Harvest Moon DS Cute Review for the Nintendo DS (NDS)

System: DS	Review Rating Legend
Dev: Natsume	1.0 - 1.9 = Avoid	4.0 - 4.4 = Great
Pub: Natsume	2.0 - 2.4 = Poor	4.5 - 4.9 = Must Buy
Release: March 25, 2008	2.5 - 2.9 = Average	5.0 = The Best
Players: 1	3.0 - 3.4 = Fair
ESRB Rating: Everyone	3.5 - 3.9 = Good

Harvest Moon DS Cute screenshot

Generally it has been my experience that the button-stylus jiggle never really works, and Harvest Moon DS Cute relies on this. Almost any action you take in the game relies on you pressing buttons AND using the stylus. This gets really agitating after a while because actions end up taking much longer than they have to, and anyone who plays the Harvest Moon series knows that time is extremely valuable. The flawed control scheme is probably the most aggravating aspect of the game, and I believe that this title would be improved exponentially if the control scheme were fixed.

One aspect of Harvest Moon DS Cute that I definitely take issue with, and definitely did expect more from, is the control. When developers make great games for the Nintendo DS, there are generally two ways they configure the control: either with only the stylus or only buttons. There are a few games that break these control schemes effectively, but I find that these are the exception rather than the rule. Generally it has been my experience that the button-stylus jiggle never really works, and Harvest Moon DS Cute relies on this. Almost any action you take in the game relies on you pressing buttons AND using the stylus. This gets really agitating after a while because actions end up taking much longer than they have to, and anyone who plays the Harvest Moon series knows that time is extremely valuable. The flawed control scheme is probably the most aggravating aspect of the game, and I believe that this title would be improved exponentially if the control scheme were fixed.

Although it has more than a few snags in the technical department, Harvest Moon DS Cute still has a good amount of appeal, especially for die-hard fans of the series. In addition to the gameplay, which favors a pre-existing knowledge of all things Harvest Moon, longtime fans of the series will also be privy to several extras that are unlocked if you still own either of the GameBoy Advance Harvest Moon titles. In addition to more challenges, popping in the vintage game carts will also open up new suitors in the game, which is definitely a good thing if you're like me and like to keep your suitor options as wide open as possible!

Harvest Moon DS Cute definitely doesn't reinvent the wheel. It still retains the same farming-type gameplay that nearly every Harvest Moon title has, but if you're expecting something other than farming from a Harvest Moon title, then you have been misinformed. Harvest Moon DS Cute is a simple but engaging title that will pull you right back in to the farming lifestyle, and if you're like me you'll find yourself addicted all over again in no time!

By Amanda L. Kondolojy
CCC Freelance Writer

RATING OUT OF 5

RATING DESCRIPTION

3.0

Graphics
Pretty standard sprite graphics don't really look bad, but they are far from outstanding.

2.5

Control
The stylus and button fumble get a little confusing, and the controls definitely could have been streamlined.

3.0

Music / Sound FX / Voice Acting
Music is largely generic and non-descript. No voiceovers are present, and sound effects are minimal.

4.0

Play Value
If you can't get enough of Harvest Moon or this is your first Harvest Moon title, you will have loads of fun. But if you're looking for something different, Harvest Moon Cute does little to switch up the formula.

3.5

Overall Rating - Good
Not an average. See Rating legend above for a final score breakdown.

Game Features:

Raise Cows, Sheep, Chickens, and Ducks!

Plant and grow a variety of crops and trees!

Change you clothes and decorate the interior of your house!