Staxel is an interesting game. On the surface, it takes the gameplay mechanics of Story of Seasons and mixes them with the visual style of Minecraft. Players will build their farm up block by block and it is a rather unique approach to the genre. Before thinking this is a complete merger of concepts, Staxel is a separate beast altogether.
The game starts out with the choice of modes to play, including Creative Mode, which serves as the game’s easy mode. This mode will let players get items at the store without costing any currency and is a nice addition for players who might be new to the genre. It gives a nice chance to explore the game before going for a challenge.
Character customization is simple but effective, but what follows is formulaic for farming sims. Players will meet someone who explains the farming and gives the initial tools to begin, which should be familiar to fans of the genre and a good intro for newcomers. From there, the world opens up to the village where the inhabitants will have tasks and chores for the player to do.
Staxel has a nice amount of challenges where new events will occur, such as portals showing up and leading to areas with new resources, and new locations for players to restore. These events are on a schedule and players can be notified when they begin. They are an interesting change of pace from the main game and add some diversity.
Visually, Staxel holds up decently, as the Minecraft-inspired look manages to have a distinct charm. The music is great for a farming simulation and there is a sense of calm doing what needs to be done. Events could have a bit better music but it is still acceptable for the most part.
Where Staxel falls short is that the game does not use its Minecraft-inspired elements enough. Yes, the farming simulation allows for a lot of creativity, but the game could do so much more. This doesn’t need to be on the level of Story of Seasons or Rune Factory, but the unique blend of two distinct gameplay styles would have allowed for a truly inventive game. Instead, it feels like Story of Seasons lite with a sprinkle of Minecraft thrown in.
The multiplayer is a saving throw for the game though, as it works perfectly and is some of the best for a farming simulation game. Several players working together locally or online to get farms done or areas restored definitely raise the game up a notch and using multiplayer during events is simply amazing. This is one game that is best played with others and not just alone.
In conclusion, Staxel has so much potential that it does not live up to in single-player, but the multiplayer feels like a more fleshed-out game. This is one that can be passed on for those playing alone, but for those with friends, this is a great way to check out a great genre. Thus it is recommended for multiplayer but not single player.
Disclaimer A review key was provided