Harvest Moon: Back to Nature

The farm simulation series from Natsume makes its debut on the PlayStation with Harvest Moon: Back to Nature. It is the first Harvest Moon game for a non-Nintendo console. With a few rudimentary tools and very little money, you begin the arduous task of reviving your grandfather's farm to take your place as the rightful heir. Players have three years to achieve this goal. A year consists of four seasons, each of which lasts 30 days. Different crops can be grown in each season, but before the seeds can be planted, the land must be cleared and the soil tilled. The seeds also need to be watered until the fruit or vegetables are ripe. As soon as the plants are ready to harvest, they can be placed in a dispatch box where they are collected and paid for. In addition to farming, players interact with the villagers and take part in seasonal events such as the tomato festival and the fireworks display. The more money you earn, the more you can expand your farm and breed livestock such as chickens and cows.