Harvest Moon Back to Nature is a farming simulation game developed by Victor Interactive Software and published by Natsume for the Sony PlayStation in the United States. The title was released in 2000 and later added to iOctavio.com on November 18 2002. It was originally categorized as a role playing game and placed within the role playing game genre to help locate the correct entry in web searches. In the game the player assumes the role of a young farmer who inherits a neglected farm in the village of Mineral Town. Core gameplay revolves around cultivating crops raising livestock mining for ores fishing foraging and building relationships with the townspeople. Seasonal cycles dictate which crops can be planted and which festivals occur throughout the year. Players can upgrade tools expand the farmhouse and unlock new areas such as the mine and the beach. Social interactions include giving gifts attending festivals and eventually marrying one of several eligible bachelors or bachelorettes which leads to a family and a child that can assist on the farm. The game features a day night cycle a stamina system and a calendar that tracks time and events. Highlights include deep and rewarding farming mechanics a charming pixel art style a memorable soundtrack composed by Yasuhiro Wada a diverse cast of characters each with unique schedules and dialogue the freedom to pursue different playstyles such as focusing on mining fishing or relationships and long term progression that encourages multiple playthroughs. The title is often praised for its relaxing pace its sense of community and its influence on later entries in the series.