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Jan 4, 2020
After much enthusiasm of late, it seems necessary to take a stand to see more Magicians Quest in the West.
After such a huge response from the community, it seems that now is the time for action. Having only gotten to play Magicians Quest: Mysterious Times on the Nintendo DS, and none of the sequels, we must stand together to see that our magical adventures continue right here, in our home hemisphere. With enough support, it is possible that we may just get to see Magicians Quest on the new cool platform on the block, the Nintendo Switch. It is never too late!
What is Magicians Quest: Mysterious Times?
Described as a cross between Harry Potter and Animal Crossing, Magicians Quest: Mysterious Times originally released in Japan on Nov 12th of 2008, and finally made its way west on May 11th, 2009. The game was released on the Nintendo DS, as were its sequels, although the sequels were only ever released in Japan.
Pretty much the only real criticism that the game received was that the game could be a bit confusing at times. Also, some people thought that it bore too close a semblance to Animal Crossing, and was a near blatant ripoff. Although, it seems to me that it is just its own beautiful game, with a few features that Animal Crossing has never had.
However, mislabeling as a ripoff did not stop the popularity of the game. As previously mentioned, the game spawned three more titles that never saw their way west. It seems a real shame that ought to be corrected.
Magicians Quest Preview
The gameplay in Magicians Quest is pretty expansive, from character customization to being in relationships, this game has it all. You can even start a band with the other villagers, if you so choose. There is never a shortage of relaxing and fun things to do in Mysterious Times.
For those that never tried Mysterious Times.
Remember, this game came to the west over ten years ago and was released on a platform that is no longer in production. However, there are still ways to get your hands on this title today, as well as the Nintendo DS console. You can easily purchase the game online through GameStop (pre-owned $19.99), Amazon (pre-owned $87.95) or Ebay (pre-owned $70.00). As for the Nintendo DS, you can still find refurbished versions of the console on Amazon as well.
Help bring more Magicians Quest to the west.
The ultimate goal would be to band together to get Konami to make an all new Magicians Quest and have it release on the Nintendo Switch here in the west. However, I really wouldn’t mind just seeing the game ported to Switch, and have English versions of the sequels come to Nintendo Switch as well. With enough support from the community, we can at least start the conversation and plant the seed.
The first steps have already been taken by you! The clamor of the fans inspired the creation of this petition. You can now be a part of this change and sign the petition to have more Magicians Quest games available in the Western Hemisphere. If we all join together, we can convince Konami to do what is right. Get them to listen to the fans. Whether a new game, translated/ported sequels, or just planting the idea, we can just a step further to do our part to make this change in the world.
Go even further by clicking here to sign the petition!
- Jan 1, 2020
Games like Magicians Quest Mysterious Times are the perfect way to almost scratch that Animal Crossing itch.
While Animal Crossing will always be the go to game when it comes to relaxing in a beautiful life sim world. But sometimes it can be nice to get out from under that crushing bell debt and give some other cute games a try. I have assembled a small list of games that scratch a similar itch to that of Animal Crossing.
Magicians Quest: Mysterious Times
Magicians Quest: Mysterious Times is a life sim that very closely resembles Animal Crossing in the art style. The goal of the game is to become a master magician by learning and practicing a variety of spells and incantations. Often described as Harry Potter meets Animal Crossing, Mysterious Times was released in May of 2009 for the Nintendo DS.
There have been three sequels made, but were only released in Japan. The games also happen to use the DS’s internal clock, so the player will encounter time-sensitive quests and events. Sound familiar? To get your hands on this one, you may have to use eBay or Amazon, and it might cost you a pretty penny. If you do some searching, you can probably still find a copy for reasonable price, as the game is becoming kind of rare.
MySims
MySims is what happened when EA decided that they’d like to make a game as similar to Animal Crossing as they could. As per usual, the goal of MySims is build up a town that is in desperate need of some repair. Customize your character, then go about your days making your town as cool or crazy as you like.
With tons of customizations for your character as well as your buildings and even furniture, MySims is one cute game that is definitely worth a peek. You can buy it through Origin for $19.99. However, it should be noted that the game is a bit old, and the online capabilities have already been disabled.
Castaway Paradise
For a game that was basically made to be a copy of Animal Crossing, Castaway Paradise is certainly cute and fun. But it’s not Animal Crossing. The game does take place on a tropical island, which makes it great practice for New Horizons. The graphics are almost voxel, and the color scheme is fun and vibrant.
Spend your time decorating your island, or do some farming for those ono grinds (Hawaiian for yummy food). Cataway Paradise is available on mobile devices, as well as PC, XboxOne and PS4. For more information on the game, as well as the chance to buy it for yourself, check out the official website.
My Tamagotchi Forever
My Tamagotchi Forever is an adorable take on the original principle of the Tamagotchi. Taking a first glance at the game, Animal Crossing fans will notice that the actual Tamagotchi pets look like something you would meet in the world of Animal Crossing. But this time around My Tamagotchi Forever packs a lot more features and activities to do.
While these two games are entirely different, there are some similarities, and it seems as if Bandai Namco tried to capture the spirit and cuteness of Animal Crossing in their latest mobile game. My Tamagotchi Forever is a free-to-play mobile game, and is available on iOS and Android.
Ooblets
Ooblets is an adorable life sim farming game with a touch of creature collection. The creatures that you “collect” (actually you have to grow them yourself) are called Ooblets, and they love to dance. They are the most adorable little squishy creatures that jump at the opportunity to do your bidding. Use Ooblets to help with your day to day activities, as well as exploring and manipulating the world around you. More info.
Cozy Grove
If you have ever played Don’t Starve you will most likely be very familiar with the concept of Cozy Grove. For the ones who haven’t – much like in Don’t Starve – a survival game as the title already gives away, In Cozy Grove you will find yourself on a haunted island and you will be tasked to bring color back to it. The haunted island may appear empty and overtaken by florals but as you continue to explore and gather resources you will quickly begin to build up a new camp on the deserted and remote place and breath some life back into it. More info.
What is your favorite Animal Crossing inspired game? Let me know in the comments below!
- Dec 31, 2019
It’s already a new year and we’re off to a good start with some wholesome games releasing in January 2020. I’m still keeping on eye on games that haven’t been officially announced with a specific date but will be coming out sometime during the winter such as Garden Paws (Switch version) and Rune Factory 4 Special. For now, take a look at the games releasing soon and let us know what you’re most excited to play!
Cook, Serve, Delicious! 3!? – January 2020
The first Cook, Serve, Delicious! game came to PC and mobile devices in 2013. Selling more than a million copies, it was more than popular enough to warrant a sequel. Cook, Serve, Delicious! 2 was released for PC, Switch, PS4 and Xbox One, as well as Mac and Linux. Now a third entry into the series will be releasing on Steam Early Access in January 2020.
Mythic Ocean – January 9th, 2020
This wonderful adventure under the sea about building relationships and making choices that will change the fate of all of creation was created by indie developer Paralune. Mythic Ocean has a free demo now and will be releasing on Steam on January 9th, 2020.
Bunny Park – January 14th, 2020
Bunny Park is a small little simulation game from creator of Alchemy Story, Éloïse Laroche. Expand and decorate your park, and collect and take care of various bunnies! The game will be releasing on Steam on January 14th, 2020 for a very inexpensive price!
Temtem – January 21st, 2020
Become the best Temtem tamer and explore the six islands of the Airborne Archipelago! This creature-collecting MMO, created by Crema, will be available in Early Access January 21st, 2020 on Steam and Humble Bundle.
Coffee Talk – January 29th, 2020
Coffee Talk is a casual talking simulation game developed by Toge Productions. This game caught my eye in early development due to your customers being fantasy characters! Now, not only do we know that Coffee Talk will be releasing January 29th, 2020, but that it will also release simultaneously on PC, Switch, PS4, and Xbox One!
You can catch up with last month’s game releases with this article here: Most Wholesome Game Releases in December.
- Dec 28, 2019
Before we reach the beginning of 2020, I’ve been taking a look back on all the games I have played and reviewed thus far. I’ve shared with you some of my favorite farming sims here and multiplayer games here., and have considered what other genres that I gravitate toward and that are the most wholesome. Today, I’ll be closing off the end of the year with a list of management/tycoon games that I’ve played the most in 2019. Whether it’s designing and managing a theme park, restaurant or clothing store, I just can’t get enough of creating and building, and making customers happy!
Megaquarium
Megaquarium is ranked in my top 3 most hours played on my Nintendo Switch this year because it is one of those games I just want to perfect. Gaining more and more Prestige with your aquarium parks allows you to buy better tools, equipment, items and fish! I’ve even laid out some advanced tips for the game because you must strategize and manage the species in your tanks, as compatibility and visibility are key to success.
Planet Zoo
Planet Zoo released on Steam last month and the graphics and details are everything I’d hoped they’d be. It does have a steep learning curve and you need to have quite the level of creativity and imagination, but it may just be the tycoon game for you if you love in-depth management and design choices. Frontier Developments also hosts online challenges on a regular basis to keep things interesting.
Two Point Hospital
I may be cheating a little by putting this one on my list because it released on PC in 2018, however there have been new DLCs this year (Close Encounters) and console versions will be coming in 2020. Once you have completed your main campaign goals in each level, you can still continue to reach 3 stars and watch the fruits of your labor. This cheeky hospital management game has unique illnesses, patients and treatments that make the gameplay just all the more fun.
Pocket Clothier
If you’re looking for an adorable clothing management game that can be played in small doses but is also addictive, this is for you. You can place various stands/shelves and choose the style of clothing to stock, hire staff, decorate with fixtures, and more! This game was released a little while ago on mobile for under $5 which means there aren’t any micro-transactions. I’ve added this to my 2019 list because it is now available on the Nintendo eShop (since September) for only $12! Pocket Clothier is worth the price and a great game to play on-the-go.
There are so many other management games coming in the new year that have already been added to my wishlist and include the following: Mondo Museum (creators of Boyfriend Dungeon), Onsen Master, Rolling Hills, Creature Resort and more! Here’s to wishing you a Happy Gaming New Year!
- Dec 28, 2019
New to Nintendo Switch? Then maybe you’d like to try out some cute games before you buy them!
As a Nintendo Switch owner myself, I have to say that there is certainly no shortage of adorable video games currently available for this console. Not only that, but it happens to be the new home for one of the greatest franchises of all time, Animal Crossing! But that one is not quite ready yet.
But, if you need some really cute games to tide you over until 3/20/20, then Nintendo has got you covered. And if you’re like me, you would prolly totally be into trying a few games before you make the big step of actually spending money on it. Once again, Nintendo has got you covered.
There is a whole category on the Nintendo website that has many great games with playable demos currently available. But who wants to go through a whole list of crazy games just to find the cute ones! This time, I got you covered. I sorted through and found some that are super cute, and would fit right at home in any budding games library.
Yoshi’s Crafted World
Yoshi’s Crafted World is a side-scrolling platform game developed by Good-Feel and published by Nintendo for the Nintendo Switch. The theme of the game is that everything looks like cardboard. It looks like a child made an arts and crafts project and it’s visually stunning. This is like how the previous title, Yoshi’s Woolly World, was made to look like a world of wool. The adorable Yoshis are now back with their “ho-hum” and oh-so-cute licking sound effects and all. More info here.
Link to playable demo for Yoshi’s Crafted World!Pokemon Let’s Go Pikachu and Let’s Go Eevee
“Inspired by Pokémon Yellow, which was originally released on Nintendo’s Game Boy in 1999, these two titles are designed for players taking their first steps into the Pokémon video game world. Featuring an innovative connection to the popular Pokémon GO mobile game, Pokémon: Let’s Go, Pikachu! and Pokémon: Let’s Go, Eevee! promise plenty of enjoyment for both newcomers to the franchise and experienced players.” More info here.
Link to playable demo for Pokemon Let’s Go Pikachu
Link to playable demo for Pokemon Let’s Go EeveeDragon Quest Builders 2
Dragon Quest Builders 2 For the ones who aren’t familiar with the series, Dragon Quest Builders 2 is a game all about exploring, questing and building. A recent trailer focused on the latter and showcased the amazing multiplayer capabilities of the game. A total of four Players will be able to team up and start creating their own tiny world. You will be bale to harvest recourses and create whatever you wish to build. From huge castles, to working mine carts and just so much more. Your creativity sets the boundaries in this visually pleasing game. More info here.
Link to playable demo of Dragon Quest Builders 2Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker
“Captain Toad stars in his own puzzling quest on the Nintendo Switch™ system! Our stubby hero must dodge dangers and track treasures across many trap-filled courses. Survive smoldering volcanoes, hazardous steam engines, haunted houses, and even new courses based on the Super Mario Odyssey™ game! Luckily, a second player can join in by tossing turnips at enemies.”
Link to playable demo for Captain Toad: Treasure TrackerKirby Star Allies
The game is all about giving enemies hearts and turning them into friends. You can have three other characters help you through levels and defeat bosses. You can combine copy abilities with these characters that have joined you, as well as transforming into things like a Friend Bridge, Friend Train, and Friend Star to make your way through the game! You can choose to play single player with up to 3 CPU or 4 player co-op with friends! You can also take on different mini games with friends too! More info here.
Link to playable demo of Kirby Star Allies.New Super Lucky’s Tale
Looking a little like a mix between Conker and Spyro, Super Lucky’s Tale is a darling title is full of adventure and heart. You are set on a journey to help your sister protect the Book of Ages, a great book that contains entire worlds. The gameplay has been compared to that of Super Mario 64, and has delightful graphics that make the whimsical plot that much more fun. More info here!
Link to playable demo of Super Lucky’s TaleAutomachef
Robert Person is the name of the robot…we mean human…that will guide you and offer you help throughout the levels. You can choose from dozens of different machines to build your automatic kitchen in exactly the way you want. For example, conveyor belts, robotic arms, splitters, computers, gates and much more! Automachef features computers you can program in assembly code, or using a simple visual editor, to make other machines, such as robotic arms or ingredients dispensers. More info here!
Link to playable demo of Automachef.Well, these are definitely the cutest games with playable demos in the Nintendo eShop right now. I hope this list helps you find the perfect game for your new console.
- Dec 28, 2019
It was reported that Santa has been beyond generous as many people have found a brand new Nintendo Switch under their Christmas tree this year. If you are one of the lucky ones and/or a longtime proud owner you might enjoy some of these adorable accessories to make your console stand out!
Nintendo Switch accessories are widely available from thumbstick grips, to screen protectors, cases and more – options are endless. I have handpicked some of the ones I have used and enjoyed the most and believe to be the perfect Nintendo Switch Starter Kit!
Nintendo Switch Joy-Con Paw Grip
You can stick these right on the Joy-Con thumbstick and not only do they provide a better grip but they also look super cute and come in many different colors!
You can grab them on Amazon right here.
Nintendo Switch Paw Case
If you want to paw out completely you can get the matching case for the adorable paw print Joy-Con grip above!
They are available for Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch Lite.
Pastel Everywhere!
If you want to adjust the color of your Nintendo Switch Joy-Con a little bit, you can grab these adorable Pastel Colored plates to make your Switch as unique as can be!
Nintendo Switch Memory Card
With so many amazing Nintendo Switch Games already available and even more titles on the way, you will quickly run out of the internal space. Once Animal Crossing Switch comes out, you will want to make sure it’s installed on your Switch so you can start it up anytime, anywhere, and never have to close it out again – ever! This officially licensed memory card with a totally adorable Toad on it is currently on sale!
Nintendo Switch Screen Protector
This might sound like a less interesting accessory but the Nintendo Switch screen is actually not glass so it is prone to scratching rather easily. If you’d like to keep your Switch screen looking shiny and glossy as long as possible you should grab a screen protector.
Get this one for Nintendo Switch and this one for Nintendo Switch Lite.
Charging Stand for Nintendo Switch
This stand is also excellent for the gamer on the go. Take it anywhere to keep your Switch in an upright and gaming position for random gaming sessions anywhere. Not mention that it will also charge will game. So there’s that. Perfect for desks and tables, cozying up on the couch, or generally anywhere that you’re not going to be connecting to a T.V.
Physical Game Cartridge Case
I am a little old fashioned and enjoy buying physical copies of games but it can be a bit combersome when traveling to take all the games with you. This case from UniKeep actually allows you to store 60 games in one handy package!
- Dec 27, 2019
I had a chance to look back at all of the games I’ve reviewed this year and started off with the Most Wholesome Farming Sims of 2019. There have been some great first-party Nintendo Switch games as well as so many great indie gems I had the chance to play thanks to all the amazing indie developers and publishers! Below is a list of games I’ve played the most that are both online and local multiplayer, which you can play with family and friends during the holidays!
Luigi’s Mansion 3
It’s been really great that Nintendo has been adding a cooperative feature to their latest games and Luigi’s Mansion 3 was a wonderful surprise with the addition of Gooigi. This game is so much more fun with another player and adds some unique puzzles and maximum vacuum power! Want to play with even more players? You can do so with 8 others online or locally with ScareScraper and ScreamPark modes.
Unravel Two
Unravel Two technically released for the first time on PC, PS4 and Xbox One back in late 2018. However, I played it upon its March 2019 release on the Nintendo Switch. It’s only a 2-player game but with features like PlayStation’s Share Play and Steam’s Remote Play Together, you can play locally or online. This game has the highest review score I have ever given for its fantastic physics-based mechanics and cooperative play when it comes to platforming and solving puzzles!
Tools Up!
I’ve only had this game on the Nintendo Switch for a short while but I still find myself thinking about it foundly and hoping for some DLC or extra levels. Play up to 4 players on local co-op and renovate homes according to the blueprints! Much like Overcooked, it can be chaotic but extremely rewarding when you perfect your coordination. It’s available for Steam’s Remote Play so you can play online with friends.
ToeJam & Earl: Back in the Groove
This remastered classic is just as silly and laid-back as ever now on PC and all major consoles. Play this locally with 2 players or online with 4 players if you want something a bit more relaxing and without puzzles. I recommend ToeJam & Earl: Back in the Groove for younger kids to play this holiday season!
Of course, all of those games mentioned above are the games I had a chance to play in 2019. There are still so many cute wholesome games available now, and more multiplayer games to look forward to in 2020 like Trash Sailors, Pile Up!, and Grabimals. Stay tuned for more reminiscing!
- Dec 26, 2019
Give a friend a personal gift with a touch of Animal Crossing with this themed letter set.
The myPotatoGames workshop is in full swing, and I just can’t make enough Animal Crossing themed goodies for all my fellow Animal Crossing lovers. After the popularity of the holiday card set, and seeing how much everyone loved them, I wanted to offer something similar that can be given throughout the year.
Now, you can give your friends the gift of a personal message with an Animal Crossing theme. This letter includes everything you need to send the most adorable and heartfelt message to whoever you please. The set comes with an envelope, a small card for writing your message, a small strip of stickers to decorate or include as a gift, and a single sticker of Isabelle’s face to seal the envelope.
How to get your Animal Crossing Themed Letter Set!
Now you can tell someone just how much you care, and even add some Animal Crossing flare. If you would like to get your hands on this wholesome gift, just click here to get it now!
More Animal Crossing Merch
For more awesome Animal Crossing merch, check out my Animal Crossing Bell Bag gift set.
