"Stardew Valley builds on the legacy of the great farming sims that came before it, but it broke out as a mainstream success while franchises like Harvest Moon and Story of Seasons remained relatively niche. Following its smash hit status, plenty of other developers have put their own spin on farming and life sims, leading to a movement of games prioritizing chill over challenge."
"As modern life sims go, Stardew Valley doesn't break the mold, because it established it. You start with a run-down farm in a town far away from your old life, which you'll need to transform into your new home while becoming friends (and sometimes more) with your new neighbors. While you'll need to split your time between farm work, fishing, light combat, and socializing, your priorities are up to you."
Stardew Valley established the modern cozy farming-sim blueprint by combining farming, fishing, light combat, and socialization with player-driven priorities. The game sold over 40 million copies, won numerous awards, and remains an enduring indie title nearly a decade after release. The gameplay begins with a run-down farm to renovate while forming relationships with townspeople, sometimes romantically. The game's mainstream breakout on Steam in 2016 and a timely Nintendo Switch release helped its popularity. Stardew Valley inspired many developers to create chill-focused life sims and continues to influence the cozy game movement.
Read at Inverse
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