Hardcore Gamer: Listen, we love Harvest Moon. Always have, always will. But unfortunately, over the past several years, one of our favorite series has slid into irrelevance. Story of Seasons — the 3DS Harvest Moon game not actually bearing the “Harvest Moon” title — was fantastic, but it’s been too long now since we’ve had an entry in the famed farming simulator franchise that can stand shoulder to shoulder with the likes of Back to Nature, It’s a Wonderful Life and Magical Melody. Sure, there have been some gems on portable systems, like Friends of Mineral Town for instance, but the more recent 3DS installments have left a lot to be desired.
The confusion around Story of Seasons and Harvest Moon explained.
"Marvelous Europe Limited are today excited to announce that the beloved life simulation and farming franchise STORY OF SEASONS, known as Bokujou Monogatari in Japan and previously known as HARVEST MOON in the west, is celebrating its 25th Anniversary this month." - Marvelous Europe.
Pioneers of Olive Town has some striking differences that expand upon gameplay, but also several subtler alterations that make it just that bit smoother to play.