Rune Factory 3 Special Review (Guugs, the silent but deadly)
First off, this game is NOT worth it full price, especially since RF4 Special is also on Steam for A LOT cheaper. If you have never played RF3, I recommend skipping this and getting 4, considering that RF3 Special is literally a 1-1 adaptation of the NDS game, so is missing a lot of the additions that 4 added, such as a dedicated teleport keybind (you have to equip escape to one of your two magic slots), no Prince Points, only one monster barn, etc etc. It's also pretty short especially compared to 4, so you're not getting your bang for your buck. Skip it unless you want an inferior RF4.
ON THE OTHER HAND
This game was made for only one target audience as far as I am concerned. People who have had the pleasure of experience the original RF3 on the DS during their childhoods/teenage years and want to experience the magic again. I am up to the Unity Festival (Sorry, the Amity Festival now) arc and so far it has been very loyal mechanics wise.
I also know that the dialogue and VA change is a bit controversial with the community, but I personally find the dialogue changes alright, and the VA direction I have noticed, having dabbled with the Undubbed ROM of the original before, seems like they were mostly leaning towards the Japanese performances as inspiration. Other than a few of them being a bit off to me, like Raven, Marjorie, Wells, and God help us all Daria, I have no real complaints.
The price will be a massive dealbreaker for most though, and the Deluxe Edition is pretty much not worth it unless you want to see fanservice. (Though the thought of everyone in swimsuits during winter is a concept I CAN'T not do just once).
Oh, and unlike 4 and 5, the port is actually good. No issues that I have noticed that is.
One final warning, however, the plot REQUIRES your character to get married, but I'm sure most of us already knew that.
Overall, good game, forced marriage in plot, a nostalgia trip for some and a half-decent if overpriced introduction to the incredibly magical world of Rune Factory.
9/10 for returning players, 7/10 for new players
Also Carmen is best waifu don't @ me