Whether or not the main character wears a hat or where you buy your goods doesn't really make or break any game. I find AWL to be a more 'realistic' HM as there really aren't any more wierd magical things going on (the Sprites still exist, but their involvment with you is minimal). Also, the planting of seeds one at a time is more realistic (it also explains why the days are longer - you need more time to tend to your crops).