I really tried to love MH, but the dark gloominess of it all was pretty depressing...yes, I knew that was to be expected but it was soooo dark! (and I don't do mods). I actually did have big plans of fixing up some of my favorite houses (more colorful interiors/exteriors and landscaping) but after one that came out really good but looked very out of place and the task looked hopeless. I swiped a few cute male townies and never played MH again. I don't consider it a waste of money because I love the stuff that came with the town. :)
