One of the most enchanting games like Stardew Valley I played in 2024 just got a big new update, placing the medieval life sim RPG back on my radar

GamesSimulationStardew ValleyOne of the most enchanting games like Stardew Valley I played in 2024 just got a big new update, placing the medieval life sim RPG back on my radarWhen you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.

GamesSimulationStardew ValleyOne of the most enchanting games like Stardew Valley I played in 2024 just got a big new update, placing the medieval life sim RPG back on my radarWhen you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.

When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.

(Image credit: Bad Ridge Games)

Mirthwood

Mirthwood, the stunningmedieval life sim RPGthat released as indie developer Bad Ridge Games' debut title just last month, is a whole lot bigger now thanks to a recent update - and it’s one fans of farming gems likeStardew Valleyand fantasy icons such asFableshouldn’t miss.

As if I wasn’t already obsessed with Mirthwood enough when it dropped in November, I’m ready to hop back into the sim thanks to the new Night of Falling Stars update. Just in time for the holiday season, the patch brings some Yuletide festivities to Mirthwood along with a mysterious masquerade with secrets to unravel, a map expansion to explore, fresh crops to grow, a plethora of recipes to cook up, and more.

Accompanying the masquerade is a collection of fancy new cosmetics to dress up with - and a Magic Mirror that allows players to change their appearance. Whether it’s hats or hairstyles you’re itching for, Mirthwood now has plenty to boast alongside its new helmet vanity slot option. For those looking to spruce up more than just themselves, Night of Falling Stars adds a good few decorative items to place about, too.

Mirthwood - Story Trailer - YouTubeWatch On

Mirthwood - Story Trailer - YouTube

Mirthwood - Story Trailer - YouTube

Mirthwood - Story Trailer - YouTube

As for the more farming sim-aligned features, beekeeping is now available in-game as well as long-awaited items like the fish creel. When not tending to bees and crops or fishing away, players can conjure up some tea or cook away with the new recipes - one of my own favorite money-making methods ingames like Stardew Valley. With the recent combat rework from Bad Ridge Games in mind, this all adds up to a near-perfect update in my opinion.

If you’re as excited as I am but haven’t yet had the chance to explore Mirthwood yourself, you can snag the game onSteamright now for 15% off in celebration of the update’s release. It’s not the end of the road for the sim after the Night of Falling Stars patch, either, as Bad Ridge Games has a lot more in store including DLC, marriage and family, pets, a massive morality system overhaul, more festive events, and even co-op support.

Here are some of the other most excitingnew gamesthis year and beyond to keep an eye on.

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The Sims creator’s first game in over 10 years is an AI life sim that uses your real memories: “The more I can make a game about you, the more you’ll like it”

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1

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5

Creature Commandos review: “James Gunn’s heartwarming, R-rated tale about super-monsters proves that the DCU is in good hands”

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