Developer: Giants Software

Publisher: Giants Software

Platforms: PS5, Xbox Series S|X, PC (Reviewed)

Review Code Provided by Developer

The Farming Simulator franchise has been a cornerstone of the genre since its inaugural release in 2008, steadily cultivating a loyal fanbase with each successive installment. Over the years, the series has meticulously refined its formula, inching ever closer to unparalleled realism. Farming Simulator 25 adheres closely to its well-established roots, which is to be expected from a simulation series that thrives on authenticity. These enhancements keep the experience engaging and prevent the series from becoming stale, offering both long-time players and newcomers a reason to jump back into the fields.

This year, the game introduces dynamic weather elements like twisters and hail, which can significantly impact your crops and potentially undo hours of hard work. Currently, twisters are not fully interactive and don’t disrupt machinery or the player character, but incorporating such features would enhance the realism and elevate the immersive weather system even further.

This year’s installment also expands the agricultural variety with the addition of new crops like rice, green beans, peas, and spinach, bringing the total to an impressive 25 farmable options. However, the standout feature is the introduction of animal husbandry, allowing players to raise livestock such as cows, chickens, and more, adding a whole new layer of depth to the farming experience.

On the graphics side of things, This year also introduces a suite of visual enhancements, including improved ambient occlusion, which adds depth and realism to the environment. Tire tracks are now more detailed and prominently visible, alongside several other graphical upgrades designed to elevate the overall visual experience.

Farming Simulator isn’t a game that will appeal to everyone, and that’s perfectly understandable—especially when it’s competing for attention alongside major AAA titles releasing around the same time. It’s easy for this series to fly under the radar. However, for farming enthusiasts or those who occasionally enjoy a good simulation game, Farming Simulator 2025 delivers on all fronts. The game offers a deeply immersive experience, where you can easily lose yourself in the tranquil rhythm of farm life. From tending to crops and sculpting the landscape to exploring a wide array of machinery, the gameplay provides a satisfying blend of relaxation and productivity.

While there’s a bit of a learning curve, the robust tutorial system helps new players get up to speed, transforming novices into capable virtual farmers. Once you’ve grasped the basics of navigation and follow the seasonal planting guides, the gameplay unfolds in a straightforward, rewarding manner.

Personally, I find simulation games to be an excellent way to gain insight into professions I may not encounter in everyday life. Farming Simulator offers a fascinating glimpse into the dedication and perseverance of farmers—the men and women who work tirelessly to ensure we’re all fed. It’s an educational and enjoyable experience wrapped in a calm, methodical package.

For those returning from Farming Simulator 22, this year’s updates feel like a breath of fresh air. The visual enhancements are a welcome addition, but the core gameplay remains largely unchanged—and understandably so. After all, there’s only so much you can alter about the fundamental act of farming. However, with the introduction of new machinery, fresh crops, expanded animal husbandry, and various quality-of-life improvements, it feels less like you’ve left home and more like your familiar homestead has been significantly upgraded. Giants Software’s dedication to refining and expanding the experience with each installment is evident, showcasing their passion for the series and their community of like-minded enthusiasts.

One of the main drawbacks I noticed is that the game can feel overwhelming at first, particularly for newcomers to the Farming Simulator series. This initial complexity might discourage some players from fully diving in and exploring everything the game has to offer. Performance was another mixed bag for me—while generally serviceable, there were moments where frame rates dipped, especially during high-resolution play. However, this is par for the course with many modern releases, and I’m confident that future patches will smooth out these issues.

That said, I was disappointed with the driving physics for standard transportation vehicles. While I don’t expect hyper-realistic handling, the current system feels clunky and can make simple driving tasks a frustrating chore. Some refinement in this area would go a long way toward improving the overall experience.

Farming Simulator 25 doesn’t reinvent the wheel, but it certainly polishes it to a fine shine, offering a smoother and more refined experience. Whether you’re a newcomer eager to explore the rich world of farming or a seasoned player looking for a low-effort, laid-back game for those late nights, this is the ideal entry point. With the option to share the experience through multiplayer or enjoy the tranquility of solo play, Farming Simulator 25 delivers a relaxing and rewarding journey, no matter how you choose to tend your fields.