One of the most impressive things about Stardew Valley is that even in the 10 years since and countless copycats, there's still never been one that I'd play again. I keep going back to good old SV when it's been a bad month and I need something chill.
Hot take:
Stardew Valley is an isekai
Normal office worker transported into a whole new region where they live out a power fantasy, naturally able to outdo everyone around them, gain magical otherworldly powers, speak with a godlike being, etc
@JessTheUnstill I kinda see where you are going, but doesn't the main character have to die for it to count?