What do you get when you take 1 Dog (Named Indiana, of course), 1 Horse (Named Trigger), one broken down old farm, and a first time homesteader and combine them all together? Whatever your answer was, we are pretty sure you didn't say "A farming RPG!". (If you did, then you are more than likely familiar with one of the previous incarnations of Harvest Moon. Congratulations, we are sure you can't wait to get your hot little hands on the N64 version.)
Harvest Moon 64 is seriously easy on the eyes. It features some of the cutest super-deformed characters this side of the SNES. Only this time around the graphics have been cleaned up, given the 64 bit update, and sent on their sugar-shock inducing, insulin requiring, smile-bringing merry little way. All the graphics have a pleasant, friendly look that fit this title perfectly. Unfortunately, sometimes the buildings away from the 'action' flicker as you walk by, but it is nothing that detracts from the gameplay.
You may be wondering "What does one do in a farming RPG ?" Why, you plant fields, raise cattle, do a bit of fishing and maybe even watch some Television. (But be forewarned, the farm does NOT have cable and the reception on Channel 4 sucks.)
You begin this quest by clearing your field of rocks and weeds. This is done the old school way, Zelda-style. You use your sickle or hammer to hack them down or smash them to bits. Once the land is free of obstructions and after a bit of tilling, you can plant your crop and watch it grow. By the time your first crop finally sprouts, you really feel like you have earned it!
However, Harvest Moon 64 isn't all work and no play. Horse races, Seasonal Festivals, and a bit of dating add some spice to this title. As the seasons change and different crops are planted, it becomes very evident just how many neat little bonuses HM64 has in store for you. Sea Spirits, precious emeralds, and other elusive secrets are scattered throughout the game.
Harvest Moon is one of the most inventive games we have encountered on the N64.
While you are given a score for your accomplishments after a certain amount of time, you can theoretically go on playing indefinitely. (Now, why don't more RPG's have that option?) With the ability to get married and have children, we are sure plenty of gamers will take advantage of this feature. (In case you were wondering, baby cows come from using a bull 'spirit' potion on one of your cows. As for where the children come from, you'll have to find that out for yourselves :)
If innovation and boldness is something you want in a videogame, look no further. Pick up this game and see why I call Harvest Moon 64 "Farmer Fantasy for the N64."
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