Harvestella (2022)
Game Description:
In Harvestella, a captivating fantasy life simulation RPG by Square Enix, players immerse themselves in a vibrant world where the seasons dictate the rhythm of life. As the protagonist, you cultivate your farm, nurture crops, and forge friendships with the townsfolk. However, the serene cycle of seasons is disrupted by Quietus, the season of death, which threatens all life. Engage in dynamic combat against formidable foes and embark on a quest to uncover the truth behind Quietus. Explore diverse landscapes, from lush forests to arid deserts, and experience the changing seasons' impact on the world. Balance farming, exploration, and combat to restore harmony and protect your newfound home from impending doom.
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What Parents Should Know About Harvestella
Age Rating
Release Date
2022
ESRB Age Rating Summary:
Harvestella is rated T for Teen by the ESRB with Fantasy Violence, Language, and Use of Alcohol. This is a role-playing game in which players follow an amnesiac while developing farmland, completing quests, and forming relationships. From a third-person perspective, players interact with characters, explore dungeons, and engage in melee combat with enemies (e.g., knights, demons, large monsters). Players use swords, rifles, and magic spells/skills to deplete enemies' health meters; battles are highlighted by dwindling hit points, impact sounds, explosions, and occasional gunfire. A handful of cutscenes depict characters shot while on the ground. Some sequences depict characters drinking alcohol and/or hiccupping as if drunk. The word “a*shole” appears in the dialogue.
Content Warnings:
Fantasy Violence, Language, Use of Alcohol
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Parental Notes
While many parents praise the gameplay experience, they caution that Harvestella contains mild profanity, with the word “a*shole” appearing in dialogue. The violence is considered mild, featuring fantasy combat with swords, rifles, and magic against creatures like demons and large monsters. Impact sounds and explosions are present, but the violence is not graphic. Some cutscenes show characters being shot, which may be concerning for younger players. Additionally, the game includes scenes of alcohol use, with characters depicted as drunk. Parents often recommend this game for teens 13 and older due to these elements.
Why Your Kid Might Like Harvestella
Harvestella offers teens an engaging blend of farming, exploration, and combat, making it a hit among those who enjoy a mix of activities in their games. The vibrant world and changing seasons provide a dynamic backdrop that keeps players interested as they manage their farm and interact with the townsfolk. The challenge of balancing these tasks with the need to combat the mysterious Quietus adds a layer of strategy that appeals to those who enjoy thinking ahead and planning their next move.
The game's storyline, centered around uncovering the truth behind Quietus, provides a sense of purpose and adventure that resonates with teens. Exploring diverse landscapes and battling formidable foes offers a sense of accomplishment and progression. The combination of life simulation and RPG elements allows players to experience a variety of gameplay styles, ensuring that there's always something new to discover. While not for everyone, those who enjoy a mix of farming and fantasy adventure find Harvestella to be a rewarding experience.