So I might be getting a Rune Factory game pretty soon. I like Harvest Moon a lot, and I like the idea of Rune Factory since it's "a 'fantasy' Harvest Moon". I prefer handhelds since they're more convenient, but which one is the best? 1, 2, 3, or 4? In addition, which would be the cheapest? Be as detailed as you like; I really want to know I'm making a solid purchase when I buy one.
Personally I've only finished one, but I've played 1,2, and 4. I think universally many players consider the 4th installment for 3DS the best and probably the one most likely to go on sale thanks to the eShop compared to the other three games which are most likely out of print physically.