Zelda Inspired RPG Drops Big Free Update, Massively Boosts Immersion

Now, it's probably fair to say that the Zelda games have inspired hundreds, or even thousands, of developers to make their own games over the years, and that legacy is available to see in a ton of different places.

One of those games is Mirthwood, a survival-lite RPG with farming simulation and sandbox elements, all presented in an art style that should immediately evoke some of your happiest Zelda memories.

As you play through what is a relatively relaxing game, you'll be managing your homestead, growing crops, exploring the world and trying to make a peaceful life for yourself.

The game features a relatively advanced social system, in which you can interact with NPCs to improve your relationship, which can in turn lead to new quests, dialogue options or secrets being uncovered.

It's not entirely peaceful either, with a class system and combat for those times when you do decide to take a foray into the more dangerous parts of the world.

Now, the developer has confirmed the release of a major free update, and it should bring both new and old players into the game in droves.

Bad Ridge Games

Foundations Update Brings Some Huge Changes to Mirthwood

In sharing the news regarding the update, developer Bad Ridge Games and V Publishing shared the following statement covering the scope of the update.

They said: "This expansive update builds on Mirthwood’s stylish and narrative-rich foundation, with new features including story events to experience, seasonal festivals to celebrate, adorable furry friends, and so much more to explore."

Specifically, the update has added some all new story, as well as town-wide scenarios like bandit raids and even horrendous rodent infestations.

Excitingly, it's now also possible to secure yourself an animal companion for your homestead that will help you defend it when nasty creatures come calling.

In sad news for the virtual community, NPCs can now die permanently, so you'll need to be very careful with your favourites if you want them to hang around for the long haul.

If they do kick the proverbial bucket, they will be memorialised in the town graveyard, so you can always visit them there if needs be.

The last big change is the addition of a lot more random encounters and events, adding some much needed variety and replayability to the game.

The Mirthwood Foundations Update is live on Steam right now, so you'll just need to be an owner of the base game if you want to try it out.