Stardew Valley
Stardew Valley released in 2016 by developer Chucklefish Games to impeccable reviews. It was praised by players and critics alike for its ability to revive a genre that games like Harvest Moon made popular.
The game may appear to just be a farming simulator, but one gameplay session reveals that it is so much more. With a great story, loveable characters, and ever-changing scenery, Stardew Valley will turn you from a city boy into full-on farmhand in no time.
The addicting nature of the game comes from maintaining your farm and growing crops before seasons end. This leaves players in a race to tidy up and upgrade their tools as quickly as they can before the next season hits.
There is also an interesting stamina mechanic that results in the player having to manage their time wisely each day.
Planting crops all day may lead to your player being exhausted before the sun is down, while socializing with the townsfolk or visiting the shops will preserve your stamina for later use.
Managing your energy meter and time is key to being successful in Stardew Valley, but it also emphasizes the “just one more” mentality that will keep you up all night.
Telling yourself, “I’ll just play one more day,” can quickly go from one day to ten as the game pulls you in with its satisfying loop of achieving goals and meeting deadlines for certain events.
In Stardew Valley, there is always something for you to do. Whether it’s upgrading your equipment, cleaning up the farm or finding gifts for the townspeople, the game showers the player with achievable goals that are satisfying to complete.
Stardew Valley is a fantastic game that can suck away hours of your time without ever feeling like it.
