I just thought sending the local errand kid on missions was how people acquired stuff on this island."

It reveals the cold, lifeless husk beneath its lovely visuals.

There are other diversions to slowly tick off in Mineko’s Night Market as well.

A young girl looks up curiously in Mineko’s Night Market

And of course, let’s not forget that long list of villager requests to keep you busy.

To what end, you might ask?

A motivational cul-de-sac, that’s what.

A man approaches a market stall run by a young girl in Mineko’s Night Market

Two more Black Ramen.

As did the three other brats after him.

Where was this underground Black Ramen market when I needed it, goddamnit?

A mini-game to mine rock in Mineko’s Night Market

Even the money-spinning night market wasn’t enough to give my wallet a bump anymore.

In short, Mineko’s Night Market never coheres into an enjoyable whole.

This review is based on a review build of the game provided by publishers Humble Games.

A mini-game to chop a tree in Mineko’s Night Market

A young girl is too tired to pick up a hairball in Mineko’s Night Market

A young girl stands in the middle of three agents with torches in Mineko’s Night Market

A boy next to a tent talks to a young girl in Mineko’s Night Market

Two girls chat in a village in Mineko’s Night Market