Potion Permit

Potion Permit is a cozy, relaxing game set in the town of Moonbury where players take on the role of a chemist tasked with diagnosing and treating patients through potion-making. The game features charming, comforting graphics and a gentle soundtrack that create an inviting atmosphere. Players enjoy exploring the town, building relationships with villagers, and engaging in various quests and side activities like foraging and part-time jobs. The gameplay loop is accessible, with minigames for diagnosis and potion crafting that emphasize casual play rather than intense challenge.

However, many players find the game becomes repetitive and grind-heavy over time, with resource gathering and fishing feeling tedious. The relationship system and dialogue are often described as shallow and repetitive, lacking depth and variety. Some minigames, particularly the diagnosis rhythm game, can be frustrating due to difficulty spikes or clunky controls. The game also feels somewhat unfinished, with limited areas to explore and infrequent updates from the developers. Despite flaws, Potion Permit is appreciated for its relaxing vibe and unique twist on the farming-sim genre without actual farming.

Highlights

Players praise Potion Permit for its beautiful, cozy art style and soothing music that enhance the relaxing gameplay experience. The potion crafting system is well-liked, offering enjoyable puzzles and resource management. The storyline and character interactions, while simple, provide a charming narrative that unfolds gradually. The game’s moderate difficulty and accessible minigames make it suitable for players seeking a low-stress experience. Many appreciate the absence of farming mechanics, differentiating it from similar titles like Stardew Valley. The lively town and NPCs with distinct lives add to the immersive world-building.

Criticisms

Common criticisms focus on the game’s repetitive and grind-heavy gameplay loop, particularly in resource gathering and fishing. Players find the dialogue and relationship progression lacking depth, with repetitive lines that diminish engagement over time. The diagnosis minigame is often cited as frustrating due to clunky controls and high difficulty without room for error. Limited exploration areas and lack of variety contribute to a feeling of monotony. Some note the game feels unfinished or underdeveloped, with few updates and missing features such as more diverse clothing options and expanded romance content.