If there are two things that go well together in video games, it's love and farming. Most life sim farming titles, from Stardew Valley to My Time at Portia, ask players to cultivate relationships while cultivating the earth. Rune Factory 5, the latest game in the Harvest Moon spinoff franchise, continues this tradition.
Rune Factory 5 has 12 available bachelors and bachelorettes. Not only that but for the first time in series history, players' romance options aren't limited by gender. Everyone is available in every run.
But just like in real life, relationships in Rune Factory 5 can be hard. The player will need to jump through some hoops to tie the knot and start a family.
Preconditions for Marriage
Marriage in Rune Factory 5 is meant to be a late-game event, so starting players shouldn't focus on it. It can only be done once the player has advanced far enough in the story that they've met every possible NPC in Rigbarth, after the campaign's main ending.
Further, they also need a house that can support their new family. Thankfully, Rune Factory 5 has low standards, and all the player needs is a double bed. They can get it at Palmo's shop with the following resources:
- 30,000G
- 40 Stone
- 80 Wood
Lastly, they need an engagement ring. It won't cost players two months' salary, but they will need to pass Rune Factory 5's crafting exam, reach crafting level 20, and then find an ore and gemstone. From there, it's all about wooing the player's paramour.
Falling in Love
In Rune Factory 5, as with most relationships not arranged by political dynasties, dating comes before marriage. Players need to raise their friendship level with their target character to seven by frequently talking to them and giving them their favorite gifts. Rune Factory 5 allows players to date several characters at once, so the indecisive have time to play the field.
Next, the player must go through all of their partner's story events, which will happen naturally as they continue dating. However, players should be careful about keeping track of time, as missing a date can be a setback.
Once the player has gone through three different successful dates, they'll be able to see the relationship's final story event. From there, it's just a matter of making sure the friendship level is at 10, proposing with the ring, and meeting at the pre-arranged spot the next day for the ceremony.
Rune Factory 5 is available now for Switch.