From the outside, it looks similar to other games in the genre, but once you've scratched the surface, it is so much more. Yes, you are the newly-arrived citizen of a quaint town. Yes, you have inherited a small farm from your deceased grandfather. Yes, you meet and get to build relationships with townspeople. Yes, there is a mine to collect ores and metals needed to upgrade your tools. Yes, it's a definite callback to what we all know and love about the genre. However, there is so much more to do. I would not have racked up hundreds of hours of play if there wasn't. Conceived and produced wholly by Eric "ConcernedApe" Barone, Stardew Valley takes a common formula, improves the heck out of it, and then adds even more. After finding points in the original Harvest Moon series that he didn't like so much, ConcernedApe took it upon himself to change the genre from the inside, and he definitely has left a lasting mark on the market. Considering the level of detail that is in this game, and that it is from a one-man show of a maker, Stardew Valley is impressive and quaint all in one package. And even when you think you've seen it all, the active and creative modding community makes it even better, adding fresh ideas and content for more immersive playthroughs. The main drawback, however, is that there are only a certain number of hours in the day, while there is so much you want and need to do to satisfy your curiosity. Also, the fishing mechanic is simplistic to the point of near obsolescence. If you're looking for a simple, easy to learn and enjoy game, or even a walk through nostalgic memories, here is your game.
