Why Graveyard Keeper is a Must-Try for Stardew Valley Fans

Graveyard Keeper might not be the first game that comes to mind when you think of cozy farming sims, but trust me, it’s definitely worth your attention, especially with the buzz around its sequel. For those who are fans of Stardew Valley and similar games, this quirky title has a unique twist that could hook you in!

Released back in 2018, Graveyard Keeper throws you right into a bizarre medieval purgatory after you meet an untimely end. Here, you’re tasked with managing a graveyard, figuring out how to navigate this strange world, and ultimately trying to reunite with your lost love. Farming is just part of the package; you’ll also be dealing with corpses, autopsies, and an unusual amount of blood — yes, you read that right!

So, what can you expect from this cemetery management game? Well, it’s a mix of farming, crafting, and a whole lot of quirky humor. You’ll plant crops and fish, much like in Stardew Valley, but with a twist. Your responsibilities include managing the graveyard, tending to a church, and interacting with a lively set of NPCs who come with their own sets of quests and demands. Be prepared for some serious multitasking!

Here’s a quick breakdown of what you can do:

• Farming: Plant seeds, grow your produce, and harvest — but don’t worry about watering them!
• Mining: Gather ore to craft items for quests or for yourself.
• Crafting: Build various crafting stations to create items and materials.
• Fishing: Enjoy a mini-game similar to Stardew Valley for catching fish.
• Combat: Battle enemies in dungeons while managing your energy levels.
• No Survival Mechanics: You’re already technically dead, so no hunger or thirst to manage!
• Character Customization: Craft armor and gear — from harvested body parts, no less!
• Friendship Dynamics: Build relationships through quests, but don’t expect deep emotional connections.

One of the best aspects of Graveyard Keeper is the relaxed pace. Unlike other farming games, there are no seasons pressuring you to finish tasks. You can take your time and complete quests at your own pace, which is a refreshing change. Plus, there’s no need to constantly water your crops!

However, selling your goods can be a bit of a hassle. NPCs have specific demands, and if you try to sell too much of one item, you’ll find their offers dropping. It’s a unique supply-and-demand system that keeps you on your toes.

Now, let’s talk crafting. The crafting system can get pretty complex, with a tech tree that requires you to unlock blueprints through various tasks. You’ll find yourself hopping from one crafting station to another, and it can be a bit overwhelming at times. A little note-taking on your phone might become your best friend here!

So, should you give Graveyard Keeper a shot? If you enjoy dark humor, you’ll find this game’s vibe right up your alley. The twisted humor, featuring a talking donkey and a sassy skull, adds a unique flavor. But if you’re looking for deep character relationships, you might want to manage your expectations — the interactions are more transactional than emotional.

For grind lovers, this game is a treasure trove of tasks that can easily distract you from your original goal. You’ll often find yourself getting sidetracked as you tackle multiple objectives at once. If you thrive on task completion and the satisfaction of ticking off your to-do list, you’re in for a real treat!

In a nutshell, if you’re a fan of farming sims and are looking for something a little different, Graveyard Keeper is definitely worth exploring!