Fae Farm, an upcoming farm sim RPG, takes place in the enchanting world of Azoria. Players have the option to team up in online co-op or play solo. As the release date approaches, fans of the genre may be eager to learn more about the game's gameplay. Specifically, they may be interested in how Fae Farm incorporates magic into familiar activities like farming, fishing, and mining.
While Fae Farm is a new contender in the farming sim genre, it draws some comparisons to popular titles such as Stardew Valley and the Story of Seasons games. In a recent interview with Game Rant, Phoenix Labs Game Director Isaac Epp shed light on some of the game's standout features. He discussed the mechanics behind Fae Farm's magic and spells, as well as the quality-of-life improvements that enhance the cozy gaming experience to a whole new level.
How Magic And Spells Work In Fae Farm
Fae Farm offers various magical elements, including spells, potions, crafting food, and a coziness system, which enhances the overall gaming experience. During the demo, Epp demonstrated how Fae Farm's magic can optimize activities such as mining and farming through upgrades and spells. By infusing magic into tools as players progress, mining becomes more efficient, allowing for the simultaneous extraction of multiple rocks within a specified area.
Additionally, Epp explained that unlocking the staff early in the game is crucial for progress in Fae Farm. This unlocks a range of spells with multiple uses and benefits, albeit at the cost of mana. For example, Epp introduced the Water Bloop spell, which can water several crops at once, as well as the Vortex spell, which aids in crop harvesting, combat, and grass collection. Epp emphasized the versatility and usefulness of these spells in enhancing gameplay.
How Magic Adds Quality Of Life Improvements For ‘Next-Level’ Cozy Game UX
The Vortex spell, while designed for combat, also serves as a valuable tool. Acting as a potent AoE ability with a knockback effect, it proves particularly advantageous when confronted by a swarm of adversaries within a dungeon. Additionally, it can be utilized to conveniently gather objects such as grass and various items from the surroundings. In summary, the Vortex spell functions as a versatile utility spell with various practical applications.When it comes to what sets Fae Farm apart from popular cozy farming games like Stardew Valley, Epp highlighted the inclusion of quality-of-life enhancements, the ability to play with friends in co-op multiplayer, and the creation of a stunning and immersive world. Fae Farm manages to streamline menus and actions, making them more user-friendly and efficient, to the point where you can't help but wish it had always been this way. Epp further elaborated,
We have taken inventory for certain items that are stored in a shed. When working on the homestead, these items will be automatically retrieved from the shed, eliminating the need to constantly return and pack them in your backpack. There are many other features like this that contribute to an enhanced user experience in this cozy game.
The importance of player experience is evident in the world of Azoria, where interaction is key. Unlike other farming simulations, players are allowed to freely explore restricted areas, such as swimming in the water and using fairy wings to navigate the world through parkour. While games like Story of Seasons lack multiplayer options, Fae Farm stands out with its cooperative gameplay, focus on enhancing the player experience, and inclusion of quality-of-life improvements. This uniqueness may greatly shape its identity within the popular yet competitive genre.
Fae Farm launches September 8 for PC and Switch.