>>147034205I think I have such fond memories of Harvest Moon 64, and indeed the entire HV franchise, because of the time I spent with the game in my early youth.
I had never really played a game prior to it that featured relationships, at least in regards to it being something you chose and cultivated, rather than another feature of the plot. You have to understand that for an introverted, overweight, lovesick kid, this was a pretty easy concept to get caught up in. Karen was the only girl in that town who caught my interest. I think it was because she reminded me of the girl I was smitten with at the time. Rough exterior, distant and oftentimes antagonistic. Even the rough home life matched.
You can guess how the similarities struck a chord with me, and why I decided that I wanted to win her over. After all, the girl I liked wouldn't be interested in me, but maybe I could at least make it work in this game. I think it's because I poured so much of myself into that "relationship" that I remember the game with such fond thoughts. Sitting alone on the beach with her, away from the crowds, that one in particular I always liked the most. I guess it's because it's what I wanted.
First waifu. Only waifu.