Happy new year everyone, may all your game wishlist be bought happily this year. Last week, I had a chat with @macchiata about Stardew Valley, and it brought back memories of a similar pixel art game I used to play on my phone. Allow me to reintroduce an enchanting farming-slash-community simulator with gorgeous pixel art Potion Permit.

Officially, this game has actually been released since 22 September 2022, with feature updates and storylines that are updated regularly by the developer. One of the things that makes this game unique and different from other pixel simulator games is the role you play as a doctor who has the main task of providing education and healing city residents who were affected by an accident several decades ago. Let's explore more!

Gameplay

At the beginning of the game you will be a chemist or herbalist as the main plot, a jobdesk that is almost rarely found in farming simulators today. Instead of being a healing expert, you will be a fresh graduate shaman who doesn't have a licence to mix expert medicine, but calmly you have been equipped with the knowledge to diagnose patients.

One of the interesting gameplay offered in this game in my opinion is how to mix the right potion for patients who come to your clinic. Yes, that's right, at the beginning you will be given a tattered clinic that is almost collapsed on the side of the city. Which you can slowly upgrade with money and quest progress.

In general, I think the gameplay is quite solid because you are given the opportunity to explore the forest while collecting many suitable materials to make medicine that you can later give to patients so that they can quickly recover and get better, interestingly you can reject patients and not give medicine or even not examine them at all. However, this will have an impact on the progress of your story.

Materials can be obtained by collecting step plants in the forest area, or can also be obtained from the drop of monsters that you fight in the forest, for this the drop will be random and not all monsters will have the same drop. It's actually one of those collecting, crafting, and curing cycles that's both satisfying and rewarding. Along the way, one of the things I felt was that I could build meaningful connections with the townsfolk, making every task feel personal and worthwhile.

Features and Quests

Potion Permit has many features and a very varied gameplay that makes the gameplay more interesting. One feature that is always available in simulator games like this is the bulletin quest board that will always be updated every day. Each quest feels purposeful and contributes to the overall charm of Moonbury.

Making medicine isn't just drag and drop, there's also an interactive experience where you solve mini-puzzles to combine the right ingredients. I think this mechanic transforms potion-making into a fun and engaging process. Meanwhile, the combat system, while straightforward, adds a sense of adventure to your ingredient-hunting expeditions. You'll dodge and strike in rhythm, keeping the action accessible yet enjoyable.

I don't think a farming simulator like Potion Permit would be complete without the development of relationships with the townsfolk are another standout feature. These quirky, lovable characters each have their own personalities and stories to uncover. Whether you're delivering gifts or completing their special requests, these interactions add depth and warmth to the game. Just like in the real world, when you get to know a person, many stories emerge.

Unique Elements That Keep You Enjoy

1. Captivating Pixel Art: The visual style is a feast for the eyes, blending nostalgic pixel art with modern design elements. Moonbury and its surroundings come alive with intricate details and vibrant colours and are not monotonous, plus when opening a new region in the forest we will be brought into a new season.
2. Crafting as a Puzzle Game: Potion-making isn't just functional-it's a playful and challenging experience. The Tetris-like mechanics of fitting ingredients into a recipe make it feel fresh and engaging.
3. Memorable Townsfolk: Each resident has a unique backstory, and the more you interact with them, the more you'll uncover. Their personalities make Moonbury feel like a real, living community.
4. Loyal Companion: Your loyal dog isn't just a companion; it's an invaluable helper. From sniffing out rare ingredients to providing emotional support, your pet makes every adventure better.

My Final Thought

I think Potion Permit is more than just a game, it's a heartwarming experience. From brewing potions and befriending quirky townsfolk to exploring the beautifully crafted world, there's something magical about every adventure.

While it has its minor flaws, the charm and creativity of the game shine through, making it a standout title for fans of life simulators. If you’re in the mood for a relaxing yet engaging adventure, Potion Permit is a perfect choice to kickstart your year. And don’t forget to give your dog a well-deserved pat on the head, it’s the little things that make life in Moonbury truly special.