A couple of difficulties refrain this from being an otherwise brilliant game!
It really looks like Sims 2 castaway...in fact at points it plays like it too and as a matter of fact, the concept is virtually the same.
In a nutshell, In this game you are placed on this exotic, beautiful, relaxing island.
You can explore it, collect items to build objects, play instruments and basically...relax!
This is a very laid back kind of game. It uses real time which adds to the feel of realism.
The graphics are, as another gamespotter pointed out, nothing spectacular coming from a PSP...but what must be said is that the island looks beautiful!
Everything on the island from the sandy beach to the waterfalls to the densly tree populated jungle looks lush and gorgeously 3d.
The character models look a little too blockey shape-wise and their outlines are rather jagged.
Other than that, the frame rate is fairly smooth and they move quite effortlessly...well, almost...that is if you call having to use the directional buttons to move, effortless.
The controls as you can tell, are a bit strange. Not because of having to use the directional buttons, while that too, also because when you want to change direction when moving your character (eg: left) your character will stop running/walking to turn.
This feels very awkward and just gets on your nerves to the point that you may want to quit the game.
There is no music which is a bit of a let down but then again, the sound effects make up for this, such as the sound of the gentle ocean washing up against the shore.
As far as gameplay is concerned...this game appears to have little to offer, but is this the complete truth...?
The answer is no, this is not a typical video game.
Despite that collecting plays quite a prominent role in this game, it really is more of a relaxing game.
One where you can temporarily escape from the real world and rest on a nice island to enjoy the scenery and explore the depths of the dense forests and admire the sound of gentle streams.
Also, less experienced musicians can sure get a kick out of the build in ukeleli minigame.
Basically, You use the analog stick to strum, up or down or play each string if you move it slowly and you use the main buttons (square, circle, triangle and cross) as chords by playing combinations of 2,3 or 4 buttons.
It feels surprisingly authentic and the same goes for the way it sounds!
Summary:
The game is probably not for really hardcore gamers...but then again, nothing is stopping me from recommending this game to everyone.
Yes, There are a couple of difficulties to have with this game such as the annoying controls and the fact that it's in japanese...but this game is perfect for those who start to get bored or feel stressed.
It's a totally relaxing gaming experience and definately worth playing!