Is Fields of Mistria Worth It Right Now?

Fields of Mistria charmed its way into players' hearts upon its 2024 Steam Early Access debut, earning overwhelmingly positive reviews. Three months later, a major update enhanced the experience, and another is planned for March 2025. Currently priced at $13.99 on Steam, the question remains: is it worth the investment in its current state?

Is Fields of Mistria Worth It in Early Access?

Fields of Mistria didn't just receive glowing praise; it was among The Escapist's best games of 2024 and even snagged Patch Magazine's 2024 Game of the Year award. Its appeal lies in its charming characters, engaging dialogue, and compelling storylines. The romance aspects are expertly handled, perfectly complementing the core farming, fishing, mining, and crafting gameplay. With over 100 hours of playtime under my belt, and a still-lengthy to-do list, I can confidently say it's been worth every penny—a sentiment shared by many Steam reviewers.

Like similar farming simulators, Fields of Mistria challenges you to build a farm and integrate into 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. Each character boasts diverse greetings and conversation points, preventing repetitive interactions. Their unique designs and seasonal outfits further enhance their charm, making it easy to become invested in their lives. Dell, for example, with her charming fall outfit detail—a stick peeking from her pocket—perfectly illustrates the meticulous attention to detail.

While comparisons to Stardew Valley are inevitable—both share a nostalgic pixel art style and fundamental gameplay—Fields of Mistria sets itself apart. Its beginner-friendly approach provides helpful tips and occasional gifts from villagers, easing the initial learning curve. A clear, intuitive itinerary guides you through the early stages, encouraging you to connect with your neighbors. This less stressful, more welcoming introduction makes the game remarkably engaging.

The gameplay, even in Early Access, is forgiving yet captivating, offering a satisfying level of challenge. This has led to comparisons with Animal Crossing as well. Many quests require multiple days to complete, especially those involving restoring community spaces like the mill and the inn. Uncovering your crush's favorite gifts and collecting seasonal fish and insects for the museum also adds depth and longevity. (Need a helping 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 masterfully immerses players in a small, deeply detailed community. Ten romance options are already available, with two more singles—including Caldarus, the dragon—on the horizon. Future updates will increase the current six-heart cap to ten, adding marriage, children, and much more.

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.