Farming simulators have become a staple of the video game industry, and it's no wonder these games are defined by their heartfelt stories, realistic characters, and sandbox creativity. In a fast-paced, tech-driven world, there's nothing quite like spending time in a sweet and charming simulation of our own making. We've listed the best farming games currently available, all ready to play on your PC.
1. Stardew Valley
This choice is a no-brainer, as Stardew Valley is generally considered the best farming game out there right now. Inspired by the Harvest Moon series (aka, the grandfather of all farming simulation games), Stardew Valley offers everything a player could ask for in a perfect simulated world: endless crafting possibilities, an optional combat system , cute magical beings, a town full of people who feel deliciously real… the list goes on.
2. My time at Portia
My Time At Portia credits Studio Ghibli with much of its inspiration, so you already know this game is going to be absolutely heartwarming. After taking over your father's neglected workshop, you'll steadily expand your farm by raising crops, animals, and completing commissions. Did we mention it takes place in a post-apocalyptic world? The combat in this game is spectacular, and when you tire of fighting or adventuring, there are plenty of social opportunities (including dates!) to be found within the Portia community.
3. Dawn of the world
World's Dawn offers all the best elements of a farming simulation game, but with the added bonus of an incredible storyline. The game is full of fun and unexpected surprises, and with a whopping total of 32 villagers, there's plenty of side quests and dialogue to keep you entertained as you build your new life in the whimsical Sugar Blossom Village.
4. Yonder: The Cloud Catcher Chronicles
This game has been called the love child of Stardew Valley and Breath of the Wild. If that resounding endorsement isn't enough to immediately convince you, take a look at the stunning graphics in Yonder: The Cloud Catcher Chronicles. The world is as alive as it is dynamic, constantly changing with the seasons. The ability to put quests on hold means you're free to explore at your own pace.
5. Graveyard Keeper
Maybe you enjoy the slower pace and open-ended creativity of farming games, but are looking for something a little less...cuddly. If so, look no further: Graveyard Keeper is packed with all the dark humor and ethical dilemmas that most other life simulation games refuse to touch. Gather gross resources and make questionable decisions with them, bury corpses, and get to know the townspeople, though you probably smell really bad.
6. Ooblets
At one end of the farming game spectrum is the dark, gritty atmosphere of Graveyard Keeper, and at the other is a game like Ooblets: colorful and sweet, like a cotton candy dream. Ooblets is an adorable little adventure filled with the cute creatures from the title. Upgrade your ooblets, customize your character and home, win dance parties, and collect all sorts of useful items while exploring this light-hearted world.
7. Nails
Created by developers who worked on the Fable series, Kynseed differs from other farming simulation games in that it continues even after your character dies. Everyone ages in this magical game, so you can watch your family grow and your children will eventually take your place. Not only is the world of Kynseed truly charming, but it's also full of characters who will remember what you do and say. You can even run a business, like a tavern or an apothecary!
Want to know which winter crops yield the highest profits or which are the best farms to pick in Stardew Valley? Check out our other Pro Gaming Guides articles for the latest info on all your favorite video games.
