So I don't write reviews typically. It's not that the games I happen to play aren't good, it's just that most aren't worth taking time out of my day for. This one is the exception. This seemingly simple game wraps you around its little finger and refuses to let you go. Because it's that good. I haven't really played the Harvest Moon series, so I can't compare the two. What I CAN say is that this game is wonderful. Yeah you're a farmer, but it's so much more. The characters feel alive, you care for them. You care that this is your Grandfather's farm you're running, and you want to make it the best darn place you can so that you can be a contributing member of the sleepy little town that lies in the beautiful Stardew Valley. Bored of farming? No problem, there's other stuff to be done around the town. Help out the villagers? You can do that. Go exploring the local caves and battle various little beasties? Sure. Go mining for that valuable ore to craft yourself a new beehive, or teleportation totem, or sprinkler? Yup. Want to go fishing? Sure, go right ahead. And don't forgot there are different fish at different times of day, that come out in certain types of weather, that only hang around during certain seasons. This simple little game is expansive. There' so much to do, and each new place you or person you talk to is infused with their own little touch of magic (metaphorically). This all from one guy who is still adding content. Big update coming out soon. New people to date, new farm layouts, possibly other new stuff. So if you enjoy a game that feels vibrant and alive and makes you smile a little each time you play, buy this game. I did. At full price (this from someone who ALWAYS gets games only when they're on sale). Because I wasn't willing to wait until after I'd had my first taste.
