Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com Joystiq http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Dead Space 3 resource farming glitch won't be patched, is intentional]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/09/dead-space-3-resource-farming-glitch-wont-be-patched-is-intent/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/09/dead-space-3-resource-farming-glitch-wont-be-patched-is-intent/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/09/dead-space-3-resource-farming-glitch-wont-be-patched-is-intent/#comments
A recently-discovered glitch in Dead Space 3 that allows players to farm infinite resources for item crafting isn't a glitch after all, according to EA's statement to GameFront. The method for obtaining said resources, skirting the game's microtransaction system, won't be patched out, either.

"The resource-earning mechanic in Dead Space 3 is not a glitch. We have no plans to issue a patch to change this aspect of the game. We encourage players to explore the game and discover the areas where resources respawn for free. We've deliberately designed Dead Space 3 to allow players to harvest resources by playing through the game," EA rep Jino Talens said.

The microtransaction model, which allows players to skip the resource-gathering at a cost, is still an option for players. "For those that wish to accumulate upgrades instantly, we have enabled an optional system for them to buy the resources at a minimal cost ($1-$3)," Talens added. With the farming glitch going unchecked, it's more likely that Dead Space 3 players will spend that money on cheap burritos.

JoystiqDead Space 3 resource farming glitch won't be patched, is intentional originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 09 Feb 2013 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dead-space-3EAfarmingglitchmicrosoftpcplaystationps3visceral-gamesxboxSat, 09 Feb 2013 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Dead Space 3 glitch allows infinite resource farming]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/06/dead-space-3-glitch-allows-infinite-resource-farming/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/06/dead-space-3-glitch-allows-infinite-resource-farming/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/06/dead-space-3-glitch-allows-infinite-resource-farming/#comments

Dead Space 3's inclusion of campaign microtransactions incited a negative gut reaction from some potential players, and if we can count on one thing in life, it's people finding ways around things that make them uncomfortable. A glitch in Dead Space 3 allows players to infinitely farm random items from one room near the end of chapter eight, as discovered and recorded by Game Front.

Dead Space 3 allows players to purchase materials for crafting weapons, in both single-player and co-op modes, alongside the standard scavenging and lucky find methods. For the record completed the game without using a single microtransaction, and we still found the experience enjoyable (in a terrifying kind of way).

JoystiqDead Space 3 glitch allows infinite resource farming originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Feb 2013 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bugdead-space-3EAElectronic-ArtsfarmingglitchmicrosoftMicrotransactionsplaystationps3xboxWed, 06 Feb 2013 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Potatoman Seeks the Troof in the fields of a live-action farming trailer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/26/potatoman-seeks-the-troof-in-the-fields-of-a-live-action-farming/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/26/potatoman-seeks-the-troof-in-the-fields-of-a-live-action-farming/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/26/potatoman-seeks-the-troof-in-the-fields-of-a-live-action-farming/#comments

Potatoman Seeks the Troof isn't a live-action agriculture roleplaying game as its trailer would lead us to believe (unfortunately), but it does look intriguing in its own right (fortunately). Potatoman comes from indie developer Pixeljam, and it's available for PC and Mac now, solo for $3, or in a variety of fresh Pixeljam bundles, spanning the Trilogy, Octology and Holiday Bonus.

The Trilogy costs $5 and includes Potatoman, Planeteri and the Bitku beta. The Octology doesn't include any squid-like sea creatures, but it does have all three games in the Trilogy, along with Snowball, Marathon of Doom, the Potatoman soundtrack, Pixeljams Volume 1 album and Dino Run SE. For $15, grab the Holiday Bonus, which includes all of the above goodies, along with the Dino Run text adventure and Beezlebuds alpha.

The above cinematic trailer for Potatoman Seeks the Troof, however, is completely free.

JoystiqPotatoman Seeks the Troof in the fields of a live-action farming trailer originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 26 Dec 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>farmingmacpcpixeljampotatoespotatoman-seeks-the-troofWed, 26 Dec 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: Halo: Reach Achievements made easy (and cheat-y)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/09/video-halo-reach-achievements-made-easy-and-cheat-y/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/09/video-halo-reach-achievements-made-easy-and-cheat-y/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/09/video-halo-reach-achievements-made-easy-and-cheat-y/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Halo: Reach isn't even out in stores, but IGN has already found a way to exploit part of the game for the sake of easy Achievements. In this video, its outlines a surefire method for farming up a good amount of the game's cheevos by tweaking the customized Firefight system to be really hard and then giving yourself invincibility. Which means "you can basically shoot around in circles, and get massive amounts of points." Seems like fun ... we guess?

If nothing else, this shows off just how customizable the multiplayer system in Reach actually is. Bungie has made it so that the priority is coming up with fun gametypes with your friends, not just tweaking for as many points towards Achievement as possible. Not that we don't appreciate sweet, sweet cheevos, but that's not the only reason we're Firefighting against the Covenant, right? Right?

Continue reading Video: Halo: Reach Achievements made easy (and cheat-y)

JoystiqVideo: Halo: Reach Achievements made easy (and cheat-y) originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 09 Sep 2010 20:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>achievementbungiecheatingfarminghaloHalo-Reachignjessica-chobotmicrosoftxboxThu, 09 Sep 2010 20:40:00 EST<![CDATA[FarmVille community surpasses 80 million players]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/20/farmville-community-surpasses-80-million-players/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/20/farmville-community-surpasses-80-million-players/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/20/farmville-community-surpasses-80-million-players/#comments According to information collected by AppData, the FarmVille player base passed the 80 million mark yesterday. We'll give you a second to soak that in. It might help you digest it if we present the number numerically: 80,920,421. Or, perhaps you need another point of reference: That's almost the population of Germany. If you tried to orally count the number of people currently playing FarmVille, it would take you close to four years. And God only knows how large the player base would be then.

In related news, Zynga CEO Mark Pincus recently bought a yacht for his yacht. It's just a smaller yacht, that rests precariously on the bow of the larger yacht, in case the larger yacht breaks down. A lifeyacht, if you will.

[Via Destructoid]

JoystiqFarmVille community surpasses 80 million players originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 20 Feb 2010 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>browser-basedcasualfacebookfarmingfarmvillepopulationsuccessweb-basedzyngaSat, 20 Feb 2010 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Rune Factory 3 sprouts on DS]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/01/rune-factory-3-sprouts-on-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/01/rune-factory-3-sprouts-on-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/01/rune-factory-3-sprouts-on-ds/#commentsThe Rune Factory series is showing that it is still, at heart, part of the Harvest Moon franchise -- mostly by having lots of sequels. The latest issue of Famitsu reveals another, Rune Factory 3 for DS. This is actually the fourth Rune Factory, counting Frontier on Wii.

In addition to his duties as a farmer, new protagonist Maisu, who features a character design right out of Tetsuya Nomura's sketchbook, can transform into monsters, gaining different abilities in battle and interacting differently with other characters out of battle.

According to IGN's translation, the game now features "active seeds" that grow into plants that can be used in battle! Most exciting farming game ever.

JoystiqRune Factory 3 sprouts on DS originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 01 Jul 2009 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>farmingmarvelousnatsumerpgrune-factoryrune-factory-3Wed, 01 Jul 2009 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Harvest Moon: Welcome to the debut trailer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/22/harvest-moon-welcome-to-the-debut-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/22/harvest-moon-welcome-to-the-debut-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/22/harvest-moon-welcome-to-the-debut-trailer/#commentsFiled under: ,


Can you keep up with all these Harvest Moon games? It's getting pretty difficult, but the recently-announced Harvest Moon: Welcome to the Wind Bazaar should be memorable, thanks to the multiplayer elements ... but it's still Harvest Moon, and that means farming.

As with Animal Crossing, you can invite friends to visit your farm, but in Welcome to the Wind Bazaar, you can put them to work! You know someone's a good friend when they start taking care of your business.

JoystiqHarvest Moon: Welcome to the debut trailer originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 Oct 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>farmingharvest-moonmarvelous-interactivemultiplayersimulationWed, 22 Oct 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Draw Harvest Moon art to win a bumper crop from Natsume]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/02/draw-harvest-moon-art-to-win-a-bumper-crop-from-natsume/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/02/draw-harvest-moon-art-to-win-a-bumper-crop-from-natsume/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/02/draw-harvest-moon-art-to-win-a-bumper-crop-from-natsume/#commentsFiled under:

Do you like drawing Harvest Moon cows over, and over, and over again? We're not going to go investigating (for the same reason we try not to investigate any fanart on the intertron), but we suspect that there is a thriving Harvest Moon fanart community -- and they're going to love this.

To celebrate the tenth anniversary of the farming series, Natsume is giving away a pile of stuff, including a DS Lite Kit, a plush cow and chicken, strategy guides for both Island of Happiness on the DS and Tree of Tranquility on the Wii, and unspecified "additional goodies!"

All you have to do is draw a picture (like, on paper) featuring any character and any animal from a Harvest Moon game, and mail it in. Twenty winners will get stuff! Official rules can be found at the link.

JoystiqDraw Harvest Moon art to win a bumper crop from Natsume originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 02 Sep 2008 12:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>farmingharvest-moonmarvelousnatsumesimulationtree-of-tranquilityTue, 02 Sep 2008 12:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Harvest Moon: Waku Waku Animal March uses WiiConnect24]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/22/harvest-moon-waku-waku-animal-march-uses-wiiconnect24/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/22/harvest-moon-waku-waku-animal-march-uses-wiiconnect24/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/22/harvest-moon-waku-waku-animal-march-uses-wiiconnect24/#commentsFiled under: ,

The official website for Bokujou Monogatari: Waku Waku Animal March has updated with new screens and art of all the super-adorable animals that will be featured -- the ones above can even be kept as pets. But even more heartwarming than cartoon pandas is the Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection logo on the front page. The game supports WiiConnect24 in some as-yet-unspecified way -- sharing crops? Sending pictures of yourself riding a goat along the beach?

Marvelous has also announced the Japanese release date: October 30. Since this is a Harvest Moon game, we expect Natsume to pick it up for release here, but they've got to finish with Tree of Tranquility first. Less likely to leave Japan is the promotional campaign associated with Animal March, in which lucky winners will receive Harvest Moon stickers ... or yogurt.


[Via NeoGAF]

JoystiqHarvest Moon: Waku Waku Animal March uses WiiConnect24 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 22 Aug 2008 19:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>farmingharvest-moonHarvest-Moon-Animal-ParademarvelousMarvelous-InteractivenatsumeSimulationwaku-waku-animal-marchFri, 22 Aug 2008 19:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Harvest Moon: Magical Melody port may take root in US soil]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/20/harvest-moon-magical-melody-port-may-take-root-in-us-soil/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/20/harvest-moon-magical-melody-port-may-take-root-in-us-soil/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/20/harvest-moon-magical-melody-port-may-take-root-in-us-soil/#commentsFiled under:

Harvest Moon: Magical Melody was released on the GameCube in 2006 in the US. Rising Star Games, Marvelous's European branch, then ported it to the Wii with new motion controls, releasing that version in March of this year. This makes sense for Europe, since the Wii was out by the time the GameCube version would have been released.

According to a Siliconera interview with Natsume president Yasuhiro Maekawa, the company is considering an American release of that ported Magical Melody. "If we were to release the Wii version of Magical Melody", Maekawa said, "we would most likely be looking at a limited release aimed at our hardcore and loyal fans. We have had quite a few requests to release this game and are looking into it." Limited-edition releases have the power both to tempt fence-sitters and to save money for publishers, so this approach is a smart one.

The rest of the interview discusses the history of the series and of Natsume's involvement, and is an excellent read for anyone with an interest in fake farming.

JoystiqHarvest Moon: Magical Melody port may take root in US soil originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 Aug 2008 20:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>europefarmingharvest-moonmagical-melodynatsumeportWed, 20 Aug 2008 20:18:00 EST<![CDATA[Sweet, delicious release date and teaser for Viva Pinata]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/15/sweet-delicious-release-date-and-teaser-for-viva-pinata/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/15/sweet-delicious-release-date-and-teaser-for-viva-pinata/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/15/sweet-delicious-release-date-and-teaser-for-viva-pinata/#commentsFiled under: ,



One of Rare's overworked carrier pigeons just landed on our windowsill, bringing with it some candy crucial news: Viva Piñata: Pocket Paradise will be launching across North America on September 2nd, in Europe on September 5th, and in the rest of the world beginning September 11th. That's exciting enough (and hey: really soon), but that's not where the happy news ends: Rare also took the time to film a second spoof video for its game, again poking fun at the terribly serious Halo 3 teasers from 2007. You can watch the first after the break (and please do watch it if you haven't already).

Release dates here
"Museum" video here
Our Rare interview here

Continue reading Sweet, delicious release date and teaser for Viva Pinata

JoystiqSweet, delicious release date and teaser for Viva Pinata originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 15 Aug 2008 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>farminggardeningrareremakesimulationthqviva-pinataviva-pinata-pocket-paradiseFri, 15 Aug 2008 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[E308: Viva Pinata was an Xbox game?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/20/e308-viva-pinata-was-an-xbox-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/20/e308-viva-pinata-was-an-xbox-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/20/e308-viva-pinata-was-an-xbox-game/#commentsFiled under:

Okay, confession time: I never played Viva Piñata the first time around. The allure of festive animal husbandry was insufficient to entice me into the console purchase required. I've researched the original (by, uh, watching some YouTube videos and such), but I went into my quick demo of Viva Piñata: Pocket Paradise without a real preconceived notion of how Viva Piñata is supposed to look or play.

How was this ever anything but a DS game? The tasks involved in playing Viva -- watering and planting plants, clearing land, building structures for critters -- make so much sense in the top-down perspective of Pocket Paradise that it's hard to imagine this game in a different perspective on a different system. It would be so much harder, I think, to manage a large-scale garden in a more zoomed-in view. Having a larger, wider look at the goings-on in the garden makes the game seem more natural and easier.

Continue reading E308: Viva Pinata was an Xbox game?

JoystiqE308: Viva Pinata was an Xbox game? originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 20 Jul 2008 17:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3-2008e308farmingjoystiqffeaturesrareremakesimulationthqviva-pinataviva-pinata-pocket-paradiseSun, 20 Jul 2008 17:15:00 EST<![CDATA[E308: Rune Factory Frontier even dazzles us in motion]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/15/e308-rune-factory-frontier-even-dazzles-us-in-motion/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/15/e308-rune-factory-frontier-even-dazzles-us-in-motion/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/15/e308-rune-factory-frontier-even-dazzles-us-in-motion/#commentsFiled under:



After seeing this new Rune Factory Frontier video (not to mention the new screens in our gallery below), we can't help but crow on again about how wonderful this game looks.

We haven't learned many new facts about the game at E3 -- at least, not yet. We did find out, though, that the little fairy-like creatures hanging around in certain screens are actually spirits. As more spirits gather, you might run into larger and rarer creatures.

While we know Frontier won't be a sandbox style game, the video makes it look like there will be a lot of exploring to do. This could become a pain in a Rune Factory game (having to plant certain crops in a certain dungeon because of its season, and then constantly having to run around and take care of those crops), we love the idea of having a big area to feel out. We really can't wait for this one -- 2009 won't come fast enough.

Check out the screens in the gallery if you'd like, but make sure to click on the "High Res" button to get a feel for their full beauty.


JoystiqE308: Rune Factory Frontier even dazzles us in motion originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 15 Jul 2008 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>argiculturee3-2008e308farmingharvest-moonmarvelousrpgrune-factoryrune-factory-frontiersimxseedTue, 15 Jul 2008 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[E308: Bushels of excitement sprout as Harvest Moon trailer is revealed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/14/e308-bushels-of-excitement-sprout-as-harvest-moon-trailer-is-re/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/14/e308-bushels-of-excitement-sprout-as-harvest-moon-trailer-is-re/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/14/e308-bushels-of-excitement-sprout-as-harvest-moon-trailer-is-re/#commentsFiled under: ,

A simple, relaxing day on the farm. Sounds like a perfect treat to escape the hustle and bustle of big cities, hostile takeovers and estate settlements. The Pensky file will have to wait, because the brand new trailer for Harvest Moon: Island of Happiness has arrived, and it will charm the pants off you.

Natsume was quick to deliver its E3 lineup, and they have already begun showering us with fertile, productive videos and news. Nice one! Go on -- use your powers of vision to check out the above video, then use your powers of purchasing to buy the thing when it comes out. Harvest Moon is a pretty failsafe franchise.

JoystiqE308: Bushels of excitement sprout as Harvest Moon trailer is revealed originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 14 Jul 2008 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3-2008e308farmingharvest-moonHarvest-Moon-DS-Island-of-Happinessisland-of-happinessMarvelous-InteractivenatsumesimulationMon, 14 Jul 2008 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Harvest Menagerie]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/13/harvest-menagerie/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/13/harvest-menagerie/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/13/harvest-menagerie/#commentsFiled under: ,


Harvest Moon: Tree of Tranquility already features some wild and exotic animals not usually found in the adorable farming series, like friendly ostriches. The newly-announced sequel seems to be going even further down that wacky path. For one thing, it's called Bokujou Monogatari: Waku Waku Animal March (Harvest Moon: Exciting Animal March). For another, animals like a lion, a giraffe, a hippopotamus, and a zebra can be seen in the art found on the new game's website.

Other than the new animals and a new, older-looking pair of player characters, Waku Waku Animal March looks strikingly similar to Tree of Tranquility. Check out the screens at Famitsu and more at Dengeki. It will be interesting to see if Natsume picks this up for localization or if the new Marvelous USA takes care of it themselves (through XSEED).

[Thanks, ASH!]

JoystiqHarvest Menagerie originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 13 Jul 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>farmingharvest-moonmarvelousnatsumesimulationwaku-waku-animal-marchSun, 13 Jul 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Natsume makes us a happy blog with new Harvest Moon screens]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/07/natsume-makes-us-a-happy-blog-with-new-harvest-moon-scree/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/07/natsume-makes-us-a-happy-blog-with-new-harvest-moon-scree/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/07/natsume-makes-us-a-happy-blog-with-new-harvest-moon-scree/#commentsFiled under:

The fine folk at Natsume just sent over a couple of new screens from latest installment in their popular Harvest Moon franchise, upcoming DS title Harvest Moon: Island of Happiness. For those of you familiar with the franchise, you should pretty much know what to expect. Farming, tending to livestock and interacting with NPCs is usually the order for the day, so we don't expect this title to be any different. Not that it's a bad thing, mind you. We like taking care of virtual cows as much as the next DS-obsessed blog.

Hit up our gallery below for the new screens from Island of Happiness.

JoystiqNatsume makes us a happy blog with new Harvest Moon screens originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 07 Jul 2008 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>farmfarmingharvest-moonHarvest-Moon-DS-Island-of-Happinessisland-of-happinessMarvelous-InteractivenatsumesimSimulationMon, 07 Jul 2008 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Harvest Moon: Ostrich of Mobility]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/07/harvest-moon-ostrich-of-mobility/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/07/harvest-moon-ostrich-of-mobility/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/07/harvest-moon-ostrich-of-mobility/#commentsFiled under:

Natsume is celebrating the ten-year anniversary of the Harvest Moon franchise* in the best possible way: with new Harvest Moon games. They released new screens today of the Wii farming game Harvest Moon: Tree of Tranquility, which feature all the best parts of Harvest Moon: planting stuff, caring for animals, riding around on an ostrich -- wait, what? In case all the tomato-growing hadn't quite lured you into the world of Harvest Moon yet, maybe the allure of awkward livestock vehicles may do the trick.

*They say it's the ten-year anniversary, but Harvest Moon came out in Japan in 1996 and the U.S. in 1997. It is the ten-year anniversary of the PAL release of Harvest Moon SNES, so it still counts!


[Via press release]

JoystiqHarvest Moon: Ostrich of Mobility originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 07 Jul 2008 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>farmingharvest-moonHarvest-Moon-Tree-of-TranquilitymarvelousMarvelous-InteractivenatsumeSimulationtree-of-tranquilityvictorMon, 07 Jul 2008 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rune Factory commands you to use the ring]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/30/rune-factory-commands-you-to-use-the-ring/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/30/rune-factory-commands-you-to-use-the-ring/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/30/rune-factory-commands-you-to-use-the-ring/#commentsFiled under: ,


Rune Factory Frontier is looking too hot for its own good, as evidenced by these newest screens. We gobble up every piece of Frontier media with such frenzy, it's as if we grew them ourselves! Get it? Growing, eating, the whole Harvest Moon thing? Funny? No?

These images need a wee bit of explanation. The above menu represents the new ring command system, allowing for maximum efficiency while harvesting those sweet, sweet runes. Different items can be assigned to each slot in the item ring, so you can grab anything you need on the fly. It's not the most mind-blowingly original feature (any attacking runes for massive damage?), but rather more evidence that Rune Factory Frontier won't disappoint. More screens after the break!

Continue reading Rune Factory commands you to use the ring

JoystiqRune Factory commands you to use the ring originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 30 Jun 2008 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>farmingfune-factoryharvest-moonrpgrune-factory-frontierMon, 30 Jun 2008 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[How tranquil is this Tree of Tranquility trailer?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/24/how-tranquil-is-this-tree-of-tranquility-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/24/how-tranquil-is-this-tree-of-tranquility-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/24/how-tranquil-is-this-tree-of-tranquility-trailer/#commentsFiled under: ,

Lack of press? Lack of press? Why, that's all wrong ... now. The latest trailer for Harvest Moon: Tree of Tranquility has surfaced, in English and everything. Well, there's only five spoken words from the cheerful announcers, but the gameplay content features some items the harvesting hero is working with, like "perfect turnip" and "used hoe."

It looks like a lovely, peaceful game (aside from the vicious attacks). The mix of farming and socializing has always been a great feature of Harvest Moon, and the wait for a full-fledged title on the Wii has been agonizing. Not long now -- August 26th is the time to plant to evergreen seeds of fun. And tranquility.

JoystiqHow tranquil is this Tree of Tranquility trailer? originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 24 Jun 2008 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>agriculturecowfarmingharvest-moonHarvest-Moon-Tree-of-TranquilitymarvelousMarvelous-Interactivenatsumesimulationtree-of-tranquilityTue, 24 Jun 2008 16:15:00 EST<![CDATA[North America harvests Rune Factory 2 this fall]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/24/north-america-harvests-rune-factory-2-this-fall/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/24/north-america-harvests-rune-factory-2-this-fall/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/24/north-america-harvests-rune-factory-2-this-fall/#commentsFiled under:

In the best DS news we'll hear all day (depending on which DS Fanboy staff member you ask), Natsume announced that they're bringing Rune Factory 2 to North America this fall. While we predicted localization would happen eventually, it was always a matter of when, so we're glad to see it being taken care of. Considering that the first game in the series took a year to find its way over here, a nine-month delay (Japan got the game last January) doesn't seem too bad at all.

While we initially thought this sequel would be too similar to the original Rune Factory, the premise adds some freshness into the RPG-Harvest Moon formula. In Rune Factory 2, you not only play as the main character, Kyle, but later you take over as his child. The game therefore spans two generations, providing us with double the fun.

If you share our excitement, make sure to check out the first English screens in our gallery below.


[Via press release]

JoystiqNorth America harvests Rune Factory 2 this fall originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 24 Jun 2008 11:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>agriculturefantasy-harvest-moonfarmingharvest-moonmarvelousmarvelous-interactivenatsumerpgrune-factoryrune-factory-2runefactorysimTue, 24 Jun 2008 11:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Rune Factory screens continue to impress]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/23/rune-factory-screens-continue-to-impress/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/23/rune-factory-screens-continue-to-impress/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/23/rune-factory-screens-continue-to-impress/#commentsFiled under: ,


More beautiful Rune Factory Frontier screens have surfaced, and we're still pining over this lovely-looking game. Between the farming, monster slaying and collecting, flying whales, and glowing creatures, we're pretty much in awe of this RPG-meets-farming-sim hybrid.

Granted, not everyone who played the first title in the series for the Nintendo DS appreciated the gameplay, but we thoroughly enjoyed it. Just by sticking to those basic tenets and adding visuals like these, we doubt we'll be disappointed. If Marvelous adds some extra goodies as well, that would just be icing on this agricultural cake.

You only have to check past the break to see the rest of the pretties.

Continue reading Rune Factory screens continue to impress

JoystiqRune Factory screens continue to impress originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 23 Jun 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>farmingharvest-moonmarvelousmarvelous-interactiverune-factoryrune-factory-frontiersimMon, 23 Jun 2008 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Why buy the Harvest Moon when you get the cow for free?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/09/why-buy-the-harvest-moon-when-you-get-the-cow-for-free/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/09/why-buy-the-harvest-moon-when-you-get-the-cow-for-free/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/09/why-buy-the-harvest-moon-when-you-get-the-cow-for-free/#commentsFiled under: ,

There's been a disturbing lack of press about Harvest Moon: Tree of Tranquility. In fact, we've probably seen and heard more about Rune Factory: Frontier than we have about Tree, which came out in Japan last year.

What we do know is that preordering the title through Amazon will get you an adorable cow plushie. Of course, it's difficult to tell when you'll actually receive the game and plush doll; Natsume lists "Summer 2008," Gamestop lists late July, Gamefly lists early August, and Amazon lists late August, to name a few of the scattered release dates.

Still, for Harvest Moon fans who were planning to buy the game anyway, a cute cow plush is a nice bonus that might make preordering through Amazon the best way to go. It's certainly not the greatest gift ever, but we think it will definitely appeal to the Harvest Moon crowd ... mostly because we're in that crowd, and we want one for ourselves.

Gallery: Harvest Moon


[Via CAG]

JoystiqWhy buy the Harvest Moon when you get the cow for free? originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 09 Jun 2008 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>agricultureamazoncowfarmingharvest-moonmarvelousmarvelous-interactivenatsumeplushplushiepreorderpreorder-bonussimtree-of-tranquilityMon, 09 Jun 2008 10:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Harvest Moon: Chicken of Happiness]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/09/harvest-moon-chicken-of-happiness/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/09/harvest-moon-chicken-of-happiness/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/09/harvest-moon-chicken-of-happiness/#commentsFiled under:

Okay, the bad news first: it looks like that rumored delay for Harvest Moon: Island of Happiness was not only true, but understated: while GameStop still says July 29, Amazon now says August 26, and other recent updates to their listing seem to indicate that they know what's going on.

Those "other recent updates" form the good news: if you preorder Island of Happiness from Amazon, you get this amazingly cute plush chicken and chick, both of which look like they came from the Pac-Man cartoon. We don't care when it's coming out or, really, what the game is: we just want the spheroid chicken.


[Via CAG]

JoystiqHarvest Moon: Chicken of Happiness originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 09 Jun 2008 08:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>farmingharvest-moonHarvest-Moon-DS-Island-of-Happinessisland-of-happinessmarvelousMarvelous-InteractiveNatsumepreorderSimulationMon, 09 Jun 2008 08:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Rune Factory Frontier produces screens, website]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/06/rune-factory-frontier-produces-screens-website/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/06/rune-factory-frontier-produces-screens-website/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/06/rune-factory-frontier-produces-screens-website/#commentsFiled under:


Harvest Moon fans (like us) are probably drooling at the thought of Rune Factory: Frontier, which is releasing in Japan sometime this year (and not in other territories until forever, we'd guess). Yet by now, you should be used to the "look but don't touch" mantra, with all the screens we show you week after week.

As far as Rune Factory: Frontier goes, being restricted to looking is especially painful because the screens are nothing short of lovely. We only wish that Marvelous was quicker with the whole localization thing.

In other news, the game's official website is open for business. Since the site isn't offering anything tangible at the moment, though, you can just click past the break to see the rest of the pretties.

Continue reading Rune Factory Frontier produces screens, website

JoystiqRune Factory Frontier produces screens, website originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 06 Jun 2008 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>agriculturefarmingharvest-moonmarvelousmarvelous-interactiverune-factoryrune-factory-frontiersimFri, 06 Jun 2008 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Factor in some Runes on the Wii]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/04/factor-in-some-runes-on-the-wii/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/04/factor-in-some-runes-on-the-wii/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/04/factor-in-some-runes-on-the-wii/#commentsFiled under:

An announcement for all those interested in putting some hours in down at the nearest factory or processing facility -- you can now work with runes. Marvelous Entertainment made the announcement for Rune Factory: Frontier in the latest Famitsu, and that's factoriffic. We unearthed some scans, which we have here for you today. Well, not here. Up there ... and here.

The series had a good showing on the DS, so it's time for the bigger console brother to take a shot at harvesting some quality gameplay. Rune Factory: Frontier also looks set to feature Raguna from the first title, as he goes about his day farming, looking for buxom beauties and occasionally roughing up a baddie or two. The game is scheduled for a 2008 release date in Japan, but hopefully it won't take long to make the international rounds.

JoystiqFactor in some Runes on the Wii originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 04 Jun 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>agriculturefarmingharvest-moonmarvelous-entertainmentragunarune-factoryrune-factory-frontierrunesscansWed, 04 Jun 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Harvest Moon: Delay of Frustration]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/15/rumor-harvest-moon-delay-of-frustration/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/15/rumor-harvest-moon-delay-of-frustration/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/15/rumor-harvest-moon-delay-of-frustration/#commentsFiled under:

Once mooted for a June 8th release, Harvest Moon: Island of Happiness now looks like being held up for almost two months, after Gamestop listed a revised release date of July 29th.

Oh, sure, that's not the same as official confirmation from Natsume by any means, but we won't lie to you: we're all worried sick. Our cow, Clover (far right), is so concerned she's barely yielding any milk, the sheep are bleating more than usual, while mealtimes at the old farmhouse are now conducted in deathly silence. Even the chickens look sort of anxious.


[Via Go Nintendo]

JoystiqRumor: Harvest Moon: Delay of Frustration originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 15 May 2008 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>delayfarminggamestopharvest-moonHarvest-Moon-DS-Island-of-Happinessisland-of-happinessmarvelousMarvelous-InteractivenatsumesimsimulationThu, 15 May 2008 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ubisoft harvests a new farming game]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/27/ubisoft-harvests-a-new-farming-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/27/ubisoft-harvests-a-new-farming-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/27/ubisoft-harvests-a-new-farming-game/#commentsFiled under:

Ubisoft is entering the farm sim genre, bringing a game called Farm Life to the Nintendo DS. While it may not be as good as the games in the Harvest Moon series (that remains to be seen), we doubt it could be as bad as John Deere: Harvest in the Heartland. At any rate, we don't mind there being some more agriculture love on our favorite handheld.

The source for this information is the Unterhaltungssoftware Selbstkontrolle, which (if you don't sprechen Deutsche) is the German version of the ESRB.

Spencer Yip over at Siliconera also noticed a rating for another Ubisoft DS game called Midnight Play Pack. Anyone want to speculate on what this game might be? (Keep it clean, folks.)

JoystiqUbisoft harvests a new farming game originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 27 Mar 2008 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>agriculturefarm-lifefarmingmidnight-play-packsimsimulationubisoftThu, 27 Mar 2008 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[2008's Biggest Blips: Harvest Moon: Island of Happiness]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/04/2008s-biggest-blips-harvest-moon-island-of-happiness/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/04/2008s-biggest-blips-harvest-moon-island-of-happiness/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/04/2008s-biggest-blips-harvest-moon-island-of-happiness/#commentsFiled under:

Developer: Marvelous
Publisher: Marvelous/Natsume
Release: June 8

When it comes to light-hearted, adorable games that make us want to smile, the Harvest Moon games top the list. The formula is relatively simple: grow and harvest crops, woo boy/girl, forge friendships, lather, rinse, repeat. Yet, if playing Harvest Moon doesn't tug at your heartstrings even a tiny bit, you're probably the kind of person that eats babies for a living. Not that there's anything wrong with that (in fact, we have an excellent barbecue sauce recipe, if you're interested).

In case you need even more evidence that the Harvest Moon series is full of feel-good games, the two upcoming entries for the DS are subtitled Cute and Island of Happiness. How much sweeter can you get without dying from an immediate sugar coma?

Borrowing a page from Lost in Blue, Island of Happiness kicks off with your character and a handful of friends stranded on a deserted island. As the game world changes and the number of buildings increases, more and more people start settling there. The game features 100 different NPCs, some of whom are bachelors (or bachelorettes, depending on whether you start the game as a girl or boy) that you can woo and marry. The game also features 3D graphics and utilizes stylus controls, thereby making full use of the handheld's capabilities.

We only wish more games could be as relaxing and refreshing as those in the Harvest Moon series. As far as we're concerned, all games could use a good dose of Harvest Moon in them. To prove our point, we've made a few suggestions of game mash-ups that we'd like to see happen.

1. Harvest Moon meets Contra in Super Seed
Is it just a coincidence that one of the heroes of Contra is Lance Bean? If you ask us, this game is just begging for a Harvest Moon infused sequel.

2. Harvest Moon meets Resident Evil in Mansion of Magical Itchy ... Tasty
Did you ever stop to think that zombies need a little love, too? Did Chris Redfield or Jill Valentine ever take the time to invite the zombies to a festival, or try to gain some heart points with a platter of fried brains? Maybe impaling people is just the tyrant's way of indicating that he'd really like someone to bring him a kebab.

3. Harvest Moon meets Metroid in Metroid Prime: Gatherers
Samus has done enough hunting. It's time for her to switch gears.

4. Harvest Moon meets Castlevania in Dawn of Happiness
Castlevania needs to turn that frown upside down. Dawn of Sorrow? No thanks, Debbie Downer IGA.

5. Harvest Moon meets Dementium in A Wonderful Ward
Ending up in a mysterious place without knowing why you're there isn't uncommon in the Harvest Moon games. If one of these protagonists ended up in Redmoor Hospital, we're sure they'd spend their time planting crops and making friends with the locals.

N+ Back Come the revolution

Joystiq2008's Biggest Blips: Harvest Moon: Island of Happiness originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 04 Feb 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>08blipscuteds-cutefarmfarmingharvest-moonHarvest-Moon-DS-Island-of-Happinessisland-of-happinessmarvelousMarvelous-InteractivenatsumesimsimulationMon, 04 Feb 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DS Fanboy Review: John Deere: Harvest in the Heartland]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/20/ds-fanboy-review-john-deere-harvest-in-the-heartland/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/20/ds-fanboy-review-john-deere-harvest-in-the-heartland/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/20/ds-fanboy-review-john-deere-harvest-in-the-heartland/#commentsFiled under:

What do tractors, video games, and shoveling up cow poop have in common? If you guessed John Deere: Harvest in the Heartland, you probably read the title of this review. In case you haven't heard of this brand-licensed game, though, it's essentially a farming simulator that was recently released for the Nintendo "Niche Games Haven" DS.

While the brand might not mean much to gussied up city folk, Deere & Company happens to be the world's leading manufacturer of farming equipment (thanks, Wikipedia!). In fact, the John Deere brand became so popular that it incited a horrible fashion trend a few years ago that led to people who weren't truckers wearing trucker hats. But, what does this all mean for Harvest in the Heartland? Is it possible that John Deere would not only find success in agriculture and fashion, but in video games as well? Let's find out, shall we?

Continue reading DS Fanboy Review: John Deere: Harvest in the Heartland

JoystiqDS Fanboy Review: John Deere: Harvest in the Heartland originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 20 Dec 2007 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>black-lantern-studiosdestineerfarmingharvest-in-the-heartlandjohn-deerejoystiqfeaturessimsimulationThu, 20 Dec 2007 14:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Rune Factory 2 screens give us deja vu]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/17/rune-factory-2-screens-give-us-deja-vu/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/17/rune-factory-2-screens-give-us-deja-vu/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/17/rune-factory-2-screens-give-us-deja-vu/#commentsFiled under:

As we see more and more Rune Factory 2 screens, it's becoming pretty evident that the game is going to be almost exactly like its predecessor, only with slightly altered characters and possibly a kind-of-different storyline.

Does the prospect of an extremely similar game excite you Rune Factory fans, or was one time around enough? Since we loved the first game so much, we're going to go with the "if it ain't broke, don't fix it" mantra, although it'd be nice to see a few more changes made to the sequel.

You can check out some more screens that probably won't surprise you after the break.

Continue reading Rune Factory 2 screens give us deja vu

JoystiqRune Factory 2 screens give us deja vu originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 17 Dec 2007 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>farmfarmingharvest-moonmarvelousmarvelous-interactiverune-factory-2Mon, 17 Dec 2007 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rune Factory 2 manufactures some fresh screens]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/03/rune-factory-2-manufactures-some-fresh-screens/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/03/rune-factory-2-manufactures-some-fresh-screens/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/03/rune-factory-2-manufactures-some-fresh-screens/#commentsFiled under:

If checking out screens of in-game characters conversing is your idea of a good time, then put on your favorite jig-dancing shoes and prepare to get down. Dengeki put up some new screens for Rune Factory 2 and they're focused on the fun conversations one will have in the game.

So, be sure to head on over and check those out, should you be so inclined.

See also: Additional screenshots and the Japanese extras

JoystiqRune Factory 2 manufactures some fresh screens originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 03 Dec 2007 13:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>farmfarmingmarvelousrune-factory-2Mon, 03 Dec 2007 13:10:00 EST<![CDATA[The Rune Factory also manufactures videos]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/21/the-rune-factory-also-manufactures-videos/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/21/the-rune-factory-also-manufactures-videos/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/21/the-rune-factory-also-manufactures-videos/#commentsFiled under: ,

The website for the fantasy-farming sequel*, Rune Factory 2, has been updated with new character art and, most importantly, a new trailer. Marvelous is throwing everything they can at the audience, pulling out the full bag of Japanese trailer tricks: anime intros, soaring J-pop background music, and, on occasion, footage of the game.

While the trailer smartly focuses on aspects of the game that play well in trailers, like romance and fighting, you can also see plenty of the farming action that Harvest Moon series fans care for. If you look over at the monsters page, you can check out some of the creatures that your hero Kyle can capture and tame, many of which look suspiciously similar to livestock. Or Gollum. All of these creatures can be found in the previous Rune Factory, with the exception of the "Orc Viking," who is not nearly as cute as the Woolly seen here. Also be sure to hit the system page for new screens.

*That is, a farming game in a fantasy sequel. You don't actually grow fantasies.

JoystiqThe Rune Factory also manufactures videos originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 21 Nov 2007 09:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>farmfarmingharvest-moonmarvelousrune-factory-2Wed, 21 Nov 2007 09:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Rune looks like a lady]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/12/rune-looks-like-a-lady/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/12/rune-looks-like-a-lady/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/12/rune-looks-like-a-lady/#commentsFiled under: , ,

With only a few weeks left before the North American release of Rune Factory: A Fantasy Harvest Moon (5/1), developer Neverland Co. has announced a sequel to its farming sim and RPG hybrid. The latest issue of Famitsu has screenshots for the follow-up, and they show a remarkable amount of improvement to the original's graphics.

It's still too early to call the redhead protagonist's gender, but our money's on the character being a guy. You can never tell these days, what with all the effeminate farmhands running around. Let us know what you think -- is he one of the dudes? Or is she the princess of Cootie Town? Check past the jump for the Rune Factory 2 magazine scans and a full profile shot of the androgynous hero.

Continue reading Rune looks like a lady

JoystiqRune looks like a lady originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 12 Apr 2007 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsdslitefarmfarmingharvestmoonmarvelousinteractivemonsterneverlandneverlandconintendodsrpgrunefactoryrunefactory2Thu, 12 Apr 2007 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Harvest Moon: The Island I Develop With You screens]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/29/harvest-moon-the-island-i-develop-with-you-screens/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/29/harvest-moon-the-island-i-develop-with-you-screens/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/29/harvest-moon-the-island-i-develop-with-you-screens/#commentsFiled under:

While the title itself is different, it still contains one key element -- Harvest Moon. The popular series that took the sweat and toil out of real farming and made it fun in a game is branching out to sea.

After a terrible disaster while at sea you are stuck on an island with a few other colleagues. Instead of just being stranded on an island, you are going to be stranded on an island and farm it. Genius! Take a look at the new screens and see the excitement yourselves.

We are thinking pineapples. Lots and lots of pineapples.

JoystiqHarvest Moon: The Island I Develop With You screens originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 29 Sep 2006 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>farmingharvest moonharvest moon dsharvest moon the island i develop with youHarvestMoonHarvestMoonDsHarvestMoonTheIslandIDevelopWithYouislandnintendo dsNintendoDsthe islandTheIslandFri, 29 Sep 2006 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Farming fun without the cow patties]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/22/farming-fun-without-the-cow-patties/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/22/farming-fun-without-the-cow-patties/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/22/farming-fun-without-the-cow-patties/#commentsFiled under: ,

Harvest Moon Heroes producer Yoshifumi Hashimoto posits that a farming sim is far more entertaining than actual farming, and we're forced to agree -- unless you're one of those freaks who actually enjoys yard work and such. However, if you want to get close to the real thing without breaking a sweat or sliding around in the byproducts of pork futures, then the Wii version of the long-running Harvest Moon franchise is just what you need.

In designing the latest installment in the series, Hashimoto says they worked to walk a fine line between work and play. After all, if the game is too much like work, then why play? Why not trundle into the backyard, shovel in one hand and spade in the other, and make your own garden? Harvest Moon Heroes works to get as close to that as possible, albeit without the added bonus of fresh tomatoes or peppers. But it sounds like the game will be a perfect illustration of the Wii's ability to translate the gaming experience into reality, or at least a semblance thereof. Sounds like a sign a great things to come.

JoystiqFarming fun without the cow patties originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 22 Sep 2006 07:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>farmfarmingharvestHarvest Moon Heroesharvest moon wiiHarvestMoonHeroesHarvestMoonWiiheroeshorsesmoonNintendoshovelsimulationwiiFri, 22 Sep 2006 07:01:00 EST