Is Fields of Mistria Worth Buying Now?

Since its debut in Steam Early Access in 2024, *Fields of Mistria* has garnered overwhelmingly positive reviews and continues to build on its success with regular updates. The game's first major update arrived just three months after launch, and another is scheduled for March 2025. Currently available for $13.99 on Steam, the big question remains: is *Fields of Mistria* worth the hype in its current state?

Is Fields of Mistria Worth It in Early Access?

*Fields of Mistria* not only received glowing reviews from players and critics but also secured a spot on *The Escapist’s* list of the best games of 2024 and won *Patch Magazine’s* 2024 Game of the Year award. With its charming characters, well-crafted dialogue, and engaging questlines, the game excels in delivering a romantic narrative alongside classic farm simulation elements like farming, fishing, mining, and crafting. After logging over 100 hours of casual playtime, I can confidently say that the game offers more than enough content to justify its price, a view shared by many on Steam.

Similar to other games in its genre, *Fields of Mistria* challenges you to cultivate a new life and farm within a tight-knit community, but it does so with exceptional flair. Unlike the often one-dimensional NPCs found in games like Harvest Moon and Story of Seasons, the residents of Mistria are well-rounded and dynamic. Each character boasts a variety of greetings and conversation points that rarely repeat, complemented by detailed designs and seasonal outfits. Dell, for instance, stands out with a stick poking out from her fall outfit, showcasing the thoughtful character design that enhances the game's immersive experience.

While *Fields of Mistria* inevitably invites comparisons to *Stardew Valley* due to its pixel art style and core gameplay, it sets itself apart in crucial ways. The game is notably beginner-friendly and less stressful, guiding new players through the early stages with helpful tips and occasional freebies from the townsfolk. An intuitive itinerary helps you navigate your new farmstead and get to know the residents of Mistria, emphasizing community engagement from the start.

In its Early Access phase, *Fields of Mistria* offers a forgiving yet engrossing gameplay experience, with enough challenge to keep players engaged. This has led to comparisons with *Animal Crossing*. Quests often span multiple days, particularly those involving the restoration and upgrading of community spaces like the mill and the Inn. Additionally, figuring out the best gifts for potential romantic partners or tracking down seasonal fish and insects for the museum adds layers of depth to the gameplay.

The game's current content alone justifies its cost, but with more on the horizon, *Fields of Mistria* promises an even richer experience. Currently featuring 10 romance options, the upcoming update will introduce two more singles, including the dragon Caldarus. Future updates are set to increase the heart cap from six to ten, unlocking marriage, children, and additional heart events.

*NOTE: Fields of Mistria is currently in Early Access, and its content is subject to change. The information above 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.*