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 in Steam Early Access in 2024, earning accolades such as The Escapist’s best games of 2024 and Patch Magazine’s 2024 Game of the Year award. This charming farm simulation game offers a delightful mix of engaging characters, well-crafted dialogue, and questlines that keep players hooked. With romance options that feel genuine and a plethora of activities like farming, fishing, mining, and crafting, the game delivers a comprehensive experience. I've personally invested over 100 hours and still have a long list of things to do, making it a fantastic value at just $13.99, as echoed by many Steam reviewers.

Much like other games in the genre, Fields of Mistria challenges you to cultivate a new life on a farm within a vibrant community. Yet, it excels in creating multidimensional NPCs, even those you can't romance. The characters of Mistria boast varied greetings and dialogue that rarely repeat, enhancing the immersion. Their detailed designs and seasonal outfits, such as Dell's thoughtful fall look with a stick poking out from her pocket, showcase the meticulous care poured into the game.

While Fields of Mistria may draw comparisons to Stardew Valley due to its nostalgic pixel art and gameplay mechanics, it distinguishes itself with a more beginner-friendly approach. The game gently guides newcomers through its early stages with helpful tips and occasional freebies from townies, making the initial farm setup much less stressful. An intuitive itinerary helps you learn the ropes and encourages you to build relationships with Mistria's residents from the start.

Related: Everything Coming in Fields of Mistria March 2025 Update

In its Early Access phase, Fields of Mistria strikes a balance between forgiving gameplay and engaging challenges, drawing comparisons to Animal Crossing. Quests often span multiple days, particularly those involving the restoration and upgrading of community spaces like the mill and the Inn. Discovering the favorite gifts of potential romantic interests and cataloging seasonal fish and insects for the museum add layers of depth and enjoyment.

The game's current content is more than worth the price, and with future updates on the horizon, there's even more to look forward to. Currently, Fields of Mistria offers a rich, immersive experience within a small yet storied community. With 10 romance options already available and two more singles, including the intriguing dragon Caldarus, set to join Mistria, the game is poised for further expansion. Upcoming updates will increase the heart cap from six to ten, introducing marriage, children, and additional content.

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.