyable experience.

Related: Everything Coming in Fields of Mistria March 2025 Update

In its Early Access phase, Fields of Mistria offers a forgiving yet engrossing gameplay experience, with enough challenge to keep players engaged. The game's depth has led to comparisons with Animal Crossing, particularly in its community restoration projects and the quest to discover seasonal fish and insects for the museum. The seemingly endless content available at this stage alone justifies the $13.99 price tag, but there's more on the horizon.

Currently, Fields of Mistria immerses players in a small yet storied community, with 10 romance options available. Two more singles, including the intriguing dragon Caldarus, are set to join the roster in future updates. These updates will also increase the heart cap from six to ten, introducing marriage, children, and additional content to further enrich the game.

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.