Rune Factory 2

>> Initial Impressions

Video games certainly open up a realm of possibilities to us all. Be a hero slaying a fierce dragon to save a kingdom. Combat a conspiracy with nothing but your wits (and enough weapons to start a war). Rise to the tops of the rock charts regardless of actual musical talent.

In light of all these farming may seem like one of the least enjoyable activities to replicate, but that's exactly what the Harvest Moon series brings. These games have come a long way and now we have the Rune Factory offshoot. The key elements of the series are still here but now find themselves mixed with more noticeable RPG mechanics for a fresher take on the otherwise niche genre.

From the wonderful anime style opener the greets you when you turn the game on it's easy to see that the game is quite pretty. The game...

THE GOOD:
~Improved graphics make the game look much more polished, and they look much more natural.
~The plot, although it is in part a rehash of the first RF's plot, is interesting and a pleasure to follow.
~The characters are every bit as lovable as they were in the first game.
~Nicely themed areas with more detail make exploring more interesting.
~Since you also play as your child in this game, it is a lot longer than its predecessor.
~More multiplayer modes are featured in this game.
~The bulletin board feature is fun to use and helps you raise your friendship levels with the townsfolk easily.

THE BAD:
~The game might seem too tedious to some players, as there is often not much to do between major tasks.
~The game lags at critical points, which is extremely frustrating and a disappointment compared to the first game.
~You must use a certain multiplayer location for each activity, which is a bit unnecessary.