Virtual Orchard: shades of SimFarm

We're not sure if it comes with an option to sell out to a real estate developer, but a new video game - Orchard - simulates the tasks and management decisions players would have to complete if they operated a working orchard with a roadstand stand.

Players must dig in to salvage their grand-uncle Fred's orchard from its horrible state of disrepair, according to a release from the game's developer. By planting and harvesting crops, constructing useful buildings that increase capabilities, hiring and managing workers, and advertising to sell products, players can return the orchard to the thriving establishment that it once was.

Additionally, players can create 20 recipes from Blackberry Pie to Strawberry Fudge by utilizing the bounty of the orchard -- including strawberries, blueberries, cherries, grapes, apples and more! Baked goods can also be sold to increase profits and increase the reputation of the Orchard, allowing players to win awards and increase their trophy collection.

Majesco Entertainment Company, an innovative provider of video games, said in the release that this is its first foray into the online PC gaming market. Orchard is now widely available for download. Developed by BoomZap and co-published with Gogii Games, the simulation tasks players to manage all aspects of a growing, working farm and roadside farm stand.

Orchard is rated E for Everyone, and is now available for online download from the following sites: Playfirst, Iwin, Arcadetown, Reflexive Entertainment/Amazon, Bigfish Games, Oberon Media, GameFools, and Shockwave and will soon be available from Wildtangent, RealArcade and Boonty. Players can download Orchard for a 1-hour free trial before purchasing the game from the above sites. For additional information about Majesco's exciting line of products, please visit www.majescoentertainment.com.

Shades of SimFarm, that 1990s farming simulator that let people buy their own AgCat.