Cozy farming sim debuts with rave reviews, echoing Stardew Valley's charm

Everafter Falls, a charming farming simulator on Steam, is captivating players with its Stardew Valley-esque charm and a unique sci-fi twist. Developed by SquareHusky and published by Akupara Games, it boasts a highly positive reception. Since Stardew Valley's 2016 success, the farming sim genre has flourished, with Everafter Falls distinguishing itself through a blend of traditional elements and innovative gameplay.

This title seamlessly merges classic farming activities – cultivating crops, fishing, and foraging – with engaging RPG elements such as combat and dungeon exploration. The protagonist awakens to discover their past life was a simulation, embarking on a journey of self-discovery, reconnecting with loved ones and their pet, while simultaneously building their farm. Everafter Falls masterfully balances the cozy familiarity of farming sims with unexpected narrative turns, creating a refreshing experience.

Beyond its intriguing storyline, Everafter Falls shines with its mechanics. Drones and magical creatures enhance gameplay, automating tasks like watering plants and aiding in combat. A teleporting cat streamlines movement, while a distinctive card-based leveling system adds depth. Further enriching the experience, the developers have pledged future updates, including quality-of-life improvements, a simplified fishing mini-game, and balance adjustments.

2024 is proving to be a strong year for farming simulators. Another highly anticipated release, Mirthwood (expected Q3 2024), blends Stardew Valley's appeal with fantasy elements and boasts over 100,000 Steam wishlists. While featuring core farming mechanics, Mirthwood emphasizes exploration and combat, promising a darker tone than many competitors.