In recent years, farming simulation games like Stardew Valley and Animal Crossing have gained global popularity, giving rise to a new generation of “digital farmers”. These players cultivate virtual crops, raise digital animals, and build communities in online worlds. This trend, known as “cyber farming”, merges agricultural simulation with digital interaction, allowing users to experience the rhythms of rural life through their screens.

The appeal of cyber farming lies in its ability to fulfill fundamental human needs. A major attraction is the sense of control it provides. From sowing seeds to gathering harvests, each step offers visible results through careful effort. This predictable cycle stands in contrast to the pressures and uncertainties of modern urban living. “In the game, I decide what to plant, when to water, and when to harvest — it’s like managing my own peaceful world,” shared one university student.

Another significant feature is the immediate feedback. While real achievements often require long-term effort, virtual crops may grow in just hours, giving players a quick and satisfying sense of reward. Beyond that, the virtual environment is safe and forgiving. If crops fail or tasks are missed, players can simply try again. This low-risk setting reduces anxiety and encourages experimentation without real-life consequences.

The rise of cyber farming reflects deeper psychological needs among today’s youth. Many seek relief from the fast pace and competition of city life. As noted by researcher Xu Youjiangyu, these games serve as a form of “emotional self-regulation”. They allow young people to benefit from modern conveniences while mentally escaping to a more peaceful digital space. “It’s less about avoidance and more about balancing reality with a calming outlet,” Xu explained.

Moreover, cyber farming echoes a much older cultural tradition. The ancient ideal of returning to a simple rural life — expressed by poets like Tao Yuanming — finds new expression in these digital landscapes. For young people far removed from farming, these games offer a way to reconnect with nature metaphorically (隐喻地). “Tao Yuanming wrote about farming under the moon; I plant digital crops under my lamp. The sense of calm feels similar,” one player remarked. In this way, cyber farming bridges centuries-old desires with contemporary technology.

1. 1.What does cyber farming provide that modern urban life often lacks?

A    Predictable outcomes.

B    Social recognition.

C    Professional guidance.

D    Creative expression.

2. 2.What do both immediate feedback and a safe environment together offer players?

A    Risk-free exploration.

B    Real-life farming skills.

C    Competitive advantages.

D    Social connections.

3. 3.What can be inferred from Xu Youjiangyu’s comments about cyber farming?

A    It replaces real-world social interactions.

B    It serves as a mental escape valve.

C    It primarily teaches farming techniques.

D    It encourages urban relocation.

4. 4.What is the author’s primary purpose in mentioning Tao Yuanming?

A    To contrast ancient and modern lifestyles.

B    To promote traditional farming.

C    To criticize technological influence.

D    To highlight a cultural continuity.