Stardew Valley Meets Valheim In 9/10 Steam Game You Can Play Totally Free

Combining the simulation aspects and artstyle of Stardew Valley with the survival skills needed to survive a Valheim playthrough, this brand-new cozy sandbox title is taking Steam by storm, and for very good reason.

Launched back in June, Skillwood is a "relaxing woodcutter simulator" where players will be tasked with chopping wood, mining stone, and trading with NPCs in order to grow their forest, unlock new tree species and gain access to new areas. Developed by sshulin, Skillwood offers the farming simulation of the likes of Stardew Valley but at an even more relaxed pace, and it is clear that fans love the indie title as it currently sits at a 'Very Positive' rating on Steam.

Now with the full game available after finally leaving early access, Skillwood, which was created by just one developer, is available to complete from beginning to end and in Version 1.0, players can expect Boris, the mining companion, brand-new starter areas, new upgrades, the "crit skill" ability, and even the ability to upgrade both your running and walking speed, which we all know is very important in any simulator games.

Despite the goal being to gather enough resources whilst keeping an eye on your stamina, Skillwood will see you rack up points in order to gradually upgrade your stamina, allowing you to tend to your forest for much longer. If that fails, you can hoard some berries which deliver stamina in turn. However, with some resources requiring bridges and ladders to reach, you will have to manage your collection strategically.

"I honestly didn't expect Skillwood to hook me this much," one review reads. "It's one of those games where you can sit down, start playing, and suddenly realize you've been peacefully farming resources for an hour."

Another reads: "Skillwood is a laid-back resource-gathering simulator that finds its appeal in turning repetitive work into a satisfying cycle of gradual improvement... The game combines elements of incremental progression, resource management, exploration, and light survival mechanics without becoming a demanding survival experience. Its central activities are intentionally simple: chop trees, mine rocks, collect resources, improve facilities, and gradually gain access to more productive areas. Rather than relying on combat or constant danger to create tension, it focuses on efficiency and the pleasure of watching modest beginnings develop into a much smoother operation."

Better yet, Skillwood is free and, according to its developer, it will always stay free and, so, there is no better time to support a solo dev than with this stunning woodcutter simulator, especially one that currently boasts plenty of positive reviews.