Rune Factory: A Fantasy Harvest Moon DS
  • Publisher: Natsume
  • Release Date: Aug 14, 2007
Metascore
78 out of 100

Generally favorable reviews - based on 26 Critics

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. GameZone
    91
    This game earns a spot next to Advance Wars DS and Castlevania: DoS as an essential title in the library of anyone who enjoys top-notch single-player experiences on DS.
  2. Cheat Code Central
    94
    Series fans will find that Rune Factory far exceeds their expectations. The inclusion of combat, magic, and other RPG elements greatly expand on an excellent game design that will feel familiar, if not significantly improved, to many players.
  3. GameShark
    91
    It’s unlikely that Rune Factory is going to make converts out of anyone who doesn’t already enjoy the series but it will certainly please longtime fans, especially those who felt like the series was growing stale.
  4. GamingTrend
    88
    The good news is Rune Factory is long on farming, exploration, and relationships and short on the sillier aspects of the franchise. It may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but the game is long, varied, and a great deal of addictive fun to play. Pick this one up especially if you have a long trip coming up.
  5. GameBrink
    91
    A great game with an overwhelming amount of things to do giving you a lot of freedom to explore the little world and follow the main story at your own pace. [JPN Import]

User Reviews

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User Score
8.5 out of 10

Generally favorable reviews- based on 40 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 15 out of 18
  2. Mixed: 2 out of 18
  3. Negative: 1 out of 18
  1. JoshH.
    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, 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. LeyendaV
    8
    Como fan de Harvest Moon estoy convencido de que lo mejor que le paso a la franquicia fue crear esta sub-saga. Los elementos de RPG puro que incluye y la historia mas trabajada fueron dos elementos que fusionados con el estilo de Simulación crearon una combinación ganadora.… Full Review »
  3. Radeen
    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 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 »
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