A must-have for any fan of the farming life, Farming Simulator 25 brings the joys and challenges of modern agriculture right to your screen with surprising depth and new, exciting realism.
Farming Simulator 25 brings players closer to the farm life experience than ever before. Since the series began in 2008, GIANTS Software has been steadily refining its approach, creating a simulation that captures both the satisfying grind and unexpected challenges of real-world farming.
RELATED: You Can Now Build Your Dream Home in Final Fantasy XIV
With its new features – from cutting-edge machinery and a variety of crops to an unpredictable weather system – Farming Simulator 25 doesn’t just feel like a game; it’s an agricultural adventure. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer, this entry has plenty to offer and keeps the series’ reputation as the go-to for a truly immersive farm sim.
I tested it on the Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 and Baldur’s Gate 3. And while the game largely shines on this platform, it also revealed some of the limitations Farming Simulator 25 has when it comes to handheld play. The experience was engaging, relaxing, and challenging – a combination that, for any simulation enthusiast, makes this one of the most satisfying entries in the genre.
A Unique Farming Experience
Unlike other farming sims that tend to focus on a casual or whimsical experience, Farming Simulator 25 is steeped in realism. With more than 400 machines and tools from over 150 real-world brands, players can drive, plow, and harvest with an authenticity that few other games in the genre can match. Every detail – from the look of the crops to the mechanical accuracy of each vehicle – is crafted to put you in the boots of a modern-day farmer.
This release introduces a host of new elements, including the addition of crops like rice and beans and livestock options that expand to include water buffalo and goats. But what really sets Farming Simulator 25 apart from previous installments are the new natural disaster and dynamic weather systems. Tornadoes, floods, and droughts can disrupt your well-planned season, forcing you to adapt quickly or risk losing your harvest. It’s a realistic twist that adds just the right amount of unpredictability to keep things interesting.
New Features, New Challenges
With the new weather and disaster system, Farming Simulator 25 feels more alive than ever. On some days, you’ll wake up to calm, sunny skies, perfect for tending to your crops or feeding the livestock. Other days, you might have to deal with an incoming storm that could flood your fields or delay your harvest. These additions add a strategic layer to gameplay; it’s no longer just about planting and harvesting. Now, you’re making decisions that could mean the difference between a bumper crop and a season of loss. The thrill of trying to save your fields from an impending tornado or preparing for a drought makes the simulation feel authentic and immersive.
The game also feels surprisingly intuitive on a controller. Using an Xbox controller felt natural, with smooth, easy-to-master controls. Driving tractors, planting crops, and even managing complex machinery feels seamless, especially for those who may not be familiar with the intricacies of farming. However, playing on the ASUS ROG Ally exposed a few pain points for handheld s: the UI isn’t optimized for smaller screens. Important information about your crops, equipment status, and financials can be hard to read. You might find yourself squinting or struggling to navigate menus, which is unfortunate for those hoping to take this farming experience on the go.
Chill Vibes with Room for Improvement
Where Farming Simulator 25 really shines is in its ability to immerse you fully in the rhythm of farm life. This isn’t a fast-paced shoot ‘em up – it’s a peaceful, rewarding grind. Every successful harvest and well-tended animal feels like a small triumph, especially after handling the challenges of storms or equipment breakdowns. With its detailed graphics and realistic soundscapes, it’s easy to lose hours in the game, tending to your fields and planning your next harvest.
Despite its strengths, Farming Simulator 25 could use some polish. Performance on the ASUS ROG Ally, while generally solid, occasionally stuttered, and the tiny UI makes handheld play less than ideal. These are minor quibbles, though, when weighed against the game’s overwhelming positives. GIANTS Software has created a lush and immersive farming experience that respects the complexity and beauty of real agriculture.
If you’re a fan of the series or just someone looking for a tranquil escape, Farming Simulator 25 is an easy recommendation. It’s a near-perfect blend of relaxation and strategy, capturing the highs and lows of farming life with charm and fidelity. Just – this one might be best enjoyed on a big screen.