The Official Harvest Moon/Rune Factory Thread!

[Figcoinc]

I always enjoyed these games and I know it has a pretty good following. Discuss in here all you likes/dislikes about the games. Post items about the games, discuss past games and improvements you would like to see in future Harvest Moon and the newly created Rune Factory Series.

I'll put a very short FAQ on this first post.

1) What is Harvest Moon about?

A: It is about farming. Yes it sounds boring but actually that is only the start. Different version of the game changes things but you also dig in mines, try to get married, try to get rich, make friends with the townsfolk, collect items and much more.

2) What makes the game addictive.

A: Everyone has their reasons. Though collecting and seeing the story play out between your character's love interest seems to be the top.

3) Does the game have depth?

A: That is the strong point in the game. There is usually so much to collect, plan, accomplish on top of the normal farming aspect that the goal isn't just to farm but to see how much you can do at one time.

4) If I am interested in the game which one should I pick up?

A: People have their favorites but if you have a N64 handy try to get Harvest Moon 64. Friends of mineral town on the GBA is a good choice too.

5) How easy is it to pick up and play?

A: It is very easy. You just start messing around and soon enough your getting things done. Then you have more to do...and more...and more....

6) Can you play as a girl?

A: Yes, some versions let you.

7) Is Harvest Moon a new series, I never heard of it?

A: This is a oldie actually. To my knowledge it started in the SNES era.

8) Is this actually popular?

A: Very much so. So far a version of this game has appeared on the SNES, GBA, GBC, GC, GB, DS, PSP, Wii (coming soon), PS2, N64 and I am not sure but I think also in a limited cell phone game in Japan.

9) What is this Rune Factory game?

A: Well it is a Fantasy Harvest Moon. Imagine the old Dragon Quest/Final Fantasy games put into the Harvest Moon format.

10) Is this a kiddie game?

A: Well it is a mostly family friendly game but not kiddie. No blood, guns, zombies, ninjas or violence. Though it does give lots of relaxing entertainment, sense of accomplishment and a general easy going feeling when playing. I put it at the top of my games I play when I just want to chill out.

Well I hope everyone who plays or is interested in playing join in on this thread. :lovin:

[Figcoinc]

Here is the page that has the opening trailer and gamplay footage for Rune Factory coming on August 14 on the Nintendo DS.

Rune Factory Gameplay and Trailer. (http://www.natsume.com/games/RuneFactory/index.html#)

[Luciano Leone]

Sim Soviet Russia.

Naw j/p. I really dig the DS version as well as the N64 version. For some reason, never cared for the other versions. Maybe cause the N64 version is a hella pastime for me. I remember I played that shit non-stop back in the back in the day.

[EvilSamurai]

I have the SNES version. Never really played it for more than 5 minutes at a time.

[GC!?]

I have the SNES version. Never really played it for more than 5 minutes at a time.

I'll buy your copy.

Seriously, I'm looking to buy one right now. I love Harvest Moon, especially the SNES version.


As for this thread...I've played Harvest Moon (SNES) ever since the game came out in '97 (the first one), renting it frequently, but I never actually went out and bought it.

I've played it a couple years back, and I've become so good at the games that I can BARELY be capable of getting ALL my crops out on time even WITH the horse. I got a wife in like..2 months (or whenever the Blue Feather first shows up), I've almost got an entire barn full of cows and chickens, and I was way past millionaire status. However, the only wife I've ever really got in all my playing was Eva, the one bar chick. There's still lots to do for me, I think.

To me, the first Harvest Moon is the best one. Harvest Moon DS just doesn't do it for me..and although Friends of Mineral Town is relatively decent, I can't stand certain aspects about it. Like when you COMPLETELY run out of stamina, I think you lose a few days. Planting crops wasn't the same to me, although I do like the diversity. Oh, and that mining area in HM DS? Fuck it, it's just tedious as all hell. I liked it at first, but it just went way too far.

So yeah, the games are addicting as hell. Only problem I ever have with starting a new Harvest Moon is that I just GOTTA clear the farm, a task which always tests my patience (and a task I feel is near impossible in later games like FOMT).

[Sixshot]

So the Harvest Moon games are actually good eh ?? Might have to check 'em out at some point.

[MagnetiX]

Y'know, I actually do love Harvest Moon.
The first time I played it was on the N64. I remember it was summer vacation and I went over my friend's house and he's playing it, but he's like "Ah, this is boring..."
I decided to borrow it...and lol, I didn't let that shit go for a long, looong time. I used to even camp out infront of our TV before I got one in my room (this was years ago...) just playing Harvest Moon till the sun came up.

lol, I remember winning those mini-games and getting a wife...LOL.
This was like, back before I had an internet connection at my house, so when I finally did check some gamesites for Harvest Moon FAQs, I was surprised there was so much to learn about it.
Seriously, Harvest Moon is the shit. It seems boring just because you farm and repeat things, but once you get into it, that shit is addictive.

[Hyperhal]

Harvest Moon is probably my favorite series so far. PLayed the SNES version back when I was in the third grade(roms olo) and was hooked from then on.

I've really gotten good enough to feel proud of what I can accomplish in an HM game, money flows easy and the game never really has a frustrating moment.

[Figcoinc]

Y'know, SNIP.

Yeah! I am not sure why I got into this game really. I read about Harvest Moon 64 in a Magazine and bought it at a Best Buy. Played it.....boring. Played it more....it's ok. After a week it was pure crack.

So the Harvest Moon games are actually good eh ?? Might have to check 'em out at some point.

Yea, they are fun. Just give it a fair chance and keep a open mind. Just remember the just chill with it and stuff will come together.

SNIP

Yea I actually traded in my Harvest Moon DS. I just couldn't get into it. I have high hopes for Rune Factory though and Harvest Moon DS 2.

Harvest Moon is probably my favorite series so far. PLayed the SNES version back when I was in the third grade(roms olo) and was hooked from then on.

I've really gotten good enough to feel proud of what I can accomplish in an HM game, money flows easy and the game never really has a frustrating moment.

Seems like everyone played and liked the SNES version. I need to give it a try. I just never really played that one. I just purchased Merry Melodies and I heard it is really good. :lovin:

I need to find a guide for it though.....

[Figcoinc]

Here is a video for Harvest Moon for the Wii.

I hope it is pretty good.

Harvest Moon Wii (http://youtube.com/watch?v=gF_DNA5X1wU)

Also, what are you guys opinion on Magical Melody. I just started it up (like for 2 minutes). How do you think it ranks with the other HM series?

Anyone excited about the Rune Factory Game coming out?

[Figcoinc]

What do people think about the spin offs HM is taking.

PSP is getting Innocent Life: A futuristic Harvest Moon

Tomorrow the DS will get the Fantasy HM good Rune Factory.

Think Natsume is abusing the brand name (kind of like Capcom tends to do with their big titles) or is it a good thing to expand and try new things with this game?

[Hyperhal]

I think that Natsume needs to take the time out to sit down and discuss with themselves on what there next "real" game is going to be. Right now they're just throwing out games left and right that aren't really that memorable when compared to the other great games. When Natsume makes a brand spanking new HM game that does what HM64 did for HMSNES, then I'll be happy with them once again.

Magical Melody is great from what I've heard, but I've never had the opportunity to pick it up. When I get my flash card for my DS back, best believe I'm going to be playing the ones on the DS.

[Figcoinc]

I think that Natsume needs to take the time out to sit down and discuss with themselves on what there next "real" game is going to be. Right now they're just throwing out games left and right that aren't really that memorable when compared to the other great games. When Natsume makes a brand spanking new HM game that does what HM64 did for HMSNES, then I'll be happy with them once again.

Magical Melody is great from what I've heard, but I've never had the opportunity to pick it up. When I get my flash card for my DS back, best believe I'm going to be playing the ones on the DS.

I do agree. They know that the people who play HM eat up their games and also their games are edging a tiny past niche audience at this point. Actually I would assume (though I never see the numbers) that HM is one of the better selling third party series that nintendo (since most of their games came out for it) has.

I honestly think what Natsume needs is to seriously sit down and see what made HM64 a success. The art style was very good. Also they need to pick a solid design look. I though the AWL design was a nice step up from the N64 design. The MM is a bit of the Animal Crossing design. I think Natsume needs to be inventive on this and not copy another.

Also I think the mechanic of HM needs to be changed a bit. They got it right...again in HM64. The controls were pretty tight. They seem to have gotten loser over time.

I think HM needs a graphical face lift. Not super duper type stuff but a good one. Especially if they want to get new people in it. Some people I bet look into this game but it always looks bad. If they spruced up the look a bit they might be more people playing.

I think right now Natsume is putting out fun but uninspired games. They are revealing that HM has gotten success in both coast and I don't think they know what to do with it. Instead of take the quality approach and HM better, they are taking the machine gun approach and and seeing what sticks. A perfect example of this is the Innocent Life and HM Boy/Girl on the PSP. Seems like they said....well if they don't like IL we have HM B/G to fall back on. :annoy:

[Pablo_the_Mex]

I really enjoyed the psx version of the game(s). I have always wanted to go back and play more, but that game is addicting and would take up all of my time. Are the ps2 versions any good?

[Sacr3D]

After I finished the snes version I didn't care for the rest, but thats just me.

Edit: This new one looks very good though !

[Figcoinc]

After I finished the snes version I didn't care for the rest, but thats just me.

Edit: This new one looks very good though !

Which one? The Wii version or the DS versions?

[Figcoinc]

Bump for the release of Rune Factory today!

I plan on picking up the guide too. Might as well....

Anyone else picking it up?

[Sacr3D]

Which one? The Wii version or the DS versions?

The DS one.

[Hyperhal]

I really enjoyed the psx version of the game(s). I have always wanted to go back and play more, but that game is addicting and would take up all of my time. Are the ps2 versions any good?

To be honest, I actually liked it for the first year, but after that, you've basically experienced everything the game has to offer. It's not addicting at all, its even a bit boring. The repetition really shows in the version, so you'd be better off getting the GBA version or waiting on a better one.

[Figcoinc]

I only had the PSX version for about a month. I had the guide as well for a while before I sold it one Ebay. The game was fun then my PSX broke. There was a good 6-month time period of no gaming. So I sold off all my games. It was fun to have.


In other news.....I picked up my copy of Rune Factory!

It says it has wireless connection to trade games and communicate. So I hope that means it is online the same way Pokemon and Animal crossing DS is.

[Figcoinc]

Ok I just picked up my copy of Rune Factory: A Fantasy Harvest Moon.

I just turned it on, here is my immediate impressions.

1) It actually has voice in some parts which is a nice change of pace.
2) It has DS WiFi which is cool. My friend code is in my sig. You can trade items/crops.
3) The game's graphics are pretty good and fit the game quite nicely.
4) The story isn't going to keep you. Kid with no past...blah blah normal RPG stuff.
5) I only fought one monster so far and it is ok. On real-time screen action but nothing fancy.
6) The town is laid out how the Valkyrie Profile towns are like. He runs from side to side in them.
7) Whomever thought it was a good idea to make the run button the R1 button needs to be shot.
8) So far I am impressed.

I'll give a more detailed impression as time goes on. Oh you can share screenshots via online too. Also edit them using the stylus if you want. Nice little feature. You can also with a DS to USB cord upload those screens to the PC to show everyone.

[Figcoinc]

A little bump if anyone wants to discuss the games. :smile:

[Sacr3D]

Games like these make me which I had a DS.

[Figcoinc]

Games like these make me which I had a DS.

Save those dollars man! Actually check those Mom & Pop stores. I was able to snag mine for a incredible $70 new....ish. Some crackhead came in their store and they offered him 65 for it...I said 70....I tried it out...it had everything...it was brand new actually. So score for me. :lovin:

[GC!?]

I bought Harvest Moon (SNES) and got it on Wednesday. I'm currently on my 2nd year Spring, married with Nina (apparently she's the hardest one to get since shes expensive), 12 cows, 10 chickens, 20k gold and on my way to being a millionaire. The game never gets old for me...only thing that annoys me is that the game slows down when you have 10+ cows in your barn. It makes the already lengthy process of brushing, talking to, feeding and milking cows even longer.

I've also been playing Rune Factory too, and I gotta say it's definitely worth buying. I've been pretty harsh on the newer Harvest Moon games but this one proves that Natsume still has it. I'm not that far into the game...only on my 10th day or so, but there's so much to do and none of it ever gets boring. No, I don't have a FC yet, I didn't bother talking to that one shell.

[Figcoinc]

SNIP

Funny I never played the SNES version. I need to play it one day. I wish I could give you advice on it. haha

Yea, Rune Factory is fun. I haven't gotten far at all though. Never made it past day 2. I let someone borrow my DS for a few days. Now that I have it back I'll play it. I think I might go after the nerdy girl for my wife. I think it is the Mayor's daughter. Those girls always remind me of my long time girlfriend. :rofl:

For all those who were wondering....it is getting pretty decent reviews.

IGN REVIEWED IT HERE (http://ds.ign.com/articles/813/813633p1.html)

Here is the closing comments to sum it up! It got a 8.4 by them!

For Harvest Moon fans, Rune Factory is exactly what you’ve been waiting for. The game balances a classic farming system (with some changes for the better) along with a full dungeon-crawling aspect, monster collection, and all the added goodies you’d expect from the franchise. The game has a few minor faults to it though, as there are some graphical bugs that pop up every once in a while, the stamina system is still pretty unforgiving considering how fast you can use it up, and the game pretty much just drops you into the action and expects you to figure it out, but in the end it’s definitely one of the best Harvest Moon games we’ve played. The art style is amazing, the modeled characters look decent (though we still would have preferred hand-drawn to fit the world more), the music and VO is a definite step above last year’s Harvest Moon “effort,” and the game is simply fast and fun to play.

Things like Wi-Fi and wireless support, as well as the screenshot editor and added non-farm aspects of the game make for a more rounded experience overall, but the game still has that niche, “Harvest Moon Club” mentality where you’re either part of the fan-base or you aren’t, and we don’t really see the game capturing a ton of new users in its design change. It’s still a farm RPG first, dungeon crawler and adventure game second. For long time fans of the franchise (or the adventurous new wave of DS players) that are looking for a true Harvest Moon experience over ten years after our first taste Rune Factory is sure to win you over. Simply put, this is the Harvest Moon experience you’ve been waiting for.

[{PFH}-Lake]

They are fun games if you like games like the Sims, cept your a farmer. They should make a harvest moon online for PS3 or nintendo Wii. The snes rom of harvest moon shouldnt be that hard to find.

[Hyperhal]

I thought they were already making a HM Online, at least I remember reading an article on it.

Jesus I need to get Rune Factory now, my wallet isn't going to be very happy. :sad:

[Figcoinc]

I thought they were already making a HM Online, at least I remember reading an article on it.

Jesus I need to get Rune Factory now, my wallet isn't going to be very happy. :sad:

I heard that they were thinking about it. Though I am not sure how that game would work. Plus natsume isn't the biggest company out there. So not sure they have the funds to pursue a project like that. I would like to see it though.

I feel you on the Wallet thing. Madden 08, Halo 3, Bioshock, Rune factory, Zelda: Phantom hourglass, Assasins Creed, Phoenix Wright 3, Stranglehold, Blue Dragon, Eternal Sonata and Call of Duty 4.

My wallet hates me...... :rofl:

[Figcoinc]

Just a little review scores update. Went to Gamerankings to see how this game is getting viewed by the press.

Well IGN gave it a 8.4.
Gamebrink gave it a 9.1
Nintendo Power gave it a 7.0 (WTF?)

So basically if anyone was interested in a HM game before but wanted but never got into it, this may be the game to start with. Even though it is not a true HM game it seems to do what it does and more.

I still need some quality time with my copy before I'll write a little review of the game for you guys to dissect. haha

[MechZZ]

Nintendo Power is ALWAYS harsh on it's games.

Except for Starfox: Assault Command. They gave that a high score for who knows what reason

[Figcoinc]

Found a website that might help some in Rune Factory.

http://www.fogu.com/hm/rune_factory/basics/index.php

[Figcoinc]

Nintendo Power is ALWAYS harsh on it's games.

Except for Starfox: Assault Command. They gave that a high score for who knows what reason

I'll answer that. It was a first party game. haha

Though Nintendo Power is always harsh. Oh well, at least the other review places are giving it good reviews. Hopefully sales are decent too and they'll continue with the series.

[Figcoinc]

Just a little bump for discussion.

I just finished Bioshock and now going to hit Rune Factory full force soon. If anyone has gotten at it earlier, if you can share some tips it'll be great

[GC!?]

Oh yes, I'm bumping this ancient thread.

For the DS:

Harvest Moon: Island of Happiness [8/26/08] - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harvest_Moon:_Island_of_Happiness
Rune Factory 2 [9/30/08] - http://kotaku.com/5019126/harvest-rune-factory-2-this-fall

Wii:

Harvest Moon: Tree of Tranquility [8/26/08] - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harvest_Moon:_Tree_of_Tranquility
edit: seems natsume pushed it back a month

Hype get? I'm definitely getting the DS games on release date. I kinda sorta don't have a Wii now, but maybe I'll try and rent it and see how it is.


Also, I beat Rune Factory ages ago. Final thoughts on the game - the game is EXTREMELY easy to break, as soon as you get your house expansion and enough material you'll be equipped with some majorly broken weapons/armor. Money is far too easy to get. Lynette, the girl only obtainable after you beat the game, is WAY too time consuming to get (and I was saving for her). I didn't feel like playing the game after I beat it either.

However, I haven't had that much fun playing a game in a LONG time, I couldn't let go of the game when I was into it, and while I admit there's a lot of things that need improvement, Natsume really did a great job on it.


And lastly, I think I'm going to start up my SNES spmetime soon and get back to playing the first Harvest Moon. I've never actually seen the best ending and I'm headed down that road, I think.

[JustB]

Thread necromancy like whoah.

I'm going to have to play though my snes copy of Harvest Moon that I've had for 8+ years and never started.

[Mr. Bastos]

I didn't know there was a harvest moon thread. I enjoyed the game on the PS1, but never finished it and have wanted to play some of the other ones. How are the DS games? I heard Rune Factory is pretty good and will probably give it a play. Too bad about that Wii Harvest Moon, I just packed up my Wii in preparation to move and I won't touch it until sometime next year.

[MechZZ]

Also, I beat Rune Factory ages ago. Final thoughts on the game - the game is EXTREMELY easy to break, as soon as you get your house expansion and enough material you'll be equipped with some majorly broken weapons/armor. Money is far too easy to get. Lynette, the girl only obtainable after you beat the game, is WAY too time consuming to get (and I was saving for her). I didn't feel like playing the game after I beat it either.



How long did it take you to get the first expansion? Like, what skills should you be going for first, and what should you be doing with your general day.

[GC!?]

Well its been a long time since I played it, so I don't really remember when I got my first/second expansion. It generally took a while to do though. The second cave is known for spawning lots of wood though. Gather wood early, it'll help.

Skills..I think when you get the first expansion, you'll be able to buy a small fridge and a table for cooking stuff. Try that out until you get the second expansion, and with that expansion you'll be able to smith weapons/armor. By the time you get that, you'll probably be within the last few caves in the game, and the caves available to you will have tons of copper/gold/silver/etc to make weapons and armor. Selling that stuff will give you lots of money as well.

First thing to do in a general day after the second expansion is to go to caves, gather material, and when you get tired, eat something (the cooking skills youve gained at this point will help) and go to the hot spring. At night, keep smithing until you're completely tired. Eventually your skill will go up high enough to get the best equipment.

[GC!?]

http://www.amazon.com/gp/feature.html/ref=amb_link_7069802_1?ie=UTF8&docId=1000244161&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=top-1&pf_rd_r=0CEX2PT2G78YEXDY7ZFG&pf_rd_t=301&pf_rd_p=409757001&pf_rd_i=harvest%20moon

Amazon apparently decided to dedicate a whole page to Harvest Moons' 10th Anniversary.

This was kind of unexpected IMO because I didn't think Harvest Moon was THAT big a thing. But I'm glad to see it regardless :)

More importantly though, you get a chicken/chick and cow plushies for preordering Tree of Tranquility and Island of Happiness. Well shit, me being as big of a fan as I am, I think I'll do that.

[Figcoinc]

Thanks GC!? for resurrecting this thread!

I can't wait till the next Rune Factory. Even though it was very broken I loved the concept. I hope RF2 fixes those problems, and adds more to it.

That HM for Wii I am going to hold off till I hear something. I want it, but not sure how well it will work with the Wiimote.

[GC!?]

Island of Happiness came out today! I won't be getting mine till next week probably, I ordered it off Amazon for the chicken plush that comes with it.

Can't wait to play it though.

[fistoftheryustar]

Anyone else still play the SNES version? I never got any new systems to play the sequels but I got back into the SNES version.


Back in the daywhen it cmae out on SNES, even if it was a farming game it just felt badass to play bc u knew it was something different and rare. Plus its hellla fun

[GC!?]

I bought the original SNES cart and I still play it. Its still my #1 favorite HM game.

I haven't actually played the GB/GBA versions though (1-3, FoMT).

[fistoftheryustar]

oh yeah has anyone seen the rom hack program that makes your own harvest moon edits?

it lets you switch the pallette, the way the town and ranch look, and the dialogue.

itd be fun to play with the actual sprites and tweak them. anyone know an easy way to do that? who else would want to make a custom HM game for many ppl to play?

[Figcoinc]

I can't wait to play the new Island of Happiness Harvest Moon game! Been a while since I sat down with one seriously. I am just using Goozex to get it though, so it may take a bit depending on how many people decide to trade the game.

I still have my sights set on Rune Factory 2 as well. I loved the first one, and I hope this 2nd one just takes improves upon it.

[Figcoinc]

Wow I am playing the new DS Harvest Moon game. The Island of Happiness. The game is great! One of the best HM games I played in a while. Even though getting used to the stylus movement (ala the DS zelda game) takes time it works.

Though I haven't seriously played a HM game in a bit. So I am hurting for cash and trying to get the girl. I have been giving flowers to the ladies with no luck. My guy is so not pimp. haha

Anyone playing the game have any good strategies to make money, and growing the island?

[GC!?]

Rune Factory 2 in 4 days, provided Natsume doesn't push the release date back again.

[Figcoinc]

Rune Factory 2 in 4 days, provided Natsume doesn't push the release date back again.

I hope it doesn't. I am playing a lot of the Island of Happiness on the DS. One of the best Harvest Moon games I played in a very long time!!

I heard the new Rune Factory game was a lot better than the old one. I am going to pick this up on day fucking one!!!:woot:

[Prophestus]

has anyone played Tree of Tranquility? At least i think thats the name of the Wii one..
I love the SNES/N64/PSX versions, and the new DS ones are hot. But the PS2 and Gamecube HM's i thought personally were bad, so I was wondering how people see this one?

[GC!?]

Rune Factory 2 is out. Well, I'm a day late, but yeah its out. If by some miracle I have free time I'll definitely start playing it.

Island of Happiness...I have to say that a number of things with that game bother me. When a HM game bothers me, thats pretty bad.

Good thing to note is that "Shining Sun and Friends" is the next in line after IoH and it's an improved version of IoH in a number of ways.

[The Fireboy]

Rune Factory 2 is out? I gotta cop that. I never 'beat' the first one though, sadly.

[GC!?]

For maybe the 2-3 people playing Rune Factory 2, here's a nice general guide to look through:

http://faqs.ign.com/articles/931/931607p1.html

There's two "generations" to this game, and the primary goal of the first gen is to get married. I'm trying to hook up with Alicia since she's the only one with tits that I can marry. Otherwise I'd have picked Tanya, but she's a MILF and can't be married :(

[Figcoinc]

For maybe the 2-3 people playing Rune Factory 2, here's a nice general guide to look through:

http://faqs.ign.com/articles/931/931607p1.html

There's two "generations" to this game, and the primary goal of the first gen is to get married. I'm trying to hook up with Alicia since she's the only one with tits that I can marry. Otherwise I'd have picked Tanya, but she's a MILF and can't be married :(

Awesome! I just got a copy of Rune Factory 2 yesterday via a black friday sale on amazon.

IF ANYONE WANTS IT IT IS ONLY 14.99 FROM AMAZON RIGHT NOW!

http://www.amazon.com/Rune-Factory-Fantasy-Purchase-Nintendo-DS/dp/B001BWRBA8/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1?ie=UTF8&s=videogames&qid=1228007362&sr=8-1