1) definitely a feeling of nostalgia, who hasn't been outside because they have to do something they hate that eventually fades away in favor of making the most out of their time? really cool concept.
2) i think simplicity is best with games like this because i feel like the purpose is to convey an idea, or in this case, a relatable experience. there's the potential for gameplay mechanics to get in the way of that goal so i don't mind the lack of "conventional" or "active" gameplay because i feel like that's not what's trying to be accomplished here.