Rune Factory: A Fantasy Harvest Moon

 DS
  • Publisher: Natsume
  • Release Date: Aug 14, 2007
Metascore
78

Generally favorable reviews - based on 26 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 18 out of 26
  2. Mixed: 8 out of 26
  3. Negative: 0 out of 26
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  1. Official Nintendo Magazine UK
    74
    Great for fans, hard work for everyone - it's not bad, just really heavy going. [Feb 2009, p.80]
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  2. Nintendo Power
    70
    The play control is responsive, but sword swinging is hesitant and Raguna is unable to fight and walk at the same time. [Sept 2007, p.88]
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  3. GameSpy
    70
    Rune Factory is a good experiment which introduces new concepts and refreshed gameplay , but it doesn't do a good job of using the DS' many capabilities.
  5. Pocket Gamer UK
    70
    Rune Factory is an impressive advancement for the Harvest Moon series but you have to be committed to get the most out of the experience.
  6. Zentendo
    70
    Those who adore the franchise will most likely find this title worthwhile due to the steps it takes to advance the series into foreign territory, but these gamers have also stuck with the Harvest Moon games for a reason: they can cope with a bevy of flawed design choices to appreciate the redundancy of farming these casual titles provide.
  7. AceGamez
    70
    It's safe to say that if you've never enjoyed the sedate pace of the Harvest Moon formula then Neverland's latest simply isn't for you - but if you're a fan of the series who's looking for a unique twist on the usual procedure then you need look no further than Rune Factory.
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  8. Level7.nu
    70
    This is a title filled with repetitive moments. If plowing your field and watering your plants doesn't sound like tons of fun, this isn't a game for you. But if you like the Harvest Moon series this title does offer a whole lot of tinkering and interesting ideas. The addition of monsters on your farm, upgrading tools and weapons, interacting with other characters and exploring dungeons does expand the experience a whole lot. If you're into the whole life on a farm concept you should definitely give this one a try.
  9. Game Informer
    58
    Just way more trouble than it’s worth.

Awards & Rankings

20
#20 Best DS Game of 2007
15
#15 Most Discussed DS Game of 2007
20
#20 Most Shared DS Game of 2007

User Reviews

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User Score
8.1

Generally favorable reviews- based on 56 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 42 out of 56
  2. Mixed: 8 out of 56
  3. Negative: 6 out of 56
  1. JoshH.
    Sep 14, 2007
    9
    Trevor R. states a lot of misinformed opinions on Rune Factory. For example: "Second, I can't keep track of my assets, like my money, Trevor R. states a lot of misinformed opinions on Rune Factory. For example: "Second, I can't keep track of my assets, like my money, and how much lumber i have, unless I visit a shop." Not true. You can check both simply by pressing start to access the menu and then hitting the shoulder buttons and checking the top screen. It's there. And this, "The love system is not present in this game, instead it is replaced by a terrible, 10 point love system, in a poor attempt, to tie the love aspect to the storyline." I wouldn't say the love system is GONE. Marriage is still an element in-game--so I really don't understand his opinion here either. Same goes for not "labeling" the wood shed, water, and supply bin. What Harvest Moon HAS labeled these? The best you've ever gotten was a little walkthrough by the Mayor. You're not making sense. While I would probably give Trevor's review a 2/10, I'd give Rune Factory a 9/10. It is simply the best Harvest Moon yet, with plenty of things to do and lasts VERY long--like most Harvest Moon--if you devote your time to it. Trevor, please read the game's manual next time.… Full Review »
  2. Radeen
    Aug 25, 2010
    8
    Rune Factory: A Fantasy Harvest Moon is a spin-off to the original Harvest Moon series and in my opinion a generally great game. It takes allRune Factory: A Fantasy Harvest Moon is a spin-off to the original Harvest Moon series and in my opinion a generally great game. It takes all the elements from Harvest Moon games and RPG games and puts them into one game. Harvest Moon fans will find the game a little bit hard to get used to and many RPG fans will criticise the slow pace but for others, this is a rare gem. The game-play is that of all the preceding Harvest Moon games and the battle system is similar to that of the Dragon Quest series. There are a few minor flaws however, one being the repetitiveness of the game. You will have to be very patient with this game to fully enjoy it. Another minor flaw is way too much back-tracking. Some dungeons can only be completed by going back to the beginning which can be annoying. This game isn't essential but it is one of the greatest Harvest Moon games to date and you might just truly enjoy this.… Full Review »
  3. Yojimbo2015
    Jun 4, 2023
    3
    A combination of resource management and RPG-lite based around farming. Clear fields, plough, sow seeds and water your crop and it's about asA combination of resource management and RPG-lite based around farming. Clear fields, plough, sow seeds and water your crop and it's about as fun as it sounds. Pretty to look at but tedious to play.… Full Review »
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