by Kimberlee F Ferrell

Created on: July 25, 2008   Last Updated: August 09, 2008

Virtual Farm is a fast paced simulation game, in which you are an aspiring farmer. Your first crop, which is grass, must be watered, harvested, and taken to market to be sold at a fair price as demand varies. As the game progresses, you are given new seeds to plant, a shovel to till over your existing crops to plant your new seeds, and expansions to your area of land. As demand for grass drops, you are given the opportunity to build a cow barn to convert your grass to milk. You are also given goals, when customers are willing to give a high price for your crop if you can supply it within the time allotted.

Gameplay is simple at first, with step-by-step tutorial bubbles popping up to guide you along your way. As your crop grows, gameplay gets faster, and thoroughly engages you as you keep up with the marketplace's demands. Simple controls with increasing challenges makes for a fun game, and Virtual Farm fits the bill.

The graphics are cute and fun, targeted for a young audience. They could use a bit of polish, but they are well done. It is very clear what you are clicking on, and there is no confusion. The cartoonish visual appeal was very enjoyable. Also, when your crop needed water, a water droplet would appear, and when it needed to be harvested, a gold star would arise. These little touches greatly added to the gameplay.

The sound was about what you would expect from a downloaded game. It was pleasant and fun, but nothing exceptional. It was a pleasure to listen to, but turning on your iPod would be just as entertaining.

Virtual Farm is a very cute idea, that has in fact been seen before. Multiple games have been made in which you have to grow crops and sell them. The innovation of Virtual Farm is that it is made for those looking for a simple, fun time, not for those who want to rule the world and take over the neighboring farmers' fields. In this regard, it is a creative game, taking a laidback approach to an often done idea. It has succeeded very well.

Overall, Virtual Farm has earned 4 out of 5 stars. For a download, it is worth the investment, especially if this type of game is one of interest. By all means, download the free trial and give it a try. You will not be disappointed.

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