The first Harvest Moon game for the PS2 takes a little deviance from all the other games in the series. The goal this time around is to save your town from being turned into a resort next year. The game focuses more on relationships than making money - which is the goal in all other Harvest Moon games to date. You still are running a farm and must succeed in the life of a farmer, but the actual gameplay rewards those who interact with the townspeople over those who just work the fields.

"Your goal is to successfully save your family's farm and the surrounding village from being turned into a resort. Construction begins in a year, so you have your work cut out for you! But don't worry, if you earn the friendship and trust of the villagers they will be sure to lend a helping hand. Remember...It's up to you to SAVE THE HOMELAND!"