Released in the US on December 22nd, 1999, Harvest Moon 64 stands tall as what is perhaps the best of this series' longstanding farming / life simulation games. Players take control of a grandson who inherits their grandfather's neglected farm and is tasked with restoring such. With only a handful of tools, you learn the basics of working the fields and raising crops. But how you choose to proceed and what to prioritize from there is up to you. From what crops to grow, where to grow them, livestock to acquire, forests to explore, rivers and beaches to fish at, and townsfolk to talk to, there is an abundance of sights and activities to behold each day. And yet only so much time and stamina in a day to cover a small portion of them. As you get into the rhythm of playing, you'll find yourself planning ahead tasks and itinerary, wanting to play just one more day to reach that next milestone.
Aside from its addictive, zen-like mechanics that is a farming life, the game is full of discovery and memorable character growth. Like a slow, simmering stew, each character that you meet in the game has a rich backstory and colorful personality that is slowly revealed should you put in the effort to befriend them. Most notable are the five eligible ladies in which you can woo their way to their hearts and eventually raise a family with, though not without competition from the other villagers, so don't drag your feet if you have your heart set on that special one. Each season is also filled with various holidays and special events, which offer a fun change of pace and additional opportunities to interact with the characters in unique ways, even sometimes boasting your farming prowess. And there are loads of other optional secrets to be discovered, from tool and house upgrades, to intimate events with characters and wonders alike. While the series may have since stagnated in recent years, this N64 version still holds strong with a simple and charming aesthetic, as well as heart and soul that is hard to beat.
The N64 Harvest Moon was leaps and bounds above the SNES one. The SNES one is tedious to play because you could only hold one thing above your head at a time. No bag or storage.
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