Rune Factory 4

 3DS
User Score
8.1

Generally favorable reviews- based on 159 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 124 out of 159
  2. Mixed: 15 out of 159
  3. Negative: 20 out of 159
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  1. cloverblob
    Oct 31, 2013
    10
    This may be the best Rune Factory or Harvest Moon yet. I can nary find anything wrong with it, and I just can't stop playing. I tried to start playing Pokemon X, but couldn't give up Rune Factory to do it. There's so much to do, so much variety, great characters, a charming story. The controls are really well done, there's no stupid touch screen controls like previous Harvest Moon games.This may be the best Rune Factory or Harvest Moon yet. I can nary find anything wrong with it, and I just can't stop playing. I tried to start playing Pokemon X, but couldn't give up Rune Factory to do it. There's so much to do, so much variety, great characters, a charming story. The controls are really well done, there's no stupid touch screen controls like previous Harvest Moon games. It's very difficult to get bored, as you're constantly looking for more time to do things; to spend a day giving gifts to all the villagers or to expand your farm or to do all the requests or to go dungeon crawling or to go out into the map and forage... If only this game were more popular in the mainstream and not consistently overshadowed and labelled "niche". There's are lots of dungeon crawlers, lots of action RPGs, and some sim games out there all of which could benefit from the influence of Rune Factory.… Expand
  2. KillerRabbit
    Nov 11, 2013
    10
    My fears before buying Rune Factory 4 were that it would be too easy and that the farming/sim aspects from Harvest Moon would be overshadowed by the dungeon crawling. But both elements are very well done! On hard mode, the challenge is akin to Dark Souls or Monster Hunter and the farming is as good as any of the Harvest Moon games, maybe even better.

    The characters, in contrast to the    My fears before buying Rune Factory 4 were that it would be too easy and that the farming/sim aspects from Harvest Moon would be overshadowed by the dungeon crawling. But both elements are very well done! On hard mode, the challenge is akin to Dark Souls or Monster Hunter and the farming is as good as any of the Harvest Moon games, maybe even better.

    The characters, in contrast to the down to earth types from the HM games, are very anime/RPG inspired which might turn some people off. Personally, I found everyone to be charming and it wasn't too long before I felt like a part of the community.

    The numerous cliches are quite satirical and entertaining if you are a fan of JRPGs. The story actually gets pretty good later on, which was a nice surprise.

    The graphics could be better. The 2d portraits are nice but the 3d is lackluster. After playing this fro a bit, I bought Rune Factory Frontier and the graphics in that game are so nice compared to RF4. I hope the next portable installment gets the Frontier treatment. It's not a big deal though and it still looks great compared to the previous Rune factory games on the DS.

    This is a great game that I recommend to anyone who has ever thought: "Harvest Moon is really fun, but I want to fight monsters too!"    … Expand
  3. MadenameXD
    Oct 21, 2013
    10
    This game is absolutely fantastic. If you're a fan of Rune Factory or Harvest Moon games, then this is definitely a game to check out. The storyline in this is a lot more in-depth than the other games, and there's a LOT more content for you to explore and discover. In Rune Factory 3, for example, I had NO problems rushing through the dungeons. In Rune Factory 4, however, they provide aThis game is absolutely fantastic. If you're a fan of Rune Factory or Harvest Moon games, then this is definitely a game to check out. The storyline in this is a lot more in-depth than the other games, and there's a LOT more content for you to explore and discover. In Rune Factory 3, for example, I had NO problems rushing through the dungeons. In Rune Factory 4, however, they provide a challenge that makes it fun to go through and not just cream everything. Strategy is needed, and it is great. The farming and other aspects of the game like crafting and cooking are very well done, too.… Expand
  4. iipotato
    Jul 22, 2015
    10
    I'm an avid fan of many rpgs on the 3DS, and RF4 has taken the spot as my all time favorite. I've put in over 140 hours into this game, and this is the first game where I've played more than a single file for. I'm only a third finished with what I want to accomplish in this game!

    The characters are beautifully developed; dialogue changes every day, the voice acting is amusing, everyone    I'm an avid fan of many rpgs on the 3DS, and RF4 has taken the spot as my all time favorite. I've put in over 140 hours into this game, and this is the first game where I've played more than a single file for. I'm only a third finished with what I want to accomplish in this game!

    The characters are beautifully developed; dialogue changes every day, the voice acting is amusing, everyone has their own personality, and they move around town based on their preferences rather than being emotionless NPCs with the same schedule all the time. You will find yourself loving each and every character, whether they are a bachelor, a bachelorette, or a simple villager. The town is not very big, so it takes only one or two ingame hours to go through the whole map in order to pass on gifts and raise FP/LP to everyone. The time passes per second, so it is a little fast.

    The dungeon crawling is addictive as well. On days you prefer not to wander in town, you can go out to train your character using a variety of weapons. My personal favorite is the dual blade because it's offensive and swift. Keep in mind that if you want to complete the entire storyline, you might want to consider maxing out your craft and forge skills. I finished my first playthrough without it entirely, but my second file is going to do so.

    RF4 is a game you truly won't regret buying. When I bought it, I simply thought it was like Harvest Moon and the box art was pretty. But it is so much more. It took me a while to pick up a HM game again because once you play a RF game, HM feels smaller in comparison.

    Personally, I think characters are the most important aspect of a simulation rpg. With fascinating characters, you find yourself captivated by the stories you learn as you raise your friendships. You definitely should consider getting this game! (PS, the bachelors are going to ruin your life. I need another copy to marry all six.)    … Expand
  5. Richard_chronos
    Nov 15, 2013
    10
    As a Rune Factory Fan This is for sure the best entry of the series, they solve many of the problems from previous games making it more easy to play and understand for newcomers but keeping all the elements that give personality to rune factory.
    Charming characters, a simple but nice story that fits perfectly, I love the character progression and the new Romance system, My only complain?    As a Rune Factory Fan This is for sure the best entry of the series, they solve many of the problems from previous games making it more easy to play and understand for newcomers but keeping all the elements that give personality to rune factory.
    Charming characters, a simple but nice story that fits perfectly, I love the character progression and the new Romance system, My only complain? you can seriously lose track of time with this game, before i knew it it was already 3:20 A.M and I'm serious when I say that this don't happen just once, If you are tired of the same RPG formula and looking for something different, give it a try and enjoy the world of Rune Factory.    … Expand
  6. Halosoulfire
    Jan 18, 2014
    9
    The Rune Factory Series has only improved with time. Rune Factory 4 brings about a whole new level of interactivity between the protagonist and the towns people in which he or she lives. The story while overall liner has no time limit and you are encouraged to develop relationships with the people within the community. The more you help them the more they help you to where you can takeThe Rune Factory Series has only improved with time. Rune Factory 4 brings about a whole new level of interactivity between the protagonist and the towns people in which he or she lives. The story while overall liner has no time limit and you are encouraged to develop relationships with the people within the community. The more you help them the more they help you to where you can take them with you as allies to fight battles. So if your looking for a good sim/action adventure this is something that you will enjoy.… Expand
  7. wingedwolf
    Feb 22, 2014
    9
    I have played all the DS games of Rune Factory, and i was addicted to it. It was like i was in a game, a very unique one. And when i heard there was Rune Factory 4, i bought and played it and it didn't disappoint me at all. There were new stories, new additions and the characters were different. And also we can choose our gender. I also like the cut-scenes. But the sprites weren't reallyI have played all the DS games of Rune Factory, and i was addicted to it. It was like i was in a game, a very unique one. And when i heard there was Rune Factory 4, i bought and played it and it didn't disappoint me at all. There were new stories, new additions and the characters were different. And also we can choose our gender. I also like the cut-scenes. But the sprites weren't really something i was fond of, some was not really good and felt like it was forgotten, but i still like the art. And the swimming clothes and pajamas weren't all that different, some looks the same.

    But there was also the dating system, which i really love. It made me felt like i was the one dating the character and it felt really romantic, like a real love story.

    What i would like the most was better sprites, more talking with different topics, and the 3D characters could have more expressions and i would like to see a more bigger world, and also it's better if i could see the characters face and body more.    … Expand
  8. Repulsr
    Jul 18, 2014
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Rune Factory 4 was the first Rune Factory/Harvest Moon game I've ever played, and I'm still astounded at the sheer value of this game. The farming-based gameplay proves to be a nice, but not tiring, system and acts as a great compliment to the dungeon-crawling action on the other end of the spectrum. As a large fan of JRPGs in general, I was surprised that a game like Rune Factory 4 could go under the radar for so long! With regards to the story and characters, there's nothing too groundbreaking there, but each character feels unique and the liveliness of the community is simply infectious. From taming monsters to forming parties (everyone in the village can become a party member) to romancing one of 12 bachelors/bachelorettes to managing your farm to cooking and collecting treasure, there is just so much to do in this game! Not to mention the surprising depth behind crafting and cooking beyond the relatively simple surface. One thing that I feel doesn't get mentioned too much in these reviews is that the story of this game is divided into three arcs, with the last arc featuring insane super-dungeons and bosses. Furthermore, festivals and random town events offer frequent breaks from the regular day-to-day activities of the town. Overall, Rune Factory 4 is an excellent and refined product that can be enjoyed by a wide array of people.… Expand
  9. runefactory4
    Jan 2, 2019
    10
    Rune factory 4 is simply the best game of all times, it gives you so much freedom and opens a future where there could be awesome games even better that this one. Big thanks to the developers, producer and everyone involved with this game.
  10. Demonik420
    Oct 19, 2013
    9
    A fantastic game and much better than any other Harvest Moon style game we have yet to get on 3DS.. Thankfully someone still knows how to do this right!.. I was pleasantly surprised at how awesome the game is as the early screens looked sub par.

    The graphics may be modest but its in the charm and solid gameplay mechanics where this game shines brightly. Unfortunately with the latest    A fantastic game and much better than any other Harvest Moon style game we have yet to get on 3DS.. Thankfully someone still knows how to do this right!.. I was pleasantly surprised at how awesome the game is as the early screens looked sub par.

    The graphics may be modest but its in the charm and solid gameplay mechanics where this game shines brightly. Unfortunately with the latest installments of Pokemon overshadowing the release of this game I am worried it wont get the attention it deserves. I can personally say that I have both and have found plenty of time to enjoy the two of them simultaneously.

    My only gripe with the game is the forceful heterosexual gameplay. Where there could have easily existed relationships between the characters of the same gender the developers have opted not to allow it. This however is a minor concern and not one that effects the games score in my mind.

    I know you are probably all still drooling over Pokemon as am I but this little gem from Xseed deserves some of your attention as well this month     … Expand
  11. RileyWRussell
    Nov 11, 2013
    7
    A good change of pace to the other RPG's out there. I played Rune Factory Frontier on the Wii, and this is a definite step forward for the franchise. Where Frontier was murky and confusing on how to progress the main story, Rune Factory 4 is clear and concise. The farming and town aspects are fun and are something you just don't see in other games (obvious Harvest Moon comparisonA good change of pace to the other RPG's out there. I played Rune Factory Frontier on the Wii, and this is a definite step forward for the franchise. Where Frontier was murky and confusing on how to progress the main story, Rune Factory 4 is clear and concise. The farming and town aspects are fun and are something you just don't see in other games (obvious Harvest Moon comparison excluded). If you're an RPG fan and looking for either a solid next RPG, or something a little different from the status quo, this is a good place to look.… Expand
  12. Ernste
    May 25, 2014
    9
    The game graphic is slightly better than rf3 , but the story is extended for sure , the content of the game is more than i expected , you can even fight the boss over a thousand level , forging you weopon like monster hunter , buying new tools like harvest moon friends in mineral town , do some side quest , increase the friendship , fighting with boss......... I wish for a BETTER GRAPHIC ,The game graphic is slightly better than rf3 , but the story is extended for sure , the content of the game is more than i expected , you can even fight the boss over a thousand level , forging you weopon like monster hunter , buying new tools like harvest moon friends in mineral town , do some side quest , increase the friendship , fighting with boss......... I wish for a BETTER GRAPHIC , MORE DRAMATIC STORY AND A KISS SCENE PLEASE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!… Expand
  13. sex69
    Oct 9, 2021
    10
    RUNE FACTORY 4 is fun. It's like an open world. It's an RPG. get married The female character is pretty. What more do you need?
  14. RedMattis
    Jun 8, 2015
    9
    Fantastic gameplay with tons of things to do. Awesome time-waster if you're going on a train trip or the like.

    Strengths: The townspeople don't repeat themselves much, and you can bring both them and any monster (including most bosses) you've tamed along with you into combat. The farming, cooking and crafting all work pretty well and have quite a bit of depth. The game is fairly    Fantastic gameplay with tons of things to do. Awesome time-waster if you're going on a train trip or the like.

    Strengths: The townspeople don't repeat themselves much, and you can bring both them and any monster (including most bosses) you've tamed along with you into combat. The farming, cooking and crafting all work pretty well and have quite a bit of depth. The game is fairly challenging if you want it to be.

    Weak points: The main story is cringe inducingly bad. The male protagonist looking like an 8-year old, which is a bit creepy considering how he is apparently old enough to marry and have kids. The combat can be a bit too simple, especially after you unlock the stronger attacks which tends to stun-lock whole groups of enemies.    … Expand
  15. theirrelephants
    Dec 27, 2021
    8
    One of the best crafting systems of any farming sim game I've ever played. The combat is simple, yet complex.

    The characters are cute.

    My only complaint is that it's too short!
  16. GoombaJMR
    Dec 28, 2015
    9
    It's hard to decide whether or not this game gets a 9 or 10 from me. The graphics aren't that good, even in 3DS standards - but graphics aren't really important when the gameplay is solid and present. Rune Factory IV is such a long game that although I've put roughly 100 hours into it, I have yet to technically beat the third part of the game (there are three large branches). It's a hybridIt's hard to decide whether or not this game gets a 9 or 10 from me. The graphics aren't that good, even in 3DS standards - but graphics aren't really important when the gameplay is solid and present. Rune Factory IV is such a long game that although I've put roughly 100 hours into it, I have yet to technically beat the third part of the game (there are three large branches). It's a hybrid of the action-RPG and the farming/Harvest Moon style genres - and boy does it do the job well. It's in my list of top 3DS games before the start of 2015 (I have yet to play enough of the 3DS titles that HAVE come out in 2015), located near Fire Emblem Awakening, Etrian Odyssey IV, and Persona Q. While the game is much different from the titles listed above, the quality of the game is still at max levels - so take my advice and check this game out!

    Gameplay: 9.5/10
    Story: 8/10
    Music: 9/10
    Presentation: 9.5/10
    Length: 10/10
    Overall: 9.5/10    … Expand
  17. Cheezemaniac
    Dec 28, 2014
    10
    Since I reside in Europe I was shocked when I heard the European release was canceled last year.
    Especially considering I really enjoyed the third installment when I played it a few years ago.
    However the publisher Xceed managed to bring this game to the eshop this year. Rune Factory 4: A fantasy harvest moon is exactly that. It's an solid harvest moon game, harvest moon games are    Since I reside in Europe I was shocked when I heard the European release was canceled last year.
    Especially considering I really enjoyed the third installment when I played it a few years ago.
    However the publisher Xceed managed to bring this game to the eshop this year.

    Rune Factory 4: A fantasy harvest moon is exactly that. It's an solid harvest moon game, harvest moon games are comparable to Animal Crossing. You have a village, you grow plants and crops and have a farm. You build relations with villagers and so on. Rune Factory has fantasy elements in it in the form of dungeons, leveling, monsters and fighting. It's an RPG in that sense. It has a great variety of gameplay aspects that keep this game interesting for a long term. I have this game for a week now and I'm unable to put this game down. The sounds and music are solid, and so are the graphics, albeit a bit dated. The game has a great variety of spouses to choose from and they are all interesting. I've heard this game has 3 arcs and I'm only somewhere in the first one. I've played this game for more than 50 hours by now though so it's really a long lasting game to play. This game is an underrated gem on the 3ds.    … Expand
  18. Grimmolf
    Jan 4, 2014
    9
    Awesome game. This is a mix of an RPG strategy simulation game. It is super fun to interact with monsters and people to make a good adventuring party. The only reason it is a 9 instead of 10 is it gets slightly repetitive after a while and the graphics are only okay. But some people may like the graphics, it is just a personal thing i guess. Anyways overall it is a great game. Must have ifAwesome game. This is a mix of an RPG strategy simulation game. It is super fun to interact with monsters and people to make a good adventuring party. The only reason it is a 9 instead of 10 is it gets slightly repetitive after a while and the graphics are only okay. But some people may like the graphics, it is just a personal thing i guess. Anyways overall it is a great game. Must have if you like strategy RPG's.… Expand
  19. Raybun
    Feb 21, 2014
    10
    This was my first rune factory game, recommended to me because of my large Harvest Moon collection. I was skeptical, but I have to say I enjoyed it far more than I thought I would. There isn't a real 'story' progression besides developing the town and finding romance, but that's to be expected. I also wasn't surprised that you can only be in heterosexual relationships, but it's still a bitThis was my first rune factory game, recommended to me because of my large Harvest Moon collection. I was skeptical, but I have to say I enjoyed it far more than I thought I would. There isn't a real 'story' progression besides developing the town and finding romance, but that's to be expected. I also wasn't surprised that you can only be in heterosexual relationships, but it's still a bit of a downer. Over all, it's extremely fun to play and many hours can go into it before it gets boring.… Expand
  20. petitpurin
    Apr 23, 2014
    9
    Having only played Rune Factory 1, I was absolutely blown away at the improvement in Rune factory 4, and I will find it tough to go back to 2 and 3 when I'm done.
    This game plays much more fluidly than Harvest Moon and everything just seems... right. I haven't played Harvest Moon in months thanks to this game.
    If you enjoy farming but hate the monotony of Harvest Moon, this is the game    Having only played Rune Factory 1, I was absolutely blown away at the improvement in Rune factory 4, and I will find it tough to go back to 2 and 3 when I'm done.
    This game plays much more fluidly than Harvest Moon and everything just seems... right. I haven't played Harvest Moon in months thanks to this game.
    If you enjoy farming but hate the monotony of Harvest Moon, this is the game for you. I hope there will be another installment to this franchise or I will be incredibly sad.    … Expand
  21. dumbo17
    Jun 28, 2014
    10
    This is the best Rune Factory . It's too bad it won't be released in Europe and all of us who want to play it must buy a 3ds from Japan or North America. There's plenty of things to do and you'll never get bored. The romance system is very good and the characters are lovely. Overall, Rune factory 4 is a very charming and fun game.
  22. BadAnimal
    Jun 26, 2017
    10
    Right now this is my favorite 3DS game ever. It has farming, social, fighting, magic, bosses, quests, story, pets, crafting, etc., etc., etc.! I just started playing it 8 weeks ago and am still enjoying it. I'll be so sad when I finish it. I can't recommend this game enough!
  23. nalukima
    Oct 1, 2015
    9
    Rune Factory 4 is a game that I would highly recommend. I found Harvest Moon to be too focused on farming, and while this game does have some farming aspects, it's not the main focus of the game. It has a colorful cast of characters. And, amazingly, almost every time I talk to one of the characters (in the game), they have something new/different to tell me. The art is gorgeous.Rune Factory 4 is a game that I would highly recommend. I found Harvest Moon to be too focused on farming, and while this game does have some farming aspects, it's not the main focus of the game. It has a colorful cast of characters. And, amazingly, almost every time I talk to one of the characters (in the game), they have something new/different to tell me. The art is gorgeous. Surprisingly, the voice actors are very good too. Most of the controls are easy-to-use. This game was really addicting. I think I literally played it for three hours straight, when I first got it.… Expand
  24. xXRedZeroXx
    Jun 18, 2018
    10
    This game is fantastic! I haven't played an RPG as good as this one. I have spend around 300+ hours and started three new games and It stills very funny. This is the best RF game but shamefully it's the last one for the series.
  25. Abrill
    Jun 13, 2016
    10
    This was the first installment of the series that I played. It was excellent! I wish that there were some way to see how many real life hours I sunk into this title I would convey that as well. It's safe to say that it is not a game for everyone as a large portion of time is spent doing extremely tedious and repetitive tasks that I found to be enjoyable. I always aspire to get rich in aThis was the first installment of the series that I played. It was excellent! I wish that there were some way to see how many real life hours I sunk into this title I would convey that as well. It's safe to say that it is not a game for everyone as a large portion of time is spent doing extremely tedious and repetitive tasks that I found to be enjoyable. I always aspire to get rich in a game. Trying to figure out which crops yielded the most reward was very entertaining. The story line was a bit 2 dimensional but moved at a clip that was decided by the player which was nice. I believe that it is important to say I loved fantasy life, hated animal crossing, and found harvest moon titles to be a bit sleepy. Fun, entertaining, engaging, enormous. Excellent time sink on the 3ds.… Expand
  26. RoboElle
    Jun 23, 2016
    8
    This is my first try at any kind of games like this, and I was surprised to know its main pull was the farming aspect. I'd never been so engrossed in farming in any game before, I'm pretty impressed. Cooking, fishing and crafting were FUN, but, on the other hand, the dungeons felt like a chore. My main beef with this game are the characters. The designs, their personalities, they're allThis is my first try at any kind of games like this, and I was surprised to know its main pull was the farming aspect. I'd never been so engrossed in farming in any game before, I'm pretty impressed. Cooking, fishing and crafting were FUN, but, on the other hand, the dungeons felt like a chore. My main beef with this game are the characters. The designs, their personalities, they're all pretty standard. The un-dateable characters were far more appealing to me, particularly the dragon and Porco. YEAH, I SAID IT. What I had to ignore above all, though, was the story. It was a tad too ridiculous for my liking.… Expand
  27. HeroAiur
    Dec 27, 2016
    10
    That;s truly top quality game. The series is awesome but changes in mechanics etc.: makes this game top quality product and those who played this game knows what am I talking about.
    I always feel like playing Skyrim but on my 3DS when I play this game. It's just like a minimalistic Skyrim with full anime graphic. Maybe graphic isn't the best side of this game, but art is for sure.    That;s truly top quality game. The series is awesome but changes in mechanics etc.: makes this game top quality product and those who played this game knows what am I talking about.
    I always feel like playing Skyrim but on my 3DS when I play this game. It's just like a minimalistic Skyrim with full anime graphic. Maybe graphic isn't the best side of this game, but art is for sure. Characters are awesome, plot is good in my opinion I even cried once and it wasn't bad :D
    Control is finally well made what makes this game just even better more fun to play!
    ~Kuhiro    … Expand
  28. Lahvin
    Jun 25, 2019
    9
    This was my first Rune Factory and I loved it. The story is simple enough to he enjoyable and give the game more direction. The amount off stuff to do is pretty impressive. Its a great title to wind down and relad with.
  29. nightstroller
    Apr 30, 2020
    9
    It's been a few years since I first played this game, but the memories I have of it are still quite positive to this day. It did a great job combining farming, exploration, combat, and other RPG elements into one game. The art style was great and the difficulty wasn't too hard. I guess compared to today's video game graphical capabilities, this game now looks dated and maybe even ugly butIt's been a few years since I first played this game, but the memories I have of it are still quite positive to this day. It did a great job combining farming, exploration, combat, and other RPG elements into one game. The art style was great and the difficulty wasn't too hard. I guess compared to today's video game graphical capabilities, this game now looks dated and maybe even ugly but still, this is hands down, one of the best for the 3DS.… Expand
  30. thenerdoftech
    Jul 14, 2020
    10
    It's amazing! First off, the farming, as that's a staple of the series (Harvest Moon/Story of Seasons included). It is a simple system as always, but it is well done and is never frustrating. One thing I like is how certain crops grow better in certain seasons. It adds a bit of realism that the series has needed. And although you don't start with much stamina (RP), it is easy to level upIt's amazing! First off, the farming, as that's a staple of the series (Harvest Moon/Story of Seasons included). It is a simple system as always, but it is well done and is never frustrating. One thing I like is how certain crops grow better in certain seasons. It adds a bit of realism that the series has needed. And although you don't start with much stamina (RP), it is easy to level up and get more work done! Secondly, the characters. There aren't too many people living in your town, but they all have their own personalities and stuff you can do with them. I like how they say something different almost every day, it doesn't ever get old. The marriageable candidates are all interesting and fun. They have their benefits and disadvantages depending on your own opinion. The only gripe I have is with the RNG that takes place when you're trying to date one of the characters. It is very luck based and will probably take you forever to get the bachelor/bachelorette to date you. The character you play as, either Frey (female) or Lest (Male), both are well done in their own right, and have good writing to go with them. You won't be disappointed here!


    Third, the story. The story is set up into three different arcs, and each has their own situations and different consequences. Every character will get involved in some way, and you unlock more and more through this story. In the beginning you will have to take a longer time doing tasks and building the town, but once you've progressed, you'll be pumping out addition after addition! The dialogue is also good enough and has some very well timed humor alongside some very deep moments.


    Last, the combat. The combat is well thought out and while complex, it's simple to learn and master. You can get a full range of different tools and equipment to use and they each have their own advantages depending on the enemy. The difficulty does spike a bit, but the way the game is set up, you can change said difficulty and make it easier on yourself. Also, recruiting monsters and even villagers to help you out is a great addition and works really well (although sometimes the AI isn't the best). The bosses, are all pretty fun and although some can be irritating if you aren't at a high level, none were frustrating to the point I gave up on them.

    Overall, I'd definitely give this game a 9.5/10. Rounded up, that's a 10/10! Minus the minor gripes, and the sometimes laggy experience I had while playing on my 2DS, I loved Rune Factory 4.


    I haven't gotten to try the Switch remaster yet but if it's anything like this game, then it most certainly gets my recommendation!    … Expand
  31. Tabbou
    Jul 10, 2021
    10
    Un des jeux les plus complets auquel j'ai pu jouer sur 3DS !
    Des tonnes de choses à faire : crafting de meubles, d'armes, armures, accessoires... des montagnes de compétences à monter : cuisine, marche, combat, défense, magie, cultures, vente...
    le tout avec un mode histoire vraiment bon, des donjons variés et des défis supplémentaires en post-game, franchement, le jeu est au moins aussi    Un des jeux les plus complets auquel j'ai pu jouer sur 3DS !
    Des tonnes de choses à faire : crafting de meubles, d'armes, armures, accessoires... des montagnes de compétences à monter : cuisine, marche, combat, défense, magie, cultures, vente...
    le tout avec un mode histoire vraiment bon, des donjons variés et des défis supplémentaires en post-game, franchement, le jeu est au moins aussi bon que "stadew valley"    … Expand
  32. cloudydays
    Jan 18, 2023
    10
    My first entry to the Rune Factory franchise. It was so awesome, I can't wait to play the other titles. Seriously, the game play loop is amazing. You can farm, recruit monsters, dungeon crawl, fish, chat with the characters (who by the way, seriously surprise me with the different dialogue and events through out, so cozy and nice, I don't get tired of talking to literally everyone) PlayMy first entry to the Rune Factory franchise. It was so awesome, I can't wait to play the other titles. Seriously, the game play loop is amazing. You can farm, recruit monsters, dungeon crawl, fish, chat with the characters (who by the way, seriously surprise me with the different dialogue and events through out, so cozy and nice, I don't get tired of talking to literally everyone) Play this game! You will not regret it. PS, Leon and Dylas best boys.… Expand

Awards & Rankings

17
#17 Best 3DS Game of 2013
17
#17 Most Discussed 3DS Game of 2013
8
#8 Most Shared 3DS Game of 2013

Critic Reviews

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Metascore
78

Generally favorable reviews - based on 33 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 25 out of 33
  2. Mixed: 8 out of 33
  3. Negative: 0 out of 33
  1. Games Master UK
    Feb 22, 2015
    78
    If words like "pleasant" give you chills then stay away - otherwise pull up a chair and relax a while. [Mar 2015, p.74]
  2. Hobby Consolas
    Jan 23, 2015
    82
    A creative proposal that keeps in track with the previous games' gameplay. It becomes redundant after a few hours of battle, but it possess an undoubtful charm.
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  3. Eurogamer Italy
    Jan 20, 2015
    80
    Rune Factory 4 keep the series fun and fresh while finally porting it to Nintendo 3DS. The gameplay is varied and surprisingly exiting. A must have, if you like the genre, if you don’t, try it anyway.
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