Harvest Moon Tree of Tranquility
SCORE: 64
As everyone knows, I'm a big Harvest Moon fan. It goes without saying I was very, very excited to finally get my hands on Harvest Moon: Tree of Tranquility for the Nintendo Wii. A few things before we get started. Harvest Moon games and Natsume games in general have a history of their games using a "Goddess" like character in their titles. Harvest Moon: Tree of Tranquility continues the trend. Secondly, Harvest Moon games differ greatly in the overall production of each title. I can honestly say I was surprised how well this title plays. Thirdly, I hope you like playing in dirt because we're going deep.
Graphically, the game is beautiful. While it's not what the Wii can exactly push out (see Super Mario Galaxy), the game still looks and feels very nice. Character models and environments are detailed greatly. Water detail is nice and the camera gives you a view of the sunny sky. Unfortunately, the game experiences lags and slowdown. It really does plague the gameplay. There is a church in the village with stained glass of the Harvest Goddess. There are also alcoholic drinks in the game. No characters are seen drunk. Other than that, no offensive images were shown.
The music is also a directional change from past Harvest Moon games. I can't really say it's a drastic change from the series more than it is "different". I like the change Natsume took. Each song represents the season well. It's nice. As far as voice acting, the only voices are the boy or girl you play. No offensive sounds were made.
Gameplay will keep the player busy, busy, BUSY! As usual, Harvest Moon (like all other games in the series) is a great lesson in responsibility. Harvesting crops, taking care of livestock, fishing, mining, and other activities necessary for income is vital for your survival. There is a lot to do on Waffle Island, so you better get busy! There are two different control styles. You can use the Nunchuck attachment for motion control and the Classic controller for a more retro style of gameplay. You can also marry a male or female of your choice, depending on the gender you choose at the beginning of the game. You will then start a family.
As it turns out, the Great Tree that once gave the island life has
died. The Harvest Goddess is in dire need of your help. You'll find
Harvest Sprites to help you along the way. The Harvest Goddess and
alcohol plague this game, but if players can get past it then it truly
does shine as a gem in the series. Harvest Moon: Tree of Tranquility is
one of the most cinematic and heartwarming games in the series. The game
teaches values of hard work and dedication to whatever you're doing. The
general idea of Harvest Moon is that if something dies, we shouldn't
despair. All we need to do is pick ourselves up and try again. Families
can enjoy this game together, but a basic reading ability is needed to
fully enjoy the game.
- Classic Tyler
Graphics: 70%
Sound: 60%
Replay/Extras: 70%
Gameplay: 70%
Family Friendly Factor: 50%
System: Wii
Publisher: Natsume
Rating: 'E'
for Everyone
{Alcohol Reference, Comic Mischief}
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