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Review of Rune Factory 3 Special on Nintendo Switch, Windows

by Gemma Looksby Gemma Looksby photo Sep 2023
Cover image of Rune Factory 3 Special on Switch
Gamefings Score: 8.5
Platform: Switch Switch logo
Released: 05 Sep 2023
Genre: Simulation Role-playing
Developer: Neverland
Publisher: Marvelous Entertainment, Natsume, Rising Star Games

Introduction

Hey there, farmhands and adventurers! Ever wanted to be a bipedal sheep-monster who saves the world while also cultivating cabbages? Well, saddle up because 'Rune Factory 3 Special' is back to give you those dreams, and it's sweeter than grandma's apple pie! This remaster sprouted from the roots of the 2009 Nintendo DS gem and is now back to charm the socks off newbies and returning fans alike.

Gameplay

Let's talk gameplay, shall we? In 'Rune Factory 3 Special,' your character, Micah-who can indeed be a golden sheep-like monster (because why not?)-is dropped into the quaint village of Sharance. Your farm's life starts off as a casual chaos of planting crops, raising adorable creatures, and flirting with villagers (who happen to have more drama than your favorite soap opera). This version didn't just sit on its plush pastures; it revamped the AI, allowing villagers to roam around like they own the place while also thinking a bit more critically about their day plans. Yup, your farm buddies are now less like mindless walking NPCs and more like socially adept beings who can actually hold a decent conversation about the local gossip-who knew gossip could be such an important crop? There's also a snazzy new multiplayer mode that lets friends join in the farming and dungeon-hunting fun. Why tackle those challenging dungeons alone when you can drag your best friends into the fray? These comrades-in-arms can help gather rarer items and battle some seriously weird monsters. Imagine fighting a giant, undead cabbage while your buddy distracts it with catchy farm-themed music! Trust me, it's not as unlikely as it seems. But wait, there's more! You get to transform into a Wooly. That's right, your farm-slaying, growth-boosting avatar can go from a handsome farmboy to a fluffball brimming with cuteness. This not only serves as an impressive icebreaker at parties (who doesn't want a critter-friend?), but also adds a unique strategic angle to battles. It's like Pokémon meets farming simulator, and yes, that's the only way I'm describing it! And let's not forget about the plot, which could easily be an adventure novel in itself. Micah uncovers mysteries, befriends strange creatures, and does that classic 'save the world' stuff while navigating love interests. Spoiler alert: You might even end up married and start a family. Nothing like a little farming drama at the altar, right? So, get your watering cans ready because the crops aren't the only things you're going to be nurturing in this game!

Graphics

Graphically, 'Rune Factory 3 Special' may not be pushing the boundaries of modern gaming, but it's got a charm that feels like a warm hug from a cozy, animated pillow. The environments are lush and colorful, with adorable character designs that will make your heart go a million miles an hour just from looking at them for too long. While it may not scream next-gen graphics, it successfully evokes nostalgia and brings a smile (kind of like finding out your favorite childhood candy is back on the shelves). There are adorable animations, bright visuals, and delightful effects that make the simple act of watering plants look magical! Seriously, watching those seeds sprout is like witnessing the birth of tiny green superheroes.

Conclusion

In conclusion, 'Rune Factory 3 Special' stands tall as a vibrant homage to its predecessor, infusing classic farming sim elements with monster-slaying excitement. It's not just about growing food (although that's super fun); it's about growing friendships, uncovering tales of yore, and dealing with the occasional villain who thinks giant veggies are a path to domination (because who could resist giant veggies?). With a cute art style, engaging gameplay, and quality-of-life improvements that'll ensure you spend countless hours farming-uh, I mean saving the world-it's worth every bit of your time. Harvest your joy, win over those villagers, and plunge into dungeons of delight! Whether you fancy a deep dive into the farming life, a quest for romantic endeavors, or just smashing through some dungeon trash, 'Rune Factory 3 Special' has got your back. Now, excuse me while I go cuddle my Wooly.

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