Spring crop for Harvest Moon DS

You don't have to be an avid listener of The Archers to know life down on the farm is no longer about ruddy maidens collecting eggs while cider-swilling yokels suck straw between their teeth and talk about shepherds' delight. No, now you're either riding an oil tanker-sized combine harvester for a global agro-chemical concern or chasing pigs while being filmed by a reality TV crew.

And while we're sure Japanese gamemakers Natsume could do something interesting with the modern version, (Harvest Moon DDT anyone?), thankfully it has chosen the more rustic approach when it comes to Harvest Moon DS.

The first version of the long-running sim for Nintendo's handheld, the basic object of the game is to run your own idyllic farm.

Starting out in Forget-Me-Not-Valley, you'll have to learn the right times to plant your various seeds, as well as tending cows, chickens and sheep. Here the DS' touchscreen will be put to good use as you'll use the stylus to interact with the animals, whether washing, shearing or milking them. The better you look after them, the happier they will be, producing more milk, eggs and wool for you to sell.

You'll also have to be a cunning businessman, as you balance the cost of seeds, how much you can sell your harvest for, and how many crops you can grow between spring and autumn. Be careful! Work too hard and you'll get tired and won't have the energy to perform your daily activities.

At least you get some time off during the winter months, and that's where the social aspect of the game comes into play as you get to know the local villagers. Chatting to them will encourage them to give you advice about what to do on the farm. You'll be able to track their movements on the DS' touchscreen too. And if you catch the eye of a special lady, marriage and kids could also be on the cards – but only if you can complete the game.

Because there are misfortunes to overcome. The Witch Princess has used her magic to trap the Harvest Goddess and her handy sprites. Without them, there's won't be any wedding bells, so only by making a success of your farm can you slowly begin to release them. Then, in their gratitude, they'll come and help you.

Originally we hoped to get our hands on Harvest Moon DS before the end of 2006, but it appears the growing season has been extended. The ears of corns are now expected to be ripe during spring 2007.