Metascore
81 out of 100

Generally favorable reviews - based on 25 Critics

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 20 out of 25
  2. Negative: 0 out of 25
  1. Definitely stands on the shoulders of the Harvest Moons before it, but it also emerges as a much more polished, balanced, visually enjoyable, and definitive gameplay experience than any title in the series before it.
  2. 92
    A guilty little pleasure. It is easy to pick up and hard to put down. The open-ended gameplay makes for a unique experience for every player.
  3. 92
    The graphics are a big step up from the Game Boy Color editions. With that being said, they are nothing amazing.
  4. It's incredible that a game about farming could be so enthralling. [Jan 2004, p.157]
  5. 89
    A deceptively engrossing game. One that will cause real days to disappear, and true chores to be neglected in favor of a lengthy farming session. It's brilliant in its simplicity, but yet as the days go on there are so many layers that peel away and reveal themselves.
User Score

Universal acclaim- based on 89 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 72 out of 73
  2. Negative: 0 out of 73
  1. Rebecca
    9
    I love this game i just think the time goes by too fast.
  2. BrentC.
    10
    best game because this is just like real life.
  3. Sarah
    10
    I adore this game. Unfortunately a while ago I lost it and couldn't find it but just the other day I found it again, I was sooooooooo happy because I missed enjoying it so much. It is awesome. I recommend this game to anyone that lives on a farm and has enough money to afford a GBA. Lol. I hope that this game never gets a rating below 10 because it is da best man!!! And Woman!!!! Lol Adios amigos and fellow harvesters!!! lol enjoy!! Full Review »