Honestly, in my view, Stardew Valley is more for a niche audience, especially those who appreciate old-school charm. I played it just to tick it off my gaming experience list, and because of its fascinating development story, which was covered by Jason Schreier and which you might not know.
Eric Barone lived off his girlfriend’s income while they struggled to make ends meet, renting a modest house with friends, all while his family doubted the project’s success. Yet, through four years of determination, he taught himself everything from coding to art and music, creating what became an indie sensation and a modern tribute to Harvest Moon. His dedication resulted in a game that has since captivated players around the world.
After Stardew Valley gained popularity, Eric Barone, the game's creator, had the opportunity to meet Yasuhiro Wada, the original creator of the Harvest Moon series. This meeting was significant, as Wada had been an inspiration for Barone during his development of Stardew Valley. When they met, Wada expressed admiration for Barone's work and how he had successfully revitalized the farming sim genre. This encounter was a touching moment for Barone, as it felt like a full-circle experience—his childhood inspiration acknowledging his hard work and success.
I like such kind of stories. Such cases are crucial for understanding gaming, the nuances of the industry, and the involvement of individual creators and their dedication. They highlight how personal sacrifices and passion for beloved games can drive innovation and inspire future generations of developers
As a mental result, Stardew Valley is the only game where you can leave your soul-crushing corporate job to find inner peace by... growing parsnips. It’s part farming, part small-town gossip simulator, where your toughest decision is whether to plant cauliflower or finally talk to the brooding guy at the saloon.
I feel my time hasn’t come yet to fall in love with this game, and I believe, that time will come one day.
For me and for now, it's more about the story of the game than the game itself.
izigame.me
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