I have to admit that I hesitated to buy this game when I first saw it, mostly due to the reviews I read here. It took it being on sale for me to finally commit to buying it and I am so glad I finally did. Most of the reviews complain about MINOR bugs or the fact that the player spent lots of time trying to get to the town or the fort but they are inaccessible or that it takes a lot of gameplay to gain experience. Frankly. GET OVER IT.
Firstly, there are many things that are inaccessible when you first start playing and, OF COURSE it takes time to gain experience. That's one of the most endearing things about this game. You start out knowing nothing but gain experience in woodworking, stone masonry, farming, running a tavern (buy the expansion!) and more!
This game is nuanced and irreverent, and addictive and just plain fun! The ultimate goal is to "get back to your true love" but, I don't want to ever leave this wonderful, quirky little world!
Buy this game, you will not be disappointed (and, don't hesitate to use the phenomenal online wiki too).