Plk_Lesiak

This is a question I've asked myself on any number of occasions (and despite my own thoughts below, I'd like to hear your thoughts on this as well).  For some reason, most vampire literature with a vampire protagonist has that protagonist hating him/herself and his/her condition (switching to 'his' after this sentence, for the sake of brevity). 
Let's be honest with ourselves... if we could gain immortality, immense strength, and the ability to control people's minds in exchange for having to suck human blood and stay out of the sun, the greater majority of us would probably leap at the chance.  Humans are selfish creatures, and the advantages seem to far-outweigh the disadvantages on the face of it.
One common answer to this is morality.  To be honest, I think this is the second worst answer of them all.  Yes, in the case of a vampire setting where the vampire has to kill the subject or infects anyone he bites, it makes sense for there to be a moral issue.  However, if that is not the case, this one doesn't pan out.  Sure, drinking blood sounds evil in and of itself... but if you aren't human, it isn't cannibalism, now is it?  Hedonism?  Is there anyone in a first-world nation that isn't at least a little hedonistic?
Another one is a sense of isolation.  Now this one makes a bit more sense as a negative for vampirism... but not for sucking blood.  Sure, it might be hard to make friends with your food, but it wouldn't be the first time.  No, the issue here is lies.  By nature, vampires need to hide themselves, since they are well... scary.  I mean, if something essentially eats a part of you to survive and looks similar to you, how can that not be scary in a visceral sense?  So yes, the isolation is a good reason to be afraid of your own vampirism if you are a vampire.
A sense of normalcy.  This is the one you see the most in VNs, and I honestly think that it is an abomination.  It is the worst answer.  Almost every vampire protagonist in a VN wants to regain their 'normal life', and this often results in them taking their anger out on the people who saved them and/or love them.  Sure, you pay a price for your vampirism... if you can't go out in the sun (a rarity in VNs), then it is hard to go to school.  If you have to suck human blood, then you can't really be called normal.  However, that sense that normalcy trumps everything (no I don't mean the president) is ridiculous.  I honestly find this kind of attitude annoying as hell in a protagonist, and it is only the ones who don't linger on it constantly that I'm willing to forgive.
Violent instincts... now this one is laughable.  'Vampires have violent instincts!!!'  Umm... hello?  What race goes around killing people for stupid reasons like religious affiliation, what side of a line on a map they live, and who has a better cow in their barn?  *snorts contemptuously*
In the end, vampirism in fiction is a trade-off... and self-hating vampires who stay that way without a good reason always strike me as fake (Toshirou from Vermilion has good reason, but most don't).

Warning: This review isn't necessarily safe for work, but all the nsfw content remains hidden within the spoiler tags. Read at your own discretion.

Title: 妖幻天女 (The Bewitching Celestial Maiden)
Developer: Scoop
Release: 2001/01/25
Genre: Fantasy
Rating: AO/18+
Trailer:
After way too many vns in our existence all the plots slowly run together into one and character development stops being important. It is when we want to take a break and get our hands on something extra crispy - as long as it allows us to indulge in the deepest of desires, there's no place for needless banter. We are merely simple beings with simple needs... and being a simple guy, I couldn't neglect a game, one of my friends recommended me long ago. "Play this japanese erogi", he said. "You will reach true happiness.", he said. At that point I barely knew moon runes, so I couldn't care less. Now when things changed, I accidentally stumbled upon this magnificent piece of software, while browsing through more forgotten corners of the japanese net. Was it worth it?
If you're interested, please continue.
 
Story

It's common for sons of well-established leaders to be mostly useless, good-for-nothing gallants. Raziel isn't an exception.
Prince Raziel is the successor to the demon throne, but his interests vary wildly from whatever his father keeps in stock, not to mention actual marriage. When his soon-to-be fiancée turns out to be an angel - a mortal enemy of the demon kind - Raziel takes a liking for the girl and decides to make her his bride, much to Demon King's disapproval. After a heated argument, king promises to approve of their relationship, but only if Raziel manages to bring her back to the demon realm. Clueless on how to begin, prince Raziel joins forces with his ever profit-hungry childhood friend Rosetta and together they embark on a fantastic journey through mystical realms, full of glorious dickings and endless hopes for treasure troves ready to be taken.

In this realm, your future half is revealed through divination, the rest does not seem to matter that much.
In order to reach the heavens above, our duo has to traverse through 魔界 ("Hell" for you, uneducated peasants) and obtain four elemental stones, which will allow them to open a magical portal leading to the mortal plane. From there onwards, they will have to pass through the Machine Country and Country of the Beasts, before they reach entrance to heavens. A seemingly simple task, if not for the fact the stones are being kept away within four great towers and each of them is supposedly protected by a powerful guardian. Obviously, the stones themselves contain tremendous powers that allow it's bearer to control the elemental energies and as such, shouldn't ever fall into anyone's hands, especially demon.

What a cutie. I'm obviously talking about Rosette.
No one really knows what lies beyond the mortal gates, but they're confident to push onwards. Such is their fate.
TL&DR version: It's a game about a demon prince, boning any females that stand on his way to achieve true happiness. Also, snakes. Lots of 'em.
 
Gameplay

Thanks for stating the obvious, Rosette.
Yougen Tennyo is a classic eroge, deeply rooted within the galgame realm of late 80's and early 90's. Game itself is divided into two parts - the usual story mode, presented in ADV fashion and a Qix-esque mini game, where your take control of our dark-winged protagonist trying to slash through maps compromised of tiles, avoiding and fighting against a variety of opponents. The capricious all-female guardians force him into a game of wits and wagers to prove his worthiness on being the next owner of the stones... and perhaps something else.
As you slowly progress through the game, you quickly find out the damn stones are as relevant as Raziel's fidelity. While each failure results in a classic "game over" screen, after which the game restarts, actual victories net you - the player - not only story progression, but the main reward - h-scenes, in which our protagonist has his way with the defeated ladies (sometimes likewise). And boy, oh boy - if you enjoy stories, where protagonists are either rogues or straight out bastards, while females constantly switch from prideful to poor, oppressed beings into lust-filled demons demanding your se- I mean, your unyielding attention - you'll love every minute of it. It's not a mystery to behold our dear ladies are of supernatural origin and being forever bound to a single place with no one to accompany them, they grew both very lonely and bored over the passing centuries. Surely - they might be ill-tempered and/or cautious (PMS, perhaps), but it's in your task to soften them up and judging from devs, the best possible way to do so is by being rough. Push onwards, traveller. Open all the gates!
The whole story is divided into seven arcs, not counting prologue and epilogue. There are four different towers and three realms our heroes will have to pass in order to reach ending. Each of the areas is a home to one of the game's heroines.
The Earth Tower, inhabited by our shy nymph Raka (guarding the Earth Stone) Kingdom of Winds, home to the capricious sylph Sherra (guarding the Wind Stone) Tower of the Flames, guarded by the tsun fire sprite, Narsemi (guarding the Fire Stone) Rainy Kingdom, home to the tempting undine, Arga (guarding the Water Stone) Machine Country (human world), managed by the automaton Queen, Lia Country of the Beasts, supervised by proud centauress, Eija. Finally, the Heavenly Realm, where Raziel's fated bride - Oferina - resides. As a reader, you will spend most of the time following Raziel and Rosetta from place to place and engage in battles with it's guardians; either chasing after the more timid gals, or confronting the powerful vixens directly, ultimately falling into their playful clutches. It's worthy to note despite game's initial simplicity, girls themselves prove to be pleasantly developed, both in terms of personalities and the less, but not less important bits (when it applied). Each of the encounters is different and has something else in stock - there's a nut for every bolt, as they say. Not all of them run away scared or remain hostile to the protagonist. Some - in fact - welcome him as a pleasant surprise in their realms, offering to exchange their stones (wew) for a friendly game of cat and mouse. Those games - often being contests of strength, wits and spirit - ultimately turn to time, where they slowly get to know each other and sadly - the only time where we can learn something more about them. Fans of Rance series might find themselves at home, as most of the events in the story are described in an ultimately comedic fashion, rather than being serious and you can't deny that Raziel - even for being a villainous sort of a protagonist - isn't inherently bad, or evil as his only ultimate goal is to find a way to heavens and meet with his fated fiancée. In other words, you quickly let certain things go past the radar, even when most of the acts committed by Raziel could easily be described as nothing else but forcey fun time.
Things get more hectic in the end, when you finally reach the Celestial Kingdom, that turns out to be less celestial, than you thought at first. A rather tiny, but surprising plot twist occurs, where you confront an unexpected guest and have to rescue Oferina from a fate far worse than death... I'd rather omit the details to avoid potential spoiling, but the whole final confrontation left me as much distressed and angry, as hilariously grinning for the remaining portion of the game.

And they all lived happily ever after... or did they?
I found the whole concept of the game symbolic at times. Embarking from the depths of the netherworld, collecting elements that form the basis of universe, passing through the human realm, reaching the kingdom representing nature itself (one that will always remain above humanity) and finally reaching heavens, representing self-understanding all create a somewhat mystic feeling. Each of the realms seems to be a self-sufficient, closed-off state - more of a dream, where our heroines reside, mostly alone, if not counting their faithful servitors. The lack of humans within their own world is thought-provoking and you start to wonder, what happened. Did we lost ourselves in our never-ending pursuit of perfection or perhaps the mechanical puppets themselves are what remained of our own kind? In contrast to this, the Country of the Beasts seems like a bliss, akin to ancient descriptions of Promised Land, or Eden. We see all the animals in the backgrounds - both herbivores and carnivores - living in perfect harmony. A place of eternal happiness and ultimately something we cannot return to. The Celestial world above seems very cold and empty, with ancient ruins older than the universe itself. It reflects in Oferina's eyes - distant, melancholic and filled with solitude.
All those states form what could be seemingly described as our own consciousness. Quite artsy, to be honest.

This is what happens, when you allow greedy lolis to do as they please.
In overall, I found the whole story to be pleasant and really enjoyable, if not a bit repetitive. Despite being plain and very much straightforward, the entire voyage got me hooked until the very end. For that I have to thank the game's heroines and Rosetta's constant antics.
 
Minigame

Though the developers consider Yougen Tennyo a mix between ADV and Qix, the mini-game portion itself feels closer to Bomberman, rather than similar puzzle/arcade titles.
The mechanics are very simple. Your primary task is to clear each stage from all the tiles scattered on the floor. There's a timer running, so you have to hurry up, because when it reaches zero it's instant game over.
Raziel moves across the tiles, leaving a flaming trail behind him which can be used to close them in simple geometric patterns. When you succeed, all tiles contained inside turn into elemental bullets and shoot in a direction our character was last facing. Those can be used to damage and kill the servitors sent by the guardians to hinder our progress. Killed enemies will sometimes leave power-ups. Those are divided into few different types - offensive, defensive and utility, ranging from instant bombs and bonus lives to additional time or stop it for a while, prevent opponents from spawning on the map or summon Rosette's lovely pet companion - Grimarkin (actually, it's a female as well... hopefully) - to either destroy tiles or launch attacks at the opponents. Again, despite it's simplicity, the mini game turned out to be a lot more engaging than I expected. It's feels very balanced and provides constant challenge, while not being an overly frustrating addition. If you will play straight from the beginning and have some skill with arcade games, you shouldn't have any problems in reaching the end, considering how generous stages can be at times, raining you with constant stream of 1-UP's.
You're also gifted with Rosetta's presence in the bottom-left window, cheerfully commenting on your achievements and mishaps, because all we need is more sarcasm.

My only note is that the game could still use a bit more variety in map design and puzzle elements. If not for the slight changes in terrain graphics and opponents, you could be as well playing the same exact thing, over and over again.
The whole game is divided into 7 different worlds and each of them contains four stages. The first one is considered more or less an introduction. The second one adds more opponents. Sub-bosses appear in third stage. Those are usually powerful beings and each of them comes with a fairly different set of skills, requiring different approach to clean stages. They can be killed, but attempting to do so can be quite tricky, considering their toughness.
In the final stage, you will confront the guardian heroines themselves. Similar to sub-bosses, ladies have different skills and attacks, becoming progressively more dangerous and difficult to beat as the game progresses. Personally, I found Eija to be the most challenging opponent, truly worthy of her character. Heroines can be defeated as well, but they are one of the toughest opponents existing, requiring a lot of effort. Regadless, as your main task is to clear all the tiles, beating them is not required, but purely optional.

Regarding boss fights, it's worth to remember about Rosetta's treasure hunting requests, if you want to earn her gratitude. As to why, I will leave it for players to deduce themselves
 
Art & Music
There is "music" in this game.
Jokes, aside - it's all simple FM-midi tunes. Those might have been good around thirty years ago, but not anymore. Regardless, they are fitting and create a good background noise for all the action.

Queen Eija is a lovely lady, but the bottom part seems incompatible.
What really does shine, though is the art. For a game of it's time, Yougen Tennyo managed to reach a peculiar mix between simplicity and utmost artistry. The majority of art, including character concepts was done by Minoru Murao (of Knights, Last Exile, Burst Angel and 707R fame, amongst other works), remaining nothing less than gorgeous. It's obvious Minoru was heavily inspired by Arabian Nights (visible in character designs and setting) and Art Nouveau with it's flowery patterns, thick outlines, minimal shading, subtly drawn faces and beautiful anatomy. All of this is a true feast for eyes to look upon. The unique mix between erotica and high art - the subtle embrace of delicate female beauty portrayed against the flowery plains, contrasting with the primal joviality of our dark-winged demon protagonist turned out to be a really tasteful and unique approach for a visual novel of this kind.

It's a shame the game is so old and as such, former hardware limitations prevented higher resolution graphics.
 
Ero

Because our protagonist is a an awful, awful person.
The cherry on the top.
If you're a fan of 100% consensual vanilla H, stay the hell away from this game, as some of the scenes might end in complete disgust to all things japanese, possibly combined with police knocking on your doors.
If otherwise, this - my friend - will be one of the most memorable experiences in your life, you might feel ashamed of but won't ever regret.
Not only you get beautiful gals, as they pant and tussle in ecstasy, there's a lot more in store for all the fans of dirty erotica. Our protagonist is a shape shifting dweller of the netherworld himself, capable to turn into a gigantic snake and command a whole flock of scale-covered familiars, ready to pursue his every single order. He is not afraid to use them to the fullest potential (don't click that link at work, seriously). The game offers a wide variety of heroines with different personalities, sexual experience and level of kinkiness, which results in a lot of funny situations (mostly for us, less for them), not to mention preceding sexual innuendos and dirty talking. As an seemingly inconspicuous but powerful apex predator - demonic avatar of lust and depravity - you will slowly drive your unsuspecting victims into a corner, devoid them of their dignity and work them up to new heights of carnal pleasure, they never experienced before.
Even tentacles in this game come as one of the most beautiful I've ever came across and quite cuddly in their own way
If you ever thought how females felt during the age of myth, play this game. Being forcefully taken against your own will is just the very beginning of a never-ending circle of perversion, our ancestors excelled at. Not only we loved to imagine how things are done within the celestial realm, but the cleverness behind the sex acts themselves could only equal to cunning tactics, our demigod brethren (and possibly sisters) employed to seduce their targets. Bulls, swans, sneks, golden rain, fog, treasure chests, spiders, mirrors, more sneks, wine, eagles, even more sneks, larks, mysterious objects(?) were all just a tip of an iceberg floating within a sea of wriggling snakes.
This game just loves snakes. I won't be surprised you too might start to like them afterwards.
 
Technicalities
I can't forget to mention how hard Yougen Tennyo is to obtain nowadays (if you're a collector) and how even more difficult is to make it run on any modern PC at all. Since the game is basically a self-extracting software CD from circa 2001, it does not recognize modern display standards. I had to hack the executable in order to make it work on a 16:9 screen, although it did manage to open properly on another machine running Windows 7 on a 5:4 monitor, in 1280x1024 resolution. I suspect a windows hooker, such as DxWnd might be able to run it as well. If you own the original CD, an optical drive is surely required.
 
End thoughts
If you're a fan of oldschool eroge, looking for something nice and not overly long nor difficult to play, this game - despite it's complete obscurity - is a true gem in the rough and shouldn't be omitted.
 
Pros:
Gorgeous, highly stylized art Six different heroines standing on your path, plus Rosetta and your would-be fiancée Despite the themes, story is mostly light and comedic, akin to Rance games Plenty of well drawn and varied h-cgs with pretty, fairy-like gals You get to bang a haughty centauress 👌 Rosetta is cute af and she gets her screen time as well (provided you know what to do) You get cucked Cons:
No catgirls (sub-boss in the penultimate map doesn't count) The story can be considered shallow and characters could include more depth The mini-game could use more variety in terms of mechanics The game is a pain in the ass to run on modern systems, unless you own a retro pc Lack of possibility to save, skip and fast-forward the text the old style censorship with it's invisible weenies and huge mosaics gets really annoying at times If resident lolis weren't enough, Narsemi's arc might be an actual deal breaker for a lot of people (YMMV) You get cucked

Hello there and welcome to the new iteration of my humble blog!
Pride of the West was created, apart from fueling my personal megalomania, for a very specific goal: promoting and demystifying OELVNs within the Fuwa community, fighting the negative stereotypes and ridicule attached to them in minds of the many more JP-centric VN fans. For the last six months, I've spent countless hours exploring the EVN scene and channelling my impressions into the blog (with what I personally see as a very positive and encouraging response).
I was, however, never really satisfied with the brand I've come up with last year and this was one of the problems that became apparent while my project became more fleshed out and grew in size, with attachments such as the Steam Curation and Twitter account. The second issue that became clear over time was the limitations of the Forums blogging tool, which guaranteed certain visibility, but gave me very little control over my own content and was shared between a large number of people, with only that much space for all of them in that little side-tab.
For all these reasons, I've decided to go forward with some (long-coming) changes, the most important ones being establishing the external version of the blog and changing the name of the whole project to (slightly generic, but much less pretentious) EVN Chronicles. I've also moved the Steam Curator page to a new address, sadly being forced to forgo my previous, humble following in the process, but with the hope that the new setup can bring much more with time. So, as I've explained what's happening, I would like you to encourage you to:
--> Check out (and consider following) EVN Chronicles' external site
--> Follow my new Steam Curator page
--> Follow me on Twitter for blog updates and various VN-related news
Apart from setting up the blog, I've worked this week to bring you a new review format - Shovelware Adventures - in which I will go through notorious OELVN shovelware and give it semi-humorous assessments. The first post in this style will appear later today, both on Fuwa and the new site.
For the time being, the Fuwanovel version of the blog will be updated along with the new one, while the external blog will also feature slightly-redacted reposts of the old reviews and posts along with announcements I wouldn't post here to avoid clogging the sidebar (those might appear on the blog's thread in the member's lounge). However, after a week, I will be cutting every new Fuwa post into a teaser version and adding a link to the external blog. Same will happen to the old posts, as they are gradually re-published on the new site.
I hope you'll follow me in this new stage of my VN journey and have a lovely weekend everyone!

On a few occasions I’ve stated that I do now wish to give too much space to bad OELVNs, as it goes directly against the idea behind this blog: showing the real value within the Western VN industry and disproving negative stereotypes held by JP-oriented readers (and people less familiar with the formula altogether). There’s, however, no way to reasonably deny that the OELVN scene is full of games of questionable quality – many of which I, as someone exploring all corners and shady alleys of the VN world, end up playing. And while a large number, maybe even a majority of those games can be excused for their failures, considering they’re purely amateur, freeware projects (such as quickly-put-together game jam entries), many other are commercial products that, by the sheer fact of asking money from their audience, are fully open for scrutiny and even straight up shaming, if they deserve that.
            This new format will be focused on the exactly that kind of games – titles from most notorious, shovelware-spewing developers and all kinds of unfortunate, misguided failures that plague the OELVN industry. Torturing the games and their creators is not my main intention though – I want to both keep a lighthearted tone in my coverage and not forgot the humour, intentional or not, that can be found in bad games. For this reason, the mini-reviews presented will be at best semi-serious and to make that point clear, they’ll be made using a custom, 3-point scoring system:

Golden Poo: Awarded to games that, while still definitely bad in many aspects, are either amusing with their absurdity or present some kind of trashy charm that make them, in certain contexts, a worthy experience.
Read the full article at evnchronicles.blogspot.com

Hello there and welcome to the new iteration of my humble blog!
Pride of the West was created, apart from fueling my personal megalomania, for a very specific goal: promoting and demystifying OELVNs within the Fuwa community, fighting the negative stereotypes and ridicule attached to them in minds of the many more JP-centric VN fans. For the last six months, I've spent countless hours exploring the EVN scene and channelling my impressions into the blog (with what I personally see as a very positive and encouraging response).
I was, however, never really satisfied with the brand I've come up with last year and this was one of the problems that became apparent while my project became more fleshed out and grew in size, with attachments such as the Steam Curation and Twitter account. The second issue that became clear over time was the limitations of the Forums blogging tool, which guaranteed certain visibility, but gave me very little control over my own content and was shared between a large number of people, with only that much space for all of them in that little side-tab.
For all these reasons, I've decided to go forward with some (long-coming) changes, the most important ones being establishing the external version of the blog and changing the name of the whole project to (slightly generic, but much less pretentious) EVN Chronicles. I've also moved the Steam Curator page to a new address, sadly being forced to forgo my previous, humble following in the process, but with the hope that the new setup can bring much more with time. So, as I've explained what's happening, I would like you to encourage you to:
--> Check out (and consider following) EVN Chronicles' external site
--> Follow my new Steam Curator page
--> Follow me on Twitter for blog updates and various VN-related news
Apart from setting up the blog, I've worked this week to bring you a new review format - Shovelware Adventures - in which I will go through notorious OELVN shovelware and give it semi-humorous assessments. The first post in this style will appear later today, both on Fuwa and the new site.
For the time being, the Fuwanovel version of the blog will be updated along with the new one, while the external blog will also feature slightly-redacted reposts of the old reviews and posts along with announcements I wouldn't post here to avoid clogging the sidebar (those might appear on the blog's thread in the member's lounge). However, after a week, I will be cutting every new Fuwa post into a teaser version and adding a link to the external blog. Same will happen to the old posts, as they are gradually re-published on the new site.
I hope you'll follow me in this new stage of my VN journey and have a lovely weekend everyone!

Hello there and welcome to the new iteration of my humble blog!
Pride of the West was created, apart from fueling my personal megalomania, for a very specific goal: promoting and demystifying OELVNs within the Fuwa community, fighting the negative stereotypes and ridicule attached to them in minds of the many more JP-centric VN fans. For the last six months, I've spent countless hours exploring the EVN scene and channelling my impressions into the blog (with what I personally see as a very positive and encouraging response).
I was, however, never really satisfied with the brand I've come up with last year and this was one of the problems that became apparent while my project became more fleshed out and grew in size, with attachments such as the Steam Curation and Twitter account. The second issue that became clear over time was the limitations of the Forums blogging tool, which guaranteed certain visibility, but gave me very little control over my own content and was shared between a large number of people, with only that much space for all of them in that little side-tab.
For all these reasons, I've decided to go forward with some (long-coming) changes, the most important ones being establishing the external version of the blog and changing the name of the whole project to (slightly generic, but much less pretentious) EVN Chronicles. I've also moved the Steam Curator page to a new address, sadly being forced to forgo my previous, humble following in the process, but with the hope that the new setup can bring much more with time. So, as I've explained what's happening, I would like you to encourage you to:
--> Check out (and consider following) EVN Chronicles' external site
--> Follow my new Steam Curator page
--> Follow me on Twitter for blog updates and various VN-related news
Apart from setting up the blog, I've worked this week to bring you a new review format - Shovelware Adventures - in which I will go through notorious OELVN shovelware and give it semi-humorous assessments. The first post in this style will appear later today, both on Fuwa and the new site.
For the time being, the Fuwanovel version of the blog will be updated along with the new one, while the external blog will also feature slightly-redacted reposts of the old reviews and posts along with announcements I wouldn't post here to avoid clogging the sidebar (those might appear on the blog's thread in the member's lounge). However, after a week, I will be cutting every new Fuwa post into a teaser version and adding a link to the external blog. Same will happen to the old posts, as they are gradually re-published on the new site.
I hope you'll follow me in this new stage of my VN journey and have a lovely weekend everyone!

Hello there and welcome to the new iteration of my humble blog!
Pride of the West was created, apart from fueling my personal megalomania, for a very specific goal: promoting and demystifying OELVNs within the Fuwa community, fighting the negative stereotypes and ridicule attached to them in minds of the many more JP-centric VN fans. For the last six months, I've spent countless hours exploring the EVN scene and channelling my impressions into the blog (with what I personally see as a very positive and encouraging response).
I was, however, never really satisfied with the brand I've come up with last year and this was one of the problems that became apparent while my project became more fleshed out and grew in size, with attachments such as the Steam Curation and Twitter account. The second issue that became clear over time was the limitations of the Forums blogging tool, which guaranteed certain visibility, but gave me very little control over my own content and was shared between a large number of people, with only that much space for all of them in that little side-tab.
For all these reasons, I've decided to go forward with some (long-coming) changes, the most important ones being establishing the external version of the blog and changing the name of the whole project to (slightly generic, but much less pretentious) EVN Chronicles. I've also moved the Steam Curator page to a new address, sadly being forced to forgo my previous, humble following in the process, but with the hope that the new setup can bring much more with time. So, as I've explained what's happening, I would like you to encourage you to:
--> Check out (and consider following) EVN Chronicles' external site
--> Follow my new Steam Curator page
--> Follow me on Twitter for blog updates and various VN-related news
Apart from setting up the blog, I've worked this week to bring you a new review format - Shovelware Adventures - in which I will go through notorious OELVN shovelware and give it semi-humorous assessments. The first post in this style will appear later today, both on Fuwa and the new site.
For the time being, the Fuwanovel version of the blog will be updated along with the new one, while the external blog will also feature slightly-redacted reposts of the old reviews and posts along with announcements I wouldn't post here to avoid clogging the sidebar (those might appear on the blog's thread in the member's lounge). However, after a week, I will be cutting every new Fuwa post into a teaser version and adding a link to the external blog. Same will happen to the old posts, as they are gradually re-published on the new site.
I hope you'll follow me in this new stage of my VN journey and have a lovely weekend everyone!

https://vndb.org/v11009
Disclaimer: I played the recent fan translation and from my (limited) knowledge of Japanese, I found it to be quite accurate. I was actually surprised by how the translator made certain sentences work and I can't recall an instance where I thought the translation looked strange. 
 
When Hajimete no Okaa-san's fan translation came out, it caused a tiny yet significant uproar on certain visual novel related communities. The English idiom that spans over a century - don't judge a book by its cover - could possibly have been created for this very moment. I hope that by writing this review, I can clear up any misconceptions about this novel, teach you to not judge a work by its outward appearance and give you the courage to read a truly touching story. 
Dealing with the loss of a loved isn't easy, no matter if you're an adult or a child, and even more so if the person in question is an irreplaceable person that you've vowed eternity to or that defines your complete existence. 

When our unnamed protagonist, who I will refer to as "Papa", loses his beloved wife to a traffic accident, he is left with the troublesome task of single parenting. Confronting the sorrows of one who has been turned into pure white ash, he finds solace in the one and only person who could understand him and also the one who might be suffering the most - his one and only daughter Chiyori (Chii).
Hajimete no Okaa-san is a very special Visual Novel. Unlike the disappointing standard of recent releases, it treats both its audience and characters with the respect they deserve. The most significant difference between this novel and the many others is the fact that its willing to portray the characters as real human beings. Please allow me to mention that there exist only eight translated visual novels with the "Widower Protagonist" and likely no other that focuses as deeply on the theme of single parenting.
The rather simplistic approach to emotions is surprisingly expressive, although one could argue about the emotional depth of a 6-year old, I was able to completely grasp both the personality of Chii through the brilliant performance of seiyuu Amakawa Milk (a respectable veteran in her own right with a wide palette of roles) and the internal monologues of Papa.
The beginning is rather surprising. The amount of effort that the creators have put into this work is nearly palpable, often leaving one surprised at how nicely written and how well the narrative flows. Starting with ordinary slice-of-life scenes, we're thrown into the daily life of Papa and her daughter Chii. Starting with the smallest things like learning how to write hiragana and her own name in Kanji, the basics of arithmetic, giving up one's fork and knife and mastering the use of chopsticks - they are all endearing moments that help us connect with Chii as a character and reminding us of times long past of our childhood when everything was much simpler. It is this genuine and pure simplicity that initially made this novel stand out.
In contrast to this feeling, enter "Chii wa kodomo janai!" - Chii is no longer a child. Her own desire to find a way to deal with her own sorrows, all the while supporting the one person she loves most in her world, one of the most satisfying factors of reading through this novel is observing Chii's maturity as a character.
Despite the more lighthearted scenes, the novel is plentiful with well-timed drama which never for a moment felt excessive or artificial. Papa is stuck in a constant internal moral debate which at times stops him from realising the suffering of those who are right in front of his eyes.

As far as storytelling goes, one of the biggest attributes ishow the reader has the freedom to change the course of the story (albeit into premature ends). As for this aspect, I would like to divide the story in three or four parts (I will just say that the forth part is a Web Omake, essentially a short epilogue that portrays the life of our two, now three characters after the events of the main game).
The first being the first two hours where we accompany the characters until the inevitable H-scene. Here, the reader is given the choice to not go through it at all and completely avoid the H-scene, ending the game prematurely. To not give in to his dark desires and not abandoning one's morals, is too a possible answer that Papa can find. 
The second part and probably the longest, accompanies our two characters as their relationship develops. The most important aspect that I'd like to bring up is that the whole theme of pregnancy is treated. In many eroge, pregnancy is either completely ignored, allowing our most likely 16-year old protagonist to let out his seed without any worries in the world, or treated as an afterthought, perhaps featured in one last H-scene before the game ends. In this novel, not only do we see their relationship flourish but the passage of time, told by the growth of Chii's belly and change of hairstyle (over five different character sprites!), shows us that this is aspect that is willing to be embraced, often being the case for worry for our protagonist.
At the end of the second part, the reader is given another important choice: to go beyond mere carnal desires and a parent's desire to protect his child and thus taking their relationship to the next level, or to once again fall into self-hatred and not take responsibility for one's actions. Thus begins the third part: "I want Papa to always be by my side". While perhaps as long as the first part, it's perhaps the one with the most emotional impact. Vowing to combat loneliness, Papa and Chii realise that being surrounded by the people you love is far more important than having a peaceful life. Chii does not become a replacement - she is her own person and the most important thing in the world to our protagonist. As long as two people can love each other, that is more than enough.
And as long as there is love, there is warmth. A new family is born. The two become three, the warmth keeps rising and it spreads to others around. When I finished reading Hajimete no Okaa-san, I felt a warmth deep inside of me because I realised I had just been through a really special experience. With this review, I hope that I convinced you to read this beautiful story and too come to have warmth in your heart. Thank you for reading.
https://imgur.com/a/FpPkAxp (This might be a little of a spoiler so I won't post it as an image, but it's the last and most impactful scene of the novel)
 
 
 
I am open to criticism and would be happy if you could help me improve as a reviewer. 

Sunrider: Mask of Arcadius is one of the best-known and probably most appreciated western visual novels. Developed by Love in Space and published for free by Sekai Project in July 2014, it was downloaded on Steam by around 600 thousand players and spawned a successful franchise, with its commercial sequel, Liberation Day and dating sim spin-off, Sunrider Academy, both reaching impressive sale numbers and mostly positive feedback from the community.
            What’s interesting, Mask of Arcadius is also a hybrid title, possibly more ambitious and refined with its strategy game elements than “pure” visual novel segments. Most likely, it is exactly that part of the game that gave it a much broader appeal than that of typical VNs and made its spectacular success on Steam possible. Does it, however, still have a similar entertainment value for dedicated VN readers, on a much more saturated, diverse market, as it had in 2014?
Read the full review at evnchronicles.blogspot.com
 

Sunrider: Mask of Arcadius is one of the best-known and probably most appreciated western visual novels. Developed by Love in Space and published for free by Sekai Project in July 2014, it was downloaded on Steam by around 600 thousand players and spawned a successful franchise, with its commercial sequel, Liberation Day and dating sim spin-off, Sunrider Academy, both reaching impressive sale numbers and mostly positive feedback from the community.
            What’s interesting, Mask of Arcadius is also a hybrid title, possibly more ambitious and refined with its strategy game elements than “pure” visual novel segments. Most likely, it is exactly that part of the game that gave it a much broader appeal than that of typical VNs and made its spectacular success on Steam possible. Does it, however, still have a similar entertainment value for dedicated VN readers, on a much more saturated, diverse market, as it had in 2014?
Read the full review at evnchronicles.blogspot.com
 

Sunrider: Mask of Arcadius is one of the best-known and probably most appreciated western visual novels. Developed by Love in Space and published for free by Sekai Project in July 2014, it was downloaded on Steam by around 600 thousand players and spawned a successful franchise, with its commercial sequel, Liberation Day and dating sim spin-off, Sunrider Academy, both reaching impressive sale numbers and mostly positive feedback from the community.
            What’s interesting, Mask of Arcadius is also a hybrid title, possibly more ambitious and refined with its strategy game elements than “pure” visual novel segments. Most likely, it is exactly that part of the game that gave it a much broader appeal than that of typical VNs and made its spectacular success on Steam possible. Does it, however, still have a similar entertainment value for dedicated VN readers, on a much more saturated, diverse market, as it had in 2014?
Read the full review at evnchronicles.blogspot.com
 

Ten Yuri Series You Need To Read Before I Destroy You, And Everything You Have Ever Loved

 
Now, I know what you are going to ask, "What is Yuri?" Well my pathetic and childless friend let me answer that for you. Yuri is a...
(CAN YOU DIG IT?) I was first introduced to the Yuri genre back in my Sophomore year of High School when I was around 16 years old. I was just getting into anime after having been introduced to the best series ever, Galaxy Angel a year prior. That Yuri series happened to be Strawberry Panic!, and I really loved it. Now that I think about it was of the first romance series I actually sat through. It was several years later that I was introduced to Visual Novels and had my thirst for romance essentially quenched. It was only until recently that I was rediscovered my love of the genre and became the enlightened being that stands before you. Now, before I crush you and everything you have ever loved (along with things you just causally liked) here are ten manga series that you really should read.
Number 1. Bloom Into You
By Nakatani Nio
Status: Ongoing

This is what really kicked jumped my yuri obsession into high gear and it quickly became one of my overall favorite manga series.
Bloom Into You, tells the story of Yuu Koito a first year high school student and her involvement with the beloved and enigmatic Touko Nanami. What makes it truly wonderful for me at least is the characters and the art. Yuu is a really strong and grounded protagonist and the fact that she is initially incapable of falling in love makes her quite intriguing, given that this is a romance manga after all. Touko is another really great character and I liked that she was a twist on the classic yuri trope of the perfect and mysterious senpai. Bloom Into You also has a large cast of side characters who flesh out the manga with their perspectives and interactions. The core cast all have a tremendous amount of character growth throughout the series and it has been nice to see them grow and change over time. More than simply being a yuri story Bloom Into You is a story about finding yourself and coming to terms with who you are. I'd definitely recommend it to anyone whether they like yuri or not.

Number 2. The Kase San and...series
By Hiromi Takashima
Status: Completed (Continued in Yamada to Kase-san)

The Kase-San and series is one of the warmest, gentlest, and endearing manga series I have ever come across. It positively oozes sentimentality and radiates sweetness. Such concentrated fluffy feelings exuded by the manga ought to be lethal. I'm surprised it's author Hiromi Takashima, has not been brought up on crimes of adorableness. It's really fucking cute is what I'm trying to convey to you okay? The Kase-San series is about the growing relationship between Yamada the one woman gardening committee representative, and Kase a beloved track and field star. It does a lot to make itself truly memorable inside and outside the yuri circle it was birthed in. It really bucks a common trope that the yuri genre is especially guilty of, which is that most yuri series ends with them becoming a couple. Most yuri manga's and VN's usually end at the mutual confession and kiss stage. It's for the most part a very cathartic ending that rewards all the time the two spent pining for each other. The problem with this ending is that you never get to see them as a couple, it's just presumed that they'll stay together forever and that's it. Kase-San is different in this way. By the end of the first volume they have already kissed and became a couple. The rest of the volumes deal with the trials and tribulations that normally spring up as the two try and understand each other. Both the leads are wonderfully sweet and really complement each other well. Yamada is a big ball of manic energy and cuteness and Kase is a big goof whom is utterly enraptured by Yamada. The art is very vivid and cartoony and every character has a huge range of expressions. I was struck by how much of it reminded me of Dr. Seuss' works. The art also has this amazing ability to turn from cute to sexy in a second. It is really quite the feat.

Number 3. Octave
By Akiyama Haru
Status: Completed

Now, I've already covered how much I love this manga in the review so I'll just include a link for it here. It's a great read for those who are sick and tired of high school settings, and hunger for delicious angst.
Number 4. Nettaigyo wa Yuki ni Kogareru
By Makoto Hagino
Status: Ongoing

That's still the best new pickup line I've seen in a while. I'm not sure of it's effectiveness so you should try it out yourself. I have been in love with this manga since the first chapter. It tells the story of Konatsu Amano who moves to a brand new school, in a brand new town while her father is away oversees. There she meets Koyuki Honami a beloved and seemingly perfect older girl (Are you seeing a pattern here?) and their friendship begins. Koyuki is another subversion of that perfect senpai role as she is just a incredibly shy and awkward girl, with no real friends. Their interactions are very honest and believable and they make such a adorkable paring. There are also fun dads in abundance which is interesting because typically family figures are virtually nonexistent when it comes to most yuri mangas. That subtext tag is making me very nervous though.
Number 5. Notes From The Garden Of Lilies
By Suga Atsushi
Status: Completed

Why do the best things in the world only come in two volumes? This is how I feel about this particular manga. I love the budding relationship between the two leads. Both are characters that I absolutely adored the moment I encountered them and the way they both bounce off each other is fabulous. I wish there were twenty volumes of this but I suppose I must content myself with only two. The world is so unfair sometimes...
Number 6. The Real Her
By Imamura Youko
Status, Completed

...and so it continues. This great yuri love story is only one volume long which I think is absolutely criminal. The Real Her tells the love story of the hardcore masochistic Moe, and the budding sadist Yuuka. Like Notes From The Garden Of Lilies the greatness in this manga is all in the character interaction. It's delightfully funny, and it really satisfied the sadistic side of me.
Number 7. Pulse
By Ratana Satis
Status, Completed

Looks like Drama is back on the menu boys! Pulse tells the very adult story about Mel, a beautiful surgeon who is determined to never fall in love again and Lynn, a college student with a life threatening heart condition. It's a very tender story that also manages to be damn sexy. The drama was handled very well and I really liked Lynn much more than I thought I would. I have never been a fan of characters with a affliction because more often than not, they are but a fountain for tears. Lynn never came across to me as being that way and I liked her personality. Mel is also a very strong character and her growth was very believable. If you need a good dose of adult romantic drama then consider this as your prescription covered. Side effects might include lots of tears.
Number 8. It Would Be Great if You Didn't Exist
By Carbonara
Status, Ongoing?

The drama train is still at the station and oh boy, is this one a doozy. The basic premise is that Guk-Hwa finds out that her dirt-bag boyfriend has been cheating on her with another woman. When she goes to confront the two of them she is struck by how attractive she finds the other woman. I have not really a premise like it before so I was immediately intrigued. The two leads really complement each other and they are very well developed. The humor which is prevalent throughout the series is also pretty fantastic. However, it would be unwise to let your guard down because this series is great about hammer striking you repeatedly with drama laden fists.
Number 9. Hana to Hoshi
By Suzukin Kario
Status, Completed

Looks like it's back to high school, I swear I can't escape it no matter how hard I try. I guess the only way would be to avoid anything remotely Japanese but since I can't do that let's get on with this already. Hana used to be table top champion until she was unseated by a newcomer with scary eyes. Unable to handle her newfound loosing streak she was forced to retire from the sport. Hania plans to start over a fresh leaf in her first year of high school only to come face to face with her former rival. This is another one of those slow burns that is helped along greatly by the fantastic back and forth between the two characters. The story opens up further when a romantic rival appears on the scene. The only unfortunate thing about this manga is that it feels a bit cut short. It's a manga that is only two volumes long but it could have easily been four or five.

 
Number 10. Fragtime
By Sato
Status, Completed

Okay, so it was really hard to decide which one would should end this top ten list but I ultimately decided to go with Fragtime. The premise is what really got my attention. Fragtime is about a young woman named Misuzu who has the power to freeze time for three minutes a day. Instead of using her powerful but limited power for evil she instead uses it to look up the skirt of a girl that she has a crush on. (What a wholesome girl) Unfortunately for her this happens to be the panties belonging to the one person whom is immune to her powers. Even though this is such a goofy premise it still ends up being a very powerful and poignant series. I am so lucky I was able to stumble upon it.
Oh And This Isn't Quite Yuri But I Want It On This List
Shimanami Tasogare
By Yuuki Kamatani
Status: Completed

Okay this might be cheating a little bit but this is not in fact wholly a yuri series. Still, it feels almost criminal to not include it on this list so here it goes. Shimanami Tasogare is about a young boy named Tasuku Kaname who is nearly driven to suicide after nearly being outed as being gay. He is stopped by a strange woman named Anonymous who invites him to a tea house frequented by other social outcasts. I included this manga on the list because there is a lesbian side couple that are very well developed and have a meaningful relationship that has more depth than many yuri manga's. In fact, nearly the whole spectrum of the LGBTQA community is represented in this manga. What's more is that it is done in a way that feels authentic and real. It never once felt fake or phony to me. The characters are all very fleshed out and they are not depicted as perfect beings and they all have their own hangups and problems. It's rare to ever see any real world drama in a yuri manga, in fact it's barely touched on if at all. The situation for gay and lesbian peoples is still one of hardship especially in Japan where gay marriage is still illegal. Tasogare thankfully does not gloss over this and instead provides a very emotional and compelling story.
The Runners Up
This is all for those that I liked but didn't quite make the cut.
Prism
By Higashiyama Shou
Status: Canceled

This was all set to be a really amazing series with a great couple but unfortunately the author was accused of tracing and it was canceled after only six chapters. Truly, it is one of the greatest tragedies of the modern age. Mourn what could have been.
The Feelings We Must All Endure
By Amano Shuninta
Status: Complete

This is a great manga to read if are tired of uplifting yuri stories and want to read something that is angsty as all hell. I would rate it higher on my list since it is one of the few series that involves College at all, but they do some haphazard character assassination in the last few chapters and I don't like that. Don't expect a good time while reading this manga, expect a bad time. Still, it's set in a goddamn university! Why the fuck aren't you going to read it?
Girl Friends
By Milk Morinaga
Status: Complete

I really liked this series because the girls portrayed in it felt like real high school girls dealing with the typical high school problems. There was level of authenticity to their concerns about fashion or dieting because high school girls are real superficial. The gradual romance in this manga series is really sweet and wonderful but there is just one major problem I have with this series and it is the abundance of misunderstandings. The couple in this series have so many moments of jumping to the wrong conclusion or assuming the worst that it gets a bit aggravating after a while. It's like you  just want to shake the both of them and scream, "YOU BOTH FUCKING LOVE EACH OTHER, OKAY??" Oh and don't get me started on poorly timed interruptions because this series has plenty of those to spare. Despite those issues Girl Friends is truly a wonderful love story.
Citrus
By Saburouta
Status: Ongoing

Look, I know Citrus is a bit trashy and bit soap opera-y but it's got several really good merits. The first one is that it has Harumin in it and Harumin is the fucking best, okay? She's the fucking best! She's like the reincarnation of Chikaru Minamoto she's that great. She's like a steady helmsman during a raging sea. The second one is the protagonist Yuzu. She's a really strong protagonist with a distinct and interesting personality. Sure, a lot of potential is squandered by her near obsession with Mei but she's still a really great character. The third and final thing is that the series has finally decided to get serious. The problem that I had with the last couple of volumes of Citrus is that the would operate a sort of rouges gallery of girls that would try and break up Yuzu's and Mei's budding relationship. It got a bit stale but thankfully the last few chapters has been a thankful punch in the gut.
Bright And Cheery Amnesia
By Tamamusi
Status: Ongoing

Really, this image is all you really need to see if you want to know the premise of this manga. It's got a really simplistic plot but it makes up for that with a great deal of warmth and heart. You can't help but read this and not end up smiling like a goddamn fool. It's just that bright and cheery.
Well anyway there is my list I hope you enjoyed it! Oh and before I decimate your pathetic existence I hope you enjoy these various series and...

Sunrider: Mask of Arcadius is one of the best-known and probably most appreciated western visual novels. Developed by Love in Space and published for free by Sekai Project in July 2014, it was downloaded on Steam by around 600 thousand players and spawned a successful franchise, with its commercial sequel, Liberation Day and dating sim spin-off, Sunrider Academy, both reaching impressive sale numbers and mostly positive feedback from the community.
            What’s interesting, Mask of Arcadius is also a hybrid title, possibly more ambitious and refined with its strategy game elements than “pure” visual novel segments. Most likely, it is exactly that part of the game that gave it a much broader appeal than that of typical VNs and made its spectacular success on Steam possible. Does it, however, still have a similar entertainment value for dedicated VN readers, on a much more saturated, diverse market, as it had in 2014?
Read the full review at evnchronicles.blogspot.com
 

Sunrider: Mask of Arcadius is one of the best-known and probably most appreciated western visual novels. Developed by Love in Space and published for free by Sekai Project in July 2014, it was downloaded on Steam by around 600 thousand players and spawned a successful franchise, with its commercial sequel, Liberation Day and dating sim spin-off, Sunrider Academy, both reaching impressive sale numbers and mostly positive feedback from the community.
            What’s interesting, Mask of Arcadius is also a hybrid title, possibly more ambitious and refined with its strategy game elements than “pure” visual novel segments. Most likely, it is exactly that part of the game that gave it a much broader appeal than that of typical VNs and made its spectacular success on Steam possible. Does it, however, still have a similar entertainment value for dedicated VN readers, on a much more saturated, diverse market, as it had in 2014?
Read the full review at evnchronicles.blogspot.com
 

Finished updating old posts. Nothing really interesting is added, so added games comments are very scarce. Main changes are mostly about descriptions for games that did not have one, over 500 new descriptions. Some review/opening/image links changed. Finally, I can move on now. This is the early draft of changes, stopped updating it midway. 
VN of the Month December 2005 - Aekanaru Sekai no Owari ni
https://vndb.org/v22685 - Power Pro Kun Pocket 8
https://vndb.org/v23599 - The Noroi no Game
https://vndb.org/v27013 - Sugar Sugar Rune: Koi mo Oshare mo Pick-Up!
https://vndb.org/v22900 - Mousou Nikki: Joshikousei Hen
https://vndb.org/v26016 - Chained Valkyria -Akashiya no Kyouen-
https://vndb.org/v23124 - Hyouka no Gen'ya
https://vndb.org/v24462 - Kidou Shounen
VN of the Month November 2005 - Sharin no Kuni, Himawari no Shoujo
https://vndb.org/v23460 - Mirugeki 3 Bishoujo Maki Naisho no Taiken
VN of the Month October 2005 - Ayakashi
https://vndb.org/v23462 - Mirugeki 2 Papa tte Yobitai no
https://vndb.org/v24385 - Qu Beifang
VN of the Month September 2005 - Gunjou no Sora o Koete
https://vndb.org/v24864 - Gokujou Seitokai
https://vndb.org/v23903 - Fushigi no Umi no Nadia ~Inherit the Blue Water~
VN of the Month August 2005 - Saihate no Ima
https://vndb.org/v24778 - Final Approach Final fandisk
https://vndb.org/v25938 - Gakuen Tengoku
VN of the Month July 2005 - Swan Song
https://vndb.org/v25128 - Still More
VN of the Month June 2005 - Ayakashibito
VN of the Month May 2005 - Princess Witches
https://vndb.org/v26583 - ETERNITY-The Joker to a Dark Side-
https://vndb.org/v24625 - Counter-Strike NEO -White Memories-
https://vndb.org/v26058 - Majo no Yuigon
https://vndb.org/v25355 - School Navigation!
VN of the Month April 2005 - Sanarara
https://vndb.org/v22864 - Akane
https://vndb.org/v22047 - Kochou Yuukaku
https://vndb.org/v23463 - Mirugeki 1: Imouto -Boku to Asumi no Himitsu Taiken-
https://vndb.org/v23773 - Rondo ~Punyupuri Joshikouhen~
VN of the Month March 2005 - Parfait ~Chocolat Second Brew~
https://vndb.org/v26743 - Iris ~Kimi ga Ita Toki~
https://vndb.org/v23499 - Love Love Fight
https://vndb.org/v23148 - Kochira Memetsuki Onsenkyou
VN of the Month February 2005 - Steel
https://vndb.org/v25146 - The Kanshikikan
https://vndb.org/v25118 - Tsuki wa Kirisaku ~Tantei Sagara Kyouichirou~
https://vndb.org/v26915 - Gakuen Prince ~Fandisc~
VN of the Month January 2005 - Tenshi no Nichou Kenjuu -Angelos Armas-
https://vndb.org/v26265 - Rou ~Kedakaku Gouman na Dansei Fushin Onna ga Seidorei ni Ochiru made~
https://vndb.org/v23774 - Punyupuri SP - Yamiyo no Miko Shokushu ni Otsu
VN of the Month December 2004 - To Heart 2
https://vndb.org/v22681 - Power Pro Kun Pocket 7
https://vndb.org/v25848 - Erumani 2
VN of the Month November 2004 - Planetarian ~Chiisana Hoshi no Yume~
https://vndb.org/v24350 - Reason of Detective
https://vndb.org/v24330 - The Suiri  ~Soshite Dare mo Inakunatta~
https://vndb.org/v24539 - Seikon ~Boku to Meido to Kyouki no Yakata~
https://vndb.org/v24485 - Phantomphobia ~Ikai~
https://vndb.org/v25122 - Tenkuu Danzai Skelter Heaven
https://vndb.org/v26885 - Manabe yo Otome!
VN of the Month October 2004 - Akai Ito
https://vndb.org/v23610 - Ryoujoku Jiken File -File. 1 Renzoku Fujo Shissou Jiken-
https://vndb.org/v24844 - A to 1
VN of the Month September 2004 - Abandoner - The Severed Dreams
VN of the Month August 2004 - Sorauta
https://vndb.org/v24387 - It's So Flogging Molly
https://vndb.org/v26317 - Sankaku Matsuri Vol.1
https://vndb.org/v25159 - Destino
https://vndb.org/v24303 - Harukeki Kawa no Nagare ni Nosete
https://vndb.org/v26071 - Tsuki no Furu Yoru
VN of the Month July 2004 - Dear My Friend
VN of the Month June 2004 - 3days ~Michiteyuku Toki no Kanata de~
https://vndb.org/v25629 - Yokubou no Ori
https://vndb.org/v23364 - Gyakuten Ryoujoku Angel Online
VN of the Month May 2004 - Carnival
VN of the Month April 2004 - Realize
https://vndb.org/v23327 - Tanetsuke Choukyou II
VN of the Month March 2004 - Remember11 -The Age of Infinity-
https://vndb.org/v24318 - Yomigaeri ~Refrain~
VN of the Month February 2004 - Forest
https://vndb.org/v25310 - The Legend of the Deep -Episode4-
https://vndb.org/v22297 - Nurse Witch Komugi-chan Magikarte
https://vndb.org/v26280 - Inran Mahjong ~Nugasare Modaeru Maid-tachi~
VN of the Month January 2004 - Paradise Lost
https://vndb.org/v25266 - Stellvia: Uchuu no Stellvia
https://vndb.org/v26884 - Heian Onshijo Koi Emaki
https://vndb.org/v25215 - Shoujo Taimashi Misato ~Ingoku no Fukushuusha~
VN of the Month December 2003 - Saya no Uta
https://vndb.org/v22680 - Power Pro Kun Pocket 6
https://vndb.org/v24319 - The Saiban ~Shinmai Shihoukan Momota Tsukasa no 10 no Saiban File~
https://vndb.org/v24401 - END OF THE WORLD
https://vndb.org/v24460 - Hotel Bloody Doll Fandisc -2003-
https://vndb.org/v22821 - Futari no Kon'yakusha
VN of the Month November 2003 - Kurenai
https://vndb.org/v23483 - Princess Riesz
VN of the Month October 2003 - Lovers ~Koi ni Ochitara...
https://vndb.org/v25252 - The Musume♥ Ikusei Simulation ~Otousan to Issho~
https://vndb.org/v24459 - Hotel Bloody Doll
https://vndb.org/v24326 - Otoko no Tame no Bible The Yuujou Adventure -Hotaru Soul-
VN of the Month - September 2003 - Cross†Channel
https://vndb.org/v26604 - Shoujo Yoshitsuneden
VN of the Month August 2003 - Natsuyume Yawa
https://vndb.org/v24370 - Tondeke! Nayama Seed
https://vndb.org/v25210 - Officer's ~Onna Sousakan-tachi no Ingoku~
https://vndb.org/v22101 - Sweet Apricot
https://vndb.org/v23001 - Sayurin no Tantei na Hibi
https://vndb.org/v22449 - Natsu Shoujo Summer Disc
https://vndb.org/v24386 - Shuumatsu ni Yosete
VN of the Month July 2003 - Komorebi ni Yureru Tamashii no Koe
https://vndb.org/v26194 - Tristia Dokidoki Operation
VN of the Month June 2003 - Sayonara
https://vndb.org/v23925 - Ore-sama Teacher ~Fukushuu Kyoushi no Web Counseling~
VN of the Month May 2003 - Ashita Deatta Shoujo
https://vndb.org/v25628 - Imouto no Onani
VN of the Month April 2003 - Zanmataisei Demonbane
https://vndb.org/v22295 - Zero One
VN of the Month March 2003 - Interlude
https://vndb.org/v24300 - Akaku Kagayaku Yuki
https://vndb.org/v23841 - Vampire Yui ~Sen'ya-shou~
VN of the Month February 2003 - Routes
https://vndb.org/v24162 - Otogi Story Tenshi no Shippo
VN of the Month January 2003 - Moekan
https://vndb.org/v22679 - Power Pro Kun Pocket 5
https://vndb.org/v25214 - Mahou Shoujo Ai ~Mahou Senshi e no Chinkonka~
https://vndb.org/v24877 - Fukuramikake Returns
https://vndb.org/v23352 - Bijutsu Kyoushi Ryouko
VN of the Month December 2002 - Popotan
https://vndb.org/v23852 - Getchu Ya★Getchu!!
https://vndb.org/v24358 - The Suiri ~Aratanaru 20 no Jikenbo~
https://vndb.org/v22429 - Romancing Kanon ~Eien no Shoujo Densetsu~
https://vndb.org/v24302 - Free Flower
https://vndb.org/v25158 - Bois Hoshikuzu to Tetsukuzu no Niwa
VN of the Month November 2002 - Baldr Force
https://vndb.org/v24706 - Dr. Rin ni Kiitemite! ~Koi no Happy Four Season~
VN of the Month October 2002 - Rocket no Natsu
VN of the Month September 2002 - Masaru: Ashita no Yukinojou 2
https://vndb.org/v24897 - Sold Out Frontier ~Reifu-tachi no Kihin Shakou Ressha~
https://vndb.org/v23858 - Chobits for Game Boy Advance -Atashi dake no Hito-
https://vndb.org/v24713 - Izumi Jiken File
VN of the Month August 2002 - Ever17 -The Out of Infinity-
https://vndb.org/v23355 - Clover ~Shiawase no Layout~
https://vndb.org/v24361 - Suiren
https://vndb.org/v25152 - Bois ~Kikaijikake no Mori~
https://vndb.org/v25212 - DarknessSuppressor ~Onna Taimashi-tachi no Inbu~
https://vndb.org/v24745 - Himekishi Monogatari -Princess Blue-
https://vndb.org/v25455 - Gekka Chou no Yakata
VN of the Month July 2002 - Viper-RSR
https://vndb.org/v24398 - Moon Fox Legend: Little Fox
VN of the Month June 2002 - Kanade
https://vndb.org/v24335 - Metal Wolf
VN of the Month May 2002 - Akane Maniax
https://vndb.org/v25213 - Iroiro ~Ingoku no Yakata~
VN of the Month April 2002 - D.U.O. ~Song for All~
VN of the Month March 2002 - Kikokugai - The Cyber Slayer
https://vndb.org/v22678 - Power Pro Kun Pocket 4
https://vndb.org/v23847 - Tokimeki Nya no☆Getchu!
VN of the Month February 2002 - Kusarihime ~Euthanasia~
https://vndb.org/v24704 - Dr. Rin ni Kiitemite! ~Koi no Rin Feng-Shui~
VN of the Month January 2002 - Princess Knights
VN of the Month December 2001 - Izumo
https://vndb.org/v26659 - Sister Princess ~Pure Stories~
https://vndb.org/v24724 - Hermina to Culus ~Lillie no Atelier Mou Hitotsu no Monogatari~
https://vndb.org/v24301 - Pray to Snow
https://vndb.org/v27131 - Water Dragon Knight ~Anata to no Yakusoku~
https://vndb.org/v27135 - Yozakura no Utage
https://vndb.org/v24546 - Koukou Kyoushi ~Memories of Summer~
https://vndb.org/v27128 - Claire Hikari no Densetsu Meisou no Hanged Man
https://vndb.org/v27081 - Karen
VN of the Month November 2001 - Nijuubako
https://vndb.org/v23361 - Para Para 2
VN of the Month October 2001 - Jisatsu no Tame no 101 no Houhou
VN of the Month September 2001 - Eve: The Fatal Attraction
VN of the Month August 2001 - Kimi ga Nozomu Eien
https://vndb.org/v25906 - TameGirl
https://vndb.org/v25454 - Totsugeki Uchuu Senkan Masrao
VN of the Month July 2001 - Cosmos no Sora ni
https://vndb.org/v27142 - Chinpu Kitan
VN of the Month June 2001 - No Reality
https://vndb.org/v26011 - KID Mix Section Character Collection
VN of the Month May 2001 - Sapphism no Gensou
https://vndb.org/v25901 - TameBoy
https://vndb.org/v22099 - Weakness Hero Torauman
VN of the April 2001 - Mizuiro
https://vndb.org/v22983 - Bishoujo Ren'ai Mahjong Series 2nd: Shiritsu Houou Gakuen: 2-nen Junjou-gumi
https://vndb.org/v22832 - Angel Present
https://vndb.org/v24324 - The Suiri ~IT Tantei: 18 no Jikenbo~
VN of the Month March 2001 - Silent Hill: Play Novel
https://vndb.org/v25243 - Mix Party 2ND
https://vndb.org/v22677 - Power Pro Kun Pocket 3
https://vndb.org/v23760 - Taiho Shichauzo
VN of the Month February 2001 - Tasogare
https://vndb.org/v22427 - Kara: Suzuna Hen
VN of the Month January 2001 - Vampirdzhija Vjedogonia
https://vndb.org/v23945 - Love Hina Party
VN of the Month December 2000 - Never7 -The End of Infinity-
https://vndb.org/v22257 - DiGiCharat Akiba Touitsu
https://vndb.org/v22536 - Air Carrot e Youkoso!!
https://vndb.org/v27093 - Ruriruri ADV
VN of the Month November 2000 - Nijuuei
https://vndb.org/v22982 - Bishoujo Ren'ai Mahjong Series 2nd: Shiritsu Houou Gakuen: 1-nen Jun'ai-gumi
VN of the Month October 2000 - Baldr Bullet
https://vndb.org/v25763 - Nurunuru Shiru Jigoku 6 Insui No Ningyo
VN of the Month September 2000 - Gensou Suikogaiden Vol. 1: Harmonia no Kenshi
https://vndb.org/v27269 - Arc Side Gaiden 2: Mahou to Yuujou
VN of the Month August 2000 - Tsukihime
https://vndb.org/v23944 - Love Hina Pocket
https://vndb.org/v22135 - Remel
https://vndb.org/v27161 - Akikaze no Love Songs
https://vndb.org/v26606 - Yuukyuu Kumikyoku All Star Project
https://vndb.org/v27114 - Ceramic Heart
VN of the Month July 2000 - Shoin, Aruiwa Ushinawareta Yume no Monogatari
https://vndb.org/v24325 - The Sound Novel
https://vndb.org/v25153 - Douboku
https://vndb.org/v22443 - Yokoshima
https://vndb.org/v27095 - Tomoyo Venture Episode2
https://vndb.org/v26468 - Baroque Syndrome
https://vndb.org/v23943 - Sakura Taisen GB-geki - Hanagumi Nyuutai!
VN of the Month June 2000 - Age Maniax ~Isumi Yon Shimai Saigo no Hi~
https://vndb.org/v22323 - Bibou Vintage 2000
https://vndb.org/v22642 - Saint Shirobara Gakuen Petit☆MAHJONG
VN of the Month May 2000 - Purepure
VN of the Month April 2000 - Gyousatsu♥Shinsengumi Hitokiri Bishoujo Adventure
https://vndb.org/v22056 - Believe ~Shitsuyoku no Tenshi-tachi~
https://vndb.org/v8376 - Great Hunting
VN of the Month March 2000 - Eve Zero    
https://vndb.org/v23360 - Para Para
https://vndb.org/v22676 - Power Pro Kun Pocket 2
https://vndb.org/v26268 - Meitantei Conan: Kigantou Hihou Densetsu
VN of the Month February 2000 - Phantom of Inferno    
https://vndb.org/v22981 - Bishoujo Ren'ai Mahjong Series: Karan Koron Gakuen: Pure Love Hen
https://vndb.org/v22418 - Uzumaki ~Denshi Kaiki Hen~
https://vndb.org/v26267 - Meitantei Conan: Karakuri Jiin Satsujin Jiken
VN of the Month January 2000 - Lien ~Owaranai Kimi no Uta~
VN of the Month December 1999 - Elemental Arts
https://vndb.org/v22978 - Bishoujo Ren'ai Mahjong Series: Karan Koron Gakuen: Dokidoki Hen
https://vndb.org/v22980 - Bishoujo Ren'ai Mahjong Series: Karan Koron Gakuen: Mune Kyun Hen
https://vndb.org/v27113 - Kokoro no Tobira
https://vndb.org/v27129 - Conve ~Houkago no Sugoshikata~
https://vndb.org/v24989 - Hirosue Sougou Byouin
https://vndb.org/v27126 - Himitsu Sentai Burning Bunny
https://vndb.org/v27116 - Sentimental Memorial
https://vndb.org/v27115 - Sessou no Yoru
https://vndb.org/v27084 - Prime Sexual
https://vndb.org/v27088 - To Heart CR
https://vndb.org/v24959 - second anopheles 1
https://vndb.org/v27125 - Aurora Hime Higyaku no Makyou
https://vndb.org/v27124 - Heart no Clover
https://vndb.org/v27082 - Furukizu
https://vndb.org/v27121 - Natsu o Shizuka ni
https://vndb.org/v27123 - Chikan wa Yamete
VN of the Month November 1999 - Parts
https://vndb.org/v27120 - Rescue Disk
https://vndb.org/v25992 - Purupuru Magic
VN of the Month October 1999 - Silver Jiken
https://vndb.org/v22350 - Furiman Bibou Hen
https://vndb.org/v26904 - Harlem Beat: You're the One
VN of the Month September 1999 - Kazeoto, Chirin
https://vndb.org/v27094 - Tomoyo Venture Episode1
https://vndb.org/v25229 - BOYS BE... 2nd Season
VN of the Month August 1999 - Tsui no Sora
https://vndb.org/v26327 - Maria 2: Jutai Kokuchi no Nazo
https://vndb.org/v26378 - Magical Kanan - Magical Fantasy Box
VN of the Month July 1999 - Mamatoto ~a record of war~
https://vndb.org/v27176 - Inagawa Junji: Kyoufu no Yashiki
VN of the Month June 1999 - Kanon
https://vndb.org/v26661 - Ren'ai Kouza Real Age
https://vndb.org/v27584 - Soreike Majokko Serika
VN of the Month May 1999 - Comic party
https://vndb.org/v25789 - Seikon ~Inbou Uzumaku Byoutou de Tadareta Soukanzu~
VN of the Month April 1999 - Lipstick Adv.EX
https://vndb.org/v22675 - Power Pro Kun Pocket
https://vndb.org/v26769 - Boy x Boy ~Shiritsu Kouryou Gakuin Seishinryou~
VN of the Month March 1999 - Captain Love
https://vndb.org/v23526 - Sougaku Toshi Osaka
https://vndb.org/v24005 - Yakusoku no Kizuna
https://vndb.org/v27162 - Sanjuusou
VN of the Month February 1999 - Campus ~Sakura no Mau Naka de~
https://vndb.org/v26560 - Den'ei Shoujo Virtual Girl Lun
https://vndb.org/v27079 - Aiiro no Kankei
https://vndb.org/v26566 - Kouyasai
VN of the Month January 1999 - Ikusa Megami
VN of the Month December 1998 - Kuon no Kizuna
https://vndb.org/v27109 - Densetsu no Ato de LoveLove no Shou
https://vndb.org/v26314 - Pureprime -pianissimo-
https://vndb.org/v27089 - Black Album
https://vndb.org/v27087 - Roots
VN of the Month November 1998 - Exodus Guilty
https://vndb.org/v23855 - Neko na Kankei
https://vndb.org/v26018 - Abunai Hyakkaten
VN of the Month October 1998 - Psyclone
https://vndb.org/v25330 - Efficus: Kono Omoi o Kimi ni...
https://vndb.org/v26913 - Sakura Tsuushin
https://vndb.org/v22058 - Kuroi Hamon
VN of the Month September 1998 - With You ~Mitsumete Itai~
https://vndb.org/v24393 - Kaze no Oka Kouen nite
https://vndb.org/v26131 - Dennou Meikyuu Gensou Bouken Yuugi Yurika
https://vndb.org/v26559 - Ren'ai Kouhosei Starlight Scramble
VN of the Month August 1998 - Shiokaze no Memory
https://vndb.org/v25415 - Full House ~Joyuu Monogatari~
VN of the Month July 1998 - luv wave
https://vndb.org/v24062 - 17 Sai ~My Dear Angel~
VN of the Month June 1998 - One ~Kagayaku Kisetsu e~
VN of the Month May 1998 - Diabolique
https://vndb.org/v27080 - Kusairo no Hitomi
VN of the Month April 1998 - Love Escalator
https://vndb.org/v24063 - Find Love 2: The Prologue
https://vndb.org/v27122 - Maou to Iu Ikikata
VN of the Month March 1998 - EVE: The Lost One
https://vndb.org/v26068 - Eberouge 2
VN of the Month February 1998 - Doukoku Soshite...
https://vndb.org/v25110 - Tour Party: Sotsugyou Ryokou ni Ikou
https://vndb.org/v26605 - Yuukyuu Gensoukyouku 2nd Album
VN of the Month January 1998 - Machi
https://vndb.org/v26103 - Datenshi no Sumika
https://vndb.org/v24635 - Mix Candy 3
https://vndb.org/v26102 - Amandine
VN of the Month December 1997 - Universal Nuts
https://vndb.org/v26326 - Maria: Kimitachi ga Umareta Wake
https://vndb.org/v27083 - Gensuishou
VN of the Month November 1997 - Moon.
https://vndb.org/v10382 - Toriko 2
VN of the Month October 1997 - Sweepers!
https://vndb.org/v22868 - Dear Princess
VN of the Month September 1997 - Comic Road
https://vndb.org/v23479 - Eberouge Special ~Koi to Mahou no Gakuen Seikatsu~
VN of the Month August 1997 - Kaeru nyo Panyon
https://vndb.org/v26576 - Koi no Summer Fantasy in Miyazaki Seagaia
VN of the Month July 1997 - Tokimeki Memorial Drama Series Vol. 1: Nijiiro no Seishun
https://vndb.org/v23769 - My Dream ~On Air ga Matenakute~
VN of the Month June 1997 - Zoku Hatsukoi Monogatari ~Shuugaku Ryokou~
https://vndb.org/v26130 - Kakutou Cosplay Ojanko
https://vndb.org/v26511 - Ami ~Shoushin no Tenshi~
https://vndb.org/v26929 - Digital Ange ~Dennou Tenshi SS~
VN of the Month May 1997 - To Heart
https://vndb.org/v27573 - Kojiin ~Kyouki no Ketsuzoku~
VN of the Month April 1997 - Canaan ~Yakusoku no Chi~
https://vndb.org/v26711 - Critical Blow
VN of the Month March 1997 - Ruriiro no Yuki
https://vndb.org/v26565 - Ayakashi Ninden Kunoichiban
https://vndb.org/v24298 - Stand by Say you!
https://vndb.org/v24007 - BOYS BE...
VN of the Month February 1997 - Yatsu no Na wa Diamond
VN of the Month January 1997 - Rookies
VN of the Month December 1996 - Kono Yo no Hate de Koi o Utau Shoujo YU-NO
https://vndb.org/v24366 - Alice In Cyberland Yamiyo No Madoushi
https://vndb.org/v23457 - M ~Kimi o Tsutaete~
https://vndb.org/v26381 - Ars Amatoria
https://vndb.org/v27402 - Instant Clarity
https://vndb.org/v27570 - Minako no Suiyoubi
VN of the Month Noveber 1996 - Mashou no Kao
https://vndb.org/v26522 - Jun'ai Monogatari - Shuugaku Ryokou no Yoru
https://vndb.org/v8979 - Muppet Box
VN of the Month October 1996 - Bounty Hunter Rudy
https://vndb.org/v23481 - Eternal Melody
https://vndb.org/v23324 - Heroine Dream
https://vndb.org/v14583 - Toriko
https://vndb.org/v14512 - Katei Kyoushi
https://vndb.org/v15162 - Ikumoto
https://vndb.org/v21972 - G no Kyokuhoku
https://vndb.org/v27401 - Hokenshitsu no Akuma
VN of the Month September 1996 - Sakura Taisen
VN of the Month August 1996 - Be-Yond ~Kurodaishou ni Mirareteru~
VN of the Month July 1996 - Kizuato
VN of the Month June 1996 - Es no Houteishiki
https://vndb.org/v26521 - Moderate Party
VN of the Month May 1996 - Rouge no Densetsu
https://vndb.org/v26325 - Hanafuda Graffiti Koikoi Monogatari
VN of the Month April 1996 - Harlem Blade ~The Greatest of All Time.~
VN of the Month March 1996 - Mujintou Monogatari 3 - A.D. 1999 Tokyo
VN of the Month February 1996 - DIES IRAE
VN of the Month January 1996 - Ryuuki Denshou Dragoon
VN of the Month December 1995 - Lilith
https://vndb.org/v20887 - Doki Doki Pretty League EX
https://vndb.org/v25169 - Shikimi
https://vndb.org/v25074 - Rinn-chan no Tensei Hakusho ~Meido no Miyagebanashi~
https://vndb.org/v25101 - Momoiro Sankaku ~Riko & Hikaru Hen~
https://vndb.org/v27010 - Hotaru
https://vndb.org/v27022 - Asuka Ayako-chan to Hokenshitsu
https://vndb.org/v27406 - Tantei Imasato Misa Jikenbo Tanpenshuu: Romance wa Shiroku Kiken na Kaori
VN of the Month November 1995 - Eve: Burst Error
VN of the Month October 1995 - Trouble Chaser Dai 4 Wa - Saishuukai
VN of the Month September 1995 - Mime
VN of the Month August 1995 - Isaku
https://vndb.org/v23921 - Shin Youjuu Kyoushitsu Ecstasy Adventure
VN of the Month July 1995 - Kuro no Danshou: The Literary Fragment
https://vndb.org/v9004 - Perfect Blue
VN of the Month June 1995 - True Love ~Jun'ai Monogatari~
https://vndb.org/v9139 - Trouble Chaser Dai 3 Wa - 2 Do Aru Trouble 3 Do Aru
VN of the Month May 1995 - Koihime
https://vndb.org/v27160 - Nana Eiyuu Monogatari
https://vndb.org/v18299 - S.A. 3
VN of the Month April 1995 - Mugen Yasoukyoku
VN of the Month March 1995 - Cybernoid Alpha
VN of the Month February 1995 - Doki Doki Pretty League Dai 3 Wa - Minami no Umi no Kai no Maki
https://vndb.org/v10902 - Poison ~6 Nin no Majo~
VN of the Month January 1995 - Doki Doki Vacation ~Kirameku Kisetsu no Naka de~
VN of the Month December 1994 - Xenon ~Mugen no Shitai~
https://vndb.org/v25076 - Rinshitsu no Chikubi
https://vndb.org/v27158 - Para PARA Paradise
https://vndb.org/v24488 - Bomber Quest
https://vndb.org/v24991 - Dennou Mahjong Tsuushin Tacet
VN of the Month November 1994 - File: Kokubou Soushou Jouhoukyoku Jouhou Rouei Taisakubu Josei Jinmonin
VN of the Month October 1994 - Gao Gao! 3rd ~Wild Force~
https://vndb.org/v24450 - Jikuu Sousakan Pretty Angel Misty Flash
VN of the Month September 1994 - Ai Shimai ~Futari no Kajitsu~
VN of the Month August 1994 - Shinsetsu Ooedo Tantei Kamiya Ukyou
VN of the Month July 1994 - DESIRE - Haitoku no Rasen
VN of the Month June 1994 - Necronomicon
https://vndb.org/v24990 - Adirate
VN of the month May 1994 - Tokimeki Memorial
VN of the Month April 1994 - AmbivalenZ -Niritsu Haihan-
https://vndb.org/v24448 - Cherry Bomb: Chou-ojou-sama Sayaka-chan Nanpa Daisakusen
VN of the Month March 1994 - Mirage 2 - Torry x Neat x Roan no Daibouken
VN of the Month February 1994 - Dragon Knight 4
VN of the Month January 1994 - Fuzoroi no Lemon
https://vndb.org/v8652 - Bell's Avenue 2
VN of the Month December 1993 - Demon City
https://vndb.org/v25109 - LEX Kyonyuu Monogatari
https://vndb.org/v25104 - Gegera no Joshikou Indoka Keikaku! Part 1
https://vndb.org/v25077 - Anna Midaller's
https://vndb.org/v27404 - Tantei Imasato Misa Jikenbo: Itoshiki Onna yo, Satsui no Bishou o
https://vndb.org/v27405 - Tantei Imasato Misa Jikenbo: Sonzai Shinai Futatsume no Shinjitsu
VN of the Month November 1993 - Ooedo Tantei Kamiya Ukyou Vol. 2
VN of the Month October 1993 - Nooch 2 Remy no Gyakushuu
VN of the Month September 1993 - Youjuu Senki -A.D. 2048-
VN of the Month August 1993 - Houma Hunter Lime Dai 03 Wa
VN of the Month July 1993 - Bunretsu Shugoshin Twinkle Star
VN of the Month June 1993 - Can Can Bunny Extra
VN of the Month May 1993 - Nova
https://vndb.org/v18297 - S.A.
VN of the Month April 1993 - Quintia Road 2
https://vndb.org/v25075 - Mahou no Shougakusei Clit-chan
VN of the Month March 1993 - Marine Philt
VN of the Month February 1993 - Cosmology of Kyoto
VN of the Month January 1993 - Mamono Hunter Youko: Tooki Yobigoe
https://vndb.org/v23902 - Fushigi no Umi no Nadia: The Secret of Blue Water
VN of the Month December 1992 - Koroshi no Dress 3
https://vndb.org/v25088 - Beyond the Wall of Stars
VN of the Month November 1992 - Dracula Hakushaku
VN of the Month October 1992 - Ginga Ojou-sama Densetsu Yuna
VN of the Month September 1992 - My Eyes!
VN of the Month August 1992 - Kiss
VN of the Month July 1992 - Phobos
VN of the Month June 1992 - De-Ja 2
VN of the Month May 1992 - Kurutta Kajitsu
VN of the Month April 1992 - The 4th Unit - Wyatt
VN of the Month March 1992 - Sotsugyou Shashin / Miki
VN of the Month February 1992 - Joker II
https://vndb.org/v23259 - Abunai Bunkasai Zen'ya
VN of the Month January 1992 - Himitsu no Hanazono
VN of the Month December 1991 - Gidyy
https://vndb.org/v27021 - Mana
https://vndb.org/v25129 - Momotarou Gaiden Momoko-chan Fight
VN of the Month November 1991 - Psychic Detective Series Vol. 5: Nightmare
VN of the Month October 1991 - Rance III - Leazas Kanraku
VN of the Month September 1991 - Cosmic Psycho
VN of the Month August 1991 - Kimi Dake ni Ai o..
VN of the Month July 1991 - Nike
VN of the Month June 1991 - ELLE
https://vndb.org/v23235 - Crystal Chaser: Tenkuu no Mashoukyuu
VN of the Month May 1991 - Ginsei Senshin Guynarock
VN of the Month April 1991 - Psychic Detective Series Vol. 4: Orgel
https://vndb.org/v26292 - Imadoki Junjou Monogatari
https://vndb.org/v27006 - Sadistic Gamers Part 5 Burusera Play
VN of the Month March 1991 - Jesus II
https://vndb.org/v27000 - Watashi o Golf ni Tsuretette
VN of the Month February 1991 - Akagawa Jirou no Yuurei Ressha
https://vndb.org/v27035 - SAP Tokushu Koudou Keisatsu File:M661-51
VN of the Month January 1991 - Dragon Eyes
VN of the Year 1990 - De-Ja
https://vndb.org/v27004 - Sadistic Gamers Part 2 Otanjoubi Play
https://vndb.org/v27008 - Nenriki Momoiro Yuugi
https://vndb.org/v24736 - Mitsubachi Gakuen
https://vndb.org/v27145 - Yamamura Misa Suspense: Kyoto Zaitech Satsujin Jiken
https://vndb.org/v27002 - Sadistic Gamers Part 4 Rumi no Climb Play
https://vndb.org/v27009 - Angel Commander 2 Gaiden
https://vndb.org/v27007 - Sadistic Gamers Part 1 Shinjinkyouikuteki Play
https://vndb.org/v27003 - Sadistic Gamers Part 3 Telephone Play
https://vndb.org/v27011 - Suijaku Sakusen 2 Moeyo Dragon
VN of the Year 1989 - Imitation wa Aisenai
https://vndb.org/v9383 - Hero Syndrome
https://vndb.org/v22078 - Nishimura Kyoutarou Mystery: Blue Train Satsujin Jiken
https://vndb.org/v27144 - Yamamura Misa Suspense: Kyoto Hana no Misshitsu Satsujin Jiken
https://vndb.org/v26992 - Tenboudai
https://vndb.org/v23495 - TM Network: Live in Power Bowl
https://vndb.org/v27005 - Sadistic Gamers Part 1 Kateikyoushi Play
https://vndb.org/v25543 - SD Toki no Kagi
VN of the Year 1988 - Lipstick. ADV
https://vndb.org/v26991 - Fushigi no Kabe
VN of the Year 1987 - Hiatari Ryoukou!
https://vndb.org/v9450 - Anjela
https://vndb.org/v26978 - Las Vegas
https://vndb.org/v25149 - Yamamura Misa Suspense: Kyouto Ryuu no Tera Satsujin Jiken
VN of the Year 1986 - Gall Force - Eternal Story
https://vndb.org/v26979 - Mahoutsukai no Deshi
https://vndb.org/v27639 - Shoumakyou no Densetsu
VN of the Year 1985 - Shiro to Kuro no Densetsu ~Hyakki Hen~
https://vndb.org/v26956 - Saiyuuki
https://vndb.org/v26954 - Juggler Stone
https://vndb.org/v26959 - Asteka
https://vndb.org/v26957 - Time Zone
https://vndb.org/v26958 - The Count
https://vndb.org/v26997 - Doukeshi Satsujin Jiken
VN of the Year 1984 - Hokkaido Rensa Satsujin: Ohotsk ni Kiyu
https://vndb.org/v26994 - Kuronekosou Souzoku Satsujin Jiken
https://vndb.org/v26983 - Chouhou Buin
https://vndb.org/v26984 - Ginga o Sukue
https://vndb.org/v26985 - Mission Impossible
https://vndb.org/v26982 - Emmy
https://vndb.org/v26980 - Ningyo no Namida
https://vndb.org/v26955 - Southern Cross
VN of the Year 1983 - Portopia Renzoku Satsujin Jiken
https://vndb.org/v26975 - Dasshutsu! Shi no Aokigahara
https://vndb.org/v26965 - Date Adventure
https://vndb.org/v26970 - Mission Asteroid
https://vndb.org/v26967 - Genma Taisen
https://vndb.org/v26968 - Happy Bushman
https://vndb.org/v26974 - Icarus
https://vndb.org/v26996 - Kagiana Satsujin Jiken
https://vndb.org/v26963 - Ninja Adventure
https://vndb.org/v26964 - Puzzle Adventure
https://vndb.org/v26966 - Seiko no Adventure
https://vndb.org/v26969 - Mystery House
https://vndb.org/v26973 - Wizard and the Princess
https://vndb.org/v26975 - Dasshutsu! Shi no Aokigahara
https://vndb.org/v26977 - Nehan no Mori
https://vndb.org/v26971 - Orly Kuukou Satsujin Jiken
https://vndb.org/v26976 - Wonder House

TWO WEEKS AGO: Some bananas happened and then tymmur was murdered and our heroes were too powerless to do something about it because I couldn't write this chapter sooner.
 
    "At least we could strengthen our friendship in the meantime..." contemplated Dreamysyu, sitting in the corridor alongside Dergonu, Mitchnomi and Ranzo. The last time we saw them, they were staring the cursed gif looping at the monitor at classroom 2-B. If they were still staring at it, two weeks later, by now they would have nor eyes nor brains nor anything, as every cell of their body would be as pulverized as an unlucky member of the Avengers. Instead, they got the hell out of the room and decided to have a picnic in the corridor. It was enough time for them to max out all Social Links between themselves, while doing aaaaaaaall the things that good close male friends do together, like drink beer, have sex with each other, tell inside jokes, karaoke, a blood pact and read the h-scenes of euphoria. Actually, scratch that, Ranzo was the only one singing. They started with Bleeding Eyes by Masterplan, but after seeing Rinne's enema h-scene, they're now stuck with a looping Suicide Song by Hatsune Miku.
    "Maaaaan, that was good! But I think we're supposed to do something else now..." pondered Dergonu. Mitchnomi could have explained the rules about the investigation about now, since they were one of the higher ups, and also a bear, but sadly they died of hepatitis B after the blood pact part.
    "Oh yeah, we gotta investigate tymmur's murder! Rest in peace, man..." said Dreamysyu, putting his main character cape once again. With that, they enter the crime scene once again to see...
    ...KURISU-CHAN WATCHING STEINS;GATE 0!
    "...Wait, what? Here too?"
    "Yeah, I noticed that no one was using this room so I invited Kenshin to a two-weeks-long anime marathon consisting of the original S;G and all the released S;G 0 episodes." explained Kurisu.
    "I thought that you did your hackerman thing everywhere but here..." me too, Dergonu.
    "That was right, so I went back in time and fixed that."
    "...Wait, at least you saved tymmur, or any of us, while you did that???"
    "They saved ME, because now I finally catch up with S;G 0!" replied Kenshin, making Dreamysyu feel a bit NTRed.
    "Actually tymmur is right here." pointed Ranzo to the same chair tymmur was last time. Still dead tho.
    "But if the screen now is showing only S;G 0 reruns, what killed him in this timeline?"
    "The same thing, I'm afraid. Check his phone, someone PMed him the thing." said Dreamysyu, quickly averting his gaze before their eyes exploded.
    "Looks like this fic needs the Meaningless Choices tag, 'cause whatever we do, we can't save tymmur." said Senior, creepily appearing behind them. The rest soon followed, led by an angry Maggiekuma trying to put the story back on track.
    "Jumping Christ, I tried to make a Corpse Discovery Announcement but I couldn't even access my own system! I knew I should have put Nayleen in this fic... Oh well, guess I'll have to explain it in person. As I weebly explained last time... do you guys even remember it?"
    "How could we forget?" said Zander, proudly covering his war scars.
    "Gotcha, the thing is, someone is trying to leave this place sacrificing all the remaining students. Sooo what you guys are waiting for? Foil his plan! If the murderer doesn't get away with it, they alone will be punished. The clock's ticking, so let's start this scavenger hunt for clues! No murder is perfect after all, so look for some fingerprints or whatever." Maggiekuma's limited knowledge about detective stuff is somewhat sad.
    "Playing games after one of our mates met such a fate... This is indeed remarkably sick..." Poltroon expressed his disgust.
    "Everything for the views!"
    "I would like to ask how many minutes will we have for this task, but it's probably an indeterminate amount that will end conveniently after all clues were found." Fiddle correctly said.
    "Yeah, works for me! Also, here. ZA MAGGIEKUMA FAIRU! 'All info you couldn't possibly discover just investigating' edition! I'll leave it at the main character's hand! Now, happy hunting!~" Maggiekuma outed.
    "Even if we didn't start anything here, I would like to say that batman is the most suspicious one here. He is always using gifs here after all." littleshogun gave their opinion.
    "Bitch please, that's clearly not barbaric enough to be something made by my hand!"
    "I would say that Kenshin is the most suspicious actually. They appeared here out of nowhere and not many people here have a cell phone with them..." Ranzo continued with the distrusting one another atmosphere for the hell of it.
    "But they have a strong alibi, AKA me." Kurisu didn't want to lose a fellow Steins;Gater.
    "How do we even remember what happened in other timelines?" pondered Virgin, but not really, since he hardly cares anymore.
    "(￣`Д´￣)9" Kiri tried to help clearing Kenshin's suspicion, showing that they have a cell phone as well. And surprisingly, no one started to suspect them, as everyone agreed that Kiri only use his phone to play Kirikoi, tweet and other moe stuff.
    "Guys, instead of trying to guess who's the killer, how about we start investigating? The correct answer will appear naturally then." Lesiak made everyone shut the fuck up.
    "I'm with you. I'm with this feeling... that the cause of his death isn't what it seems. It looks more that all of this... it's just to confuse us." Dreamysyu's not wrong, this fic is hardly cohesive.
    "They'll try to push drugs that keep us all dumbed down and hope that we will never see the truth around!" So come on! Oh yeah, this one I can sing along!
    "I'll help you investigate. Mystery is right up my alley." Virgin suggested a partnership.
    "Oh, let me join too! Just give me a minute to look for the choice that let me join your party!" since it'll take quite some time for Senior to skip his black bible of choices, let's just focus on what the other guys are doing.
    "First, let's read the Maggikuma File. EVERYONE, GATHER HERE!" and they did so.
    "Okay. Name of the victim: tymmur. Time of death: around 11 AM. Age: 79 (maybe more, since he's a wizard). Height: 1,80 cm. Orientation: homosexual. Favorite Musumaker h-scene..." Dreamysyu blue screened for a while. "...What any of this have to do with the investigation...?"
    "Better look at the body directly." Virgin tried to steal Dreamysyu's spotlight, when both of them were alone again.
    "I prefer to collect some testimonies first."
    "And why's that?"
    "Everyone's fictional counterpart in this story is fucking stupid, someone will probably spill the beans if pressured."
    "Fair."
    "Let's start with Clephas."
    "Are you suggesting that I, the Lord of the JOPs, would mingle with you, inferior beings? And just for a senseless slaughter that fails to appease even goddesses such as Ishtar?" Clephas had a point, I don't think Musumaker's h-scenes would please a goddess of sexuality. Since Clephas knew way more h-scenes than Dreamysyu or Virgin, they just leave it to him to calm the gods and kept investigating.
    "Let's talk with Poltroon now."
    "..." Poltroon brilliantly said.
    "What are you even doing, man?"
    "Honoring the memory of our fallen comrade. Let me dedicate this moment of silence to him."
    "..."
    "..."
    "..."
    "Dude, it's way past one minute now."
    "For someone such as tymmur, one minute is not enough. Not a single one of his lines would fit in that interval."
    "...That's something the Ultimate Gentleman would do, I suppose." said Dreamysyu and Virgin at the same time, as they left him alone and went to talk with the others.
    "Sigh... This is going nowhere..." Dreamysyu was trying hard to stay positive.
    "Let's see what we do have. Dergonu, Ranzo and you were together so all of you have alibis. Kenshin and Kurisu have alibis as well. Fiddle said himself, he's the final boss, so I don't think he would try something as early as chapter 3. Kiri seems harmless, but they play moege, suspicious af. Batman and Clephas would probably do something more barbaric than this. I'm not the culprit and that's true 'cause I'm always right. That leaves us with Lesiak, shogun, Blitz, Poltroon, and Zander. Of all of those, Zander is the most suspicious."
    "Are they? I can't remember them doing anything strange..."
    "Just look at him!"
    "Despite my ear damage last chapter, and the damage that my brain sustains every time I found a grammatical error in this mess, I can hear you quite well, Virgin." speaking of the devil.
    "Whatever. What are you so-not-suspiciously doing?"
    "I'm investigating the body."
    "Huh? Someone actually listened to my idea???" Virgin thought that was pure madness.
    "...Enough with the hearing puns."
    "Anyway. Did you find something out?"
    "Oh, most certainly! Look at his feet!"
    "I prefer hips, myself." I'll let you choose who said this.
    "Not like that! Look, they're stuffed right into a bucket full of water together with this electric wire. Thoughts?"
    "I knew the gif was only a distraction! It was a false flag all along!!" Dreamysyu, for the first time in a while, thought that the fic is finally making some sense.
    "Actually, the gif was a big fucking clue, since it was a vibrating gif of an anime girl being electrocuted. A goof from the murderer, most likely."
    "Why no one noticed this before????? And why only his eyes exploded????? What kinda electrocution is that????" Virgin thought otherwise.
 

 
    "Probably because this development was rushed for the views or for the feels or whatever, making it as poorly planned as the game night of someone going through a KEY VN without a walkthrough." salt is the main reason batman worked alone.
    "...Want me to take some pictures to use as evidence?" Kenshin wanted to be helpful.
    "Oh, do that! It's pretty much the only clue I found here."
    "...The ONLY clue?"
    "So. It is time." Fiddle eerily prophesied.
    "I finally found the choice! I just don't understand why I'll join the party if I say "Panties ahoy!" to Kiri..." I think people hardly care about it now, Senior.
    "Ding ding ding, TAIMU APU!" announced Maggiekuma over the monitor, that plotholely was again under their command. "Now hurry your asses over here!" and the asses went there.
 
    NEXT TIME: The first trial! Place your bets now, who killed tymmur?
 
    "..." and that was the sound of Poltroon, still in silence.
    "Enjoy the silence..." sang Ranzo, like any other chapter ending.

Warning: This is review is based on the Steam version of the game, without the 18+ content unlocked. The free uncensored patch unlocks two dozens of CG, including straight-up hentai scenes and adds more nudity to the "clothing damage" system. The "clean" version, however, is still very heavy on sexual themes and can be considered "complete" when it goes to the story.
Among the dedicated fans of visual novels the infamous Sakura games by Winged Cloud are one of the most despised and ridiculed elements of the Western VN market. But, as much as we might not like it, it is also a very popular and in many ways seriously influential series, one that played an important role in popularization of visual novels in the West (and, most likely, did a lot to cement the very poor perception of the genre in the PC gaming community). After the surprising success of Sakura Spirit in mid-2014, with its viral spread all over the Internet and nearly 500k copies sold on Steam, Sakura franchise spawned a huge number of titles – mostly very lazy, relatively short VNs filled with tons of fanservice, uninspired writing and poorly-executed popcultural references. At the same time, the company behind it became unquestionably successful, with decent sale numbers throughout the years and a thriving base of Patreon supporters. 
            The ecchi formula established by Winged Cloud, throwing nudity and mild sexual themes at the player at every possibility while never going into actual pornography, proved once again that in the VN world “sex sells”, even without actual sex or any other merits that the game could offer outside of pleasant visuals. A bit later, the company expanded into the world of actual eroge, adding hentai scenes to their brand of trashy, shallow VNs with paper-thin plots and stylisation. There were, however, two times when Sakura series tried to offer a little bit more than that. The first one was Sakura Fantasy, a yuri VN in which obvious effort at crafting a better story and giving slightly more meaning to the sexual content was appreciated by the players – however, what was meant to be an episodic game, forever stopped at the first chapter. Maybe the production costs associated with actually giving a f*** proved too high? At this point, no one truly knows. The second attempt at innovation on Winged Cloud’s part produced probably the most interesting (and definitely highest-rated) game in the series – the yuri-themed VN/dungeon crawler hybrid called Sakura Dungeon, that I will be taking a closer look on today.
Read the full article at evnchronicles.blogspot.com

Warning: This is review is based on the Steam version of the game, without the 18+ content unlocked. The free uncensored patch unlocks two dozens of CG, including straight-up hentai scenes and adds more nudity to the "clothing damage" system. The "clean" version, however, is still very heavy on sexual themes and can be considered "complete" when it goes to the story.
Among the dedicated fans of visual novels the infamous Sakura games by Winged Cloud are one of the most despised and ridiculed elements of the Western VN market. But, as much as we might not like it, it is also a very popular and in many ways seriously influential series, one that played an important role in popularization of visual novels in the West (and, most likely, did a lot to cement the very poor perception of the genre in the PC gaming community). After the surprising success of Sakura Spirit in mid-2014, with its viral spread all over the Internet and nearly 500k copies sold on Steam, Sakura franchise spawned a huge number of titles – mostly very lazy, relatively short VNs filled with tons of fanservice, uninspired writing and poorly-executed popcultural references. At the same time, the company behind it became unquestionably successful, with decent sale numbers throughout the years and a thriving base of Patreon supporters. 
            The ecchi formula established by Winged Cloud, throwing nudity and mild sexual themes at the player at every possibility while never going into actual pornography, proved once again that in the VN world “sex sells”, even without actual sex or any other merits that the game could offer outside of pleasant visuals. A bit later, the company expanded into the world of actual eroge, adding hentai scenes to their brand of trashy, shallow VNs with paper-thin plots and stylisation. There were, however, two times when Sakura series tried to offer a little bit more than that. The first one was Sakura Fantasy, a yuri VN in which obvious effort at crafting a better story and giving slightly more meaning to the sexual content was appreciated by the players – however, what was meant to be an episodic game, forever stopped at the first chapter. Maybe the production costs associated with actually giving a f*** proved too high? At this point, no one truly knows. The second attempt at innovation on Winged Cloud’s part produced probably the most interesting (and definitely highest-rated) game in the series – the yuri-themed VN/dungeon crawler hybrid called Sakura Dungeon, that I will be taking a closer look on today.
Read the full article at evnchronicles.blogspot.com

Warning: This is review is based on the Steam version of the game, without the 18+ content unlocked. The free uncensored patch unlocks two dozens of CG, including straight-up hentai scenes and adds more nudity to the "clothing damage" system. The "clean" version, however, is still very heavy on sexual themes and can be considered "complete" when it goes to the story.
Among the dedicated fans of visual novels the infamous Sakura games by Winged Cloud are one of the most despised and ridiculed elements of the Western VN market. But, as much as we might not like it, it is also a very popular and in many ways seriously influential series, one that played an important role in popularization of visual novels in the West (and, most likely, did a lot to cement the very poor perception of the genre in the PC gaming community). After the surprising success of Sakura Spirit in mid-2014, with its viral spread all over the Internet and nearly 500k copies sold on Steam, Sakura franchise spawned a huge number of titles – mostly very lazy, relatively short VNs filled with tons of fanservice, uninspired writing and poorly-executed popcultural references. At the same time, the company behind it became unquestionably successful, with decent sale numbers throughout the years and a thriving base of Patreon supporters. 
            The ecchi formula established by Winged Cloud, throwing nudity and mild sexual themes at the player at every possibility while never going into actual pornography, proved once again that in the VN world “sex sells”, even without actual sex or any other merits that the game could offer outside of pleasant visuals. A bit later, the company expanded into the world of actual eroge, adding hentai scenes to their brand of trashy, shallow VNs with paper-thin plots and stylisation. There were, however, two times when Sakura series tried to offer a little bit more than that. The first one was Sakura Fantasy, a yuri VN in which obvious effort at crafting a better story and giving slightly more meaning to the sexual content was appreciated by the players – however, what was meant to be an episodic game, forever stopped at the first chapter. Maybe the production costs associated with actually giving a f*** proved too high? At this point, no one truly knows. The second attempt at innovation on Winged Cloud’s part produced probably the most interesting (and definitely highest-rated) game in the series – the yuri-themed VN/dungeon crawler hybrid called Sakura Dungeon, that I will be taking a closer look on today.
Read the full article at evnchronicles.blogspot.com

Disclaimer: I was provided with a free review copy of this game by the developer. All opinions expressed here are solely my own.
OELVN scene is, for many years now, heavily reliant on crowdfunding, with many small and high-profile projects made possible through Kickstarter and, more and more often, regular contributions of fans on Patreon. While these methods of financing VN development created opportunities that wouldn’t be available to the developers in the past and brought us many memorable titles, they go with their share if risk and problems – weak safeguards guaranteeing the final product delivering on its promises or even being completed at all, being the most crucial one. Crowdfunded projects disappointing their audience, getting stuck in development hell or simply never coming to fruition are at least just as much a reality as they are in the “normal” game development scene. However, in these cases, the consequences are falling mostly on the average backer, who took the double role of the consumer and the investor, hoping for nothing more than a compelling piece of entertainment in return.
           For this reasons, I very much enjoy seeing crowdfunded projects overcoming extreme difficulties and delivering even when everyone pretty much forgot about them or stopped hoping for a positive resolution. Lately, we’ve seen the release and warm reception of AIdol – a game that spent more than half a decade in development, went through both a failed Kickstarter campaign and changes in staff, eventually being claimed by Ebi-Hime, originally only the writer for the project, and released under her name. Today, I’ll look at another long-forgotten project, Pistachi Studio’s Ruler by Default, successfully crowdfunded in 2014 and released on Steam on May 4th this year, exactly 3 years after the initial goal.
Read the full article at evnchronicles.blogspot.com

Disclaimer: I was provided with a free review copy of this game by the developer. All opinions expressed here are solely my own.
OELVN scene is, for many years now, heavily reliant on crowdfunding, with many small and high-profile projects made possible through Kickstarter and, more and more often, regular contributions of fans on Patreon. While these methods of financing VN development created opportunities that wouldn’t be available to the developers in the past and brought us many memorable titles, they go with their share if risk and problems – weak safeguards guaranteeing the final product delivering on its promises or even being completed at all, being the most crucial one. Crowdfunded projects disappointing their audience, getting stuck in development hell or simply never coming to fruition are at least just as much a reality as they are in the “normal” game development scene. However, in these cases, the consequences are falling mostly on the average backer, who took the double role of the consumer and the investor, hoping for nothing more than a compelling piece of entertainment in return.
           For this reasons, I very much enjoy seeing crowdfunded projects overcoming extreme difficulties and delivering even when everyone pretty much forgot about them or stopped hoping for a positive resolution. Lately, we’ve seen the release and warm reception of AIdol – a game that spent more than half a decade in development, went through both a failed Kickstarter campaign and changes in staff, eventually being claimed by Ebi-Hime, originally only the writer for the project, and released under her name. Today, I’ll look at another long-forgotten project, Pistachi Studio’s Ruler by Default, successfully crowdfunded in 2014 and released on Steam on May 4th this year, exactly 3 years after the initial goal.
Read the full article at evnchronicles.blogspot.com

Disclaimer: I was provided with a free review copy of this game by the developer. All opinions expressed here are solely my own.
OELVN scene is, for many years now, heavily reliant on crowdfunding, with many small and high-profile projects made possible through Kickstarter and, more and more often, regular contributions of fans on Patreon. While these methods of financing VN development created opportunities that wouldn’t be available to the developers in the past and brought us many memorable titles, they go with their share if risk and problems – weak safeguards guaranteeing the final product delivering on its promises or even being completed at all, being the most crucial one. Crowdfunded projects disappointing their audience, getting stuck in development hell or simply never coming to fruition are at least just as much a reality as they are in the “normal” game development scene. However, in these cases, the consequences are falling mostly on the average backer, who took the double role of the consumer and the investor, hoping for nothing more than a compelling piece of entertainment in return.
           For this reasons, I very much enjoy seeing crowdfunded projects overcoming extreme difficulties and delivering even when everyone pretty much forgot about them or stopped hoping for a positive resolution. Lately, we’ve seen the release and warm reception of AIdol – a game that spent more than half a decade in development, went through both a failed Kickstarter campaign and changes in staff, eventually being claimed by Ebi-Hime, originally only the writer for the project, and released under her name. Today, I’ll look at another long-forgotten project, Pistachi Studio’s Ruler by Default, successfully crowdfunded in 2014 and released on Steam on May 4th this year, exactly 3 years after the initial goal.
Read the full article at evnchronicles.blogspot.com

Considering I've been seriously slacking off, I decided to talk a bit about my list of both japanese and western vns that remain on high priority for this season. Aside from a couple shorter, english-translated titles (Karakara 2, amongst others), Engima: I have yet to check and a bunch of doujin/amateur evns, this list consists of major games I'm mostly looking forward to this season.
So, without further ado, in order of priority from highest to the lowest:
Japanese titles:
Yougen Tennyo - A demon prince embarks on a voyage through mortal planes to bring his bride from the heavenly realm. Incredibly artsy and very much underappreciated. Otomimi Infinity - Near future, beast people and all the relatable sociopolitical dilemma. Definitely one of the best mimikko games out on the market. Komorebi no Nostalgica - Distant future and androids. This is a cult classic game, residing within the top 10 sci-fi vns of all time. Akatsuki no Goei (whole trilogy + fandisk, wew) - A pragmatic bodyguard and a spoiled ojousama? What could possibly go wrong? English titles:
Lucy - Androids and future, one more time. Highly emotional, western take on a sci-fi story akin to Planetarian. Quite successful. Considering my time is rather limited and I don't want to get stuck in an endless limbo of self-loathing, this is a somewhat reasonable schedule for the next two, three months of my life. I can't hide the fact I'm actually looking forward to Otomimi Infinity the most, considering the game's mostly about themes I currently find entertaining. There are a couple other titles on my backlog which are near the border, but not as near as to actually justify placing them within the list... or at least not until I finish those first. Not saying it might not suddenly change out of the blue, especially since I'm not sure whether Nostalgica is something I'll be able to cope with in terms of my japanese proficiency (I still want to try, regardless).
Be sure to drop me a comment, if you want to hear more or feel like this list is completely wrong and I should be playing other titles at the moment
Also, MFW still no Dies Irae.

LAST WEEK: Dreamysyu was all alone in the school, but not really. They then found a bunch of new friends, but not really. After a lot of bitching, Maggiekuma arrives and gives them shocking news, but not really.
 
    "Of course, I'm only saying da shocking rules... NOW!"
    "I only care about them if everything is allowed." Zander was in a rebellious mood.
    "Whatever happens, the torrents are still not allowed. Let's keep the Fuwa spirit!" said Dergonu, forever trying to moderate.
    "Okay, listen up now! You guys have to kill each other. And if the murderer gets away with it, they can leave this place."
    "................................Did we really wait a full week just for this???????????" I hope Dreamysyu wasn't the only one expecting something more epic in this part.
    "No worries, everyone is waiting for the part where someone dies, as announced." Thank you very much, Fiddle.
    "It is better that way, too. We would not be able to abuse a loophole otherwise." Poltroon was getting ready for the game like the white dot that is a moogle in the image below.

 
    "This guy gets it! And of course, I'll also be able to change the rules as I see fit in the middle of the game..." Totally not because of unplanned plot holes.
    "Sooo, can I kill everyone right now and just leave?" batman the killjoy said.
    "No, I want to hear more about the rules!" To the untrained ear, it looked like Senior just choose the "hear the tutorial again" option because they pressed X so mechanically after the long-winded explanation that ended up picking the wrong option just because it was the one highlighted, but no. He picked the option on purpose, to force Maggiekuma to tell them the details, thus ruining any plan they, Poltroon, batman, and probably Ranzo, were making. That, and because it would unlock one more CG.
    "Ooooookay." Said Maggiekuma in a pout that made tymmur's eyes turn into glittering hearts. "Omaera will kill one hito per week, so this fic doesn't owari that hayaku, and the hitogoroshi will be the kuro. Then we'll do a saiban to found out who's the kuro. If omaera guess correctly the kuro, only the kuro will receive oshioki. But if the guiltless omaera were ooooh so wrong, minna receives oshioki except the kuro, that'll be free to go!" Maggiekuma finishes murdering grammar and making my fingers bleed to type that. Apparently the option also unlocked full weeb language for the game.
    "...Can you repeat that, but now in english?" Zander's ears were also bleeding. But not for long, because Clephas quickly collected it with some gravity-defying powers to give it as a sacrifice for some God as old as him.
    "d(*ﾟーﾟ*)" Kiri, on the other hand, understood everything perfectly.
    "So, happy killing!~"
    "I think I know who I'll kill first..." Kurisu-chan announced proudly.
    "It CAN'T be me." Maggiekuma added, since they were too cute to die.
    "Oh..." At least 8 people went tsk.
    "Of course, kill the shota first. It's always the young and pure anime characters that have to go first... You guys should be ashamed of promoting such stereotyped behaviour against lolis and shotas, just for the sake of you people feeling superior and..." And so the first day on this weird school ended, and it ended before tymmur's speech that totally missed the point that everyone was trying to kill the villain of the fic.
***
    Dreamysyu wakes up in his usual third seat of the roll beside the window, the setting sun coloring their majestic white hair orange. Just with this tiny introduction we can already see how they have all the needed traits to be the Ultimate Protagonist, and that's why we're following them now. They are already used to have a narrator describing every single thought that pop into their head. Like this one:
    "Fuck, I'm on a time loop!" but before they could look for weird kids in a small shrine in the woods, they remembered that the narrator always bulli them, so it was safe to ignore them.
    "Hey, there you are, Dreamy-chan!" said Kenshin, approaching while jumping up and down. Wiggle wiggle, would remember Ranzo if they were around.
    "How's everyone today, Kenshin?"
    "I haven't found everyone yet, but I don't think they changed much, since we have only one greatly exaggerated trait..."
    "I see..."
    "They're probably in the cafeteria already, so we should join them too!" Kenshin almost grabbed Dreamysyu's hand, but Dreamysyu backed. Nevermind the fact that they shouldn't trust anyone so easily in a setting like this, but handholding is a bit too lewd. And they didn't want to enter any routes if both of them are about to die.
    "No, Kenshin, I think... we should keep some distance between us..."
    "Why's that?"
    "We're on this battle royale..." (AN: I almost wrote beetle royale, that would make an awesome alternative version, but that's for some other time)
    "And?"
    "Fuck, that author's note almost made me forget what I was saying. Anyway, we shouldn't be too friendly with each other because... I'm the main character. If we become friends, then you'll probably have a horrible and painful death just so I can angst and go in a roaring rampage of revenge and... It'll definitely not end well for you!"
    "I think you could have a bit more faith in the others." He definitely shouldn't tho. "Besides, I'll be fine! After so many dimensional travels, I finally got the rare dual wield skill, so my strength is unbeatable now!"
    "...........Hey, who's supposed to be the main character here?" Dreamysyu slowly realised maybe they weren't the badass protag, but the average guy one.
    After that, both of them went to the cafeteria. The breakfast was only a bunch of bananas. Everyone except tymmur, Fiddle and Clephas had such a hard time to find a way to eat it in a non-sexy manner that the breakfast became dinner and then the day ended.
***
    Dreamysyu woke up normally because they aren't that stupid to be fooled twice in the same chapter. And the first person they saw was Mitchnomi, pissed because they couldn't do a "good morning message" stream because all the monitors were showing episode 4 of Steins;Gate 0, probably because of some sorcery pulled by Kurisu-chan. Since Dreamysyu didn't want to hear any good morning message in Mitchnomi's voice, they just walked away, letting the rabbit girl cursing behind.
    Back to the cafeteria. Still bananas.
    "At this rate, we'll all die from starvation instead. We have to do something." pointed Lesiak, trying to avoid a pretty lame conclusion.
    "You puny mortals fail to absorb even such a simple and inferior plant... when the time comes, I'll just watch while you are absorbed like these fruits by more advanced species..." Clephas decided to do an armageddon premonition instead.
    "ヽ(ﾟ∀｡)ﾉ" Kiri took Clephas' advice the wrong way and started to use an IV thing to eat, or whatever, the banana. It worked only because it's a fic, don't try this at home.
    "Without the IV part here, Kiri's idea is not bad. We can mash the bananas and eat them here." suggested shogun.
    "The levels of hygiene in your idea, considering what we have here, are touching, please continue." salted Zander.
    "I have a better idea!" said... Maggikuma???
    "Let me guess, here comes another cliffhanger..." smartassed Virgin.
    "Even better. I'll give you guys a MOTIVE for committing murder!"
    "I want to dig your grave. I want to collect your shadow. I want to terminate your body. I want to commit murder!" Ranzo started singing a weird song from some Swedish metal band not known enough for anyone to sing along.
    "...I think we already have enough motives to be honest." but batman wasn't enough to stop Maggiekuma.
     "Okay, if you commit murder now, you'll get this book on "how to eat bananas in a non-suggestive way" totally free of charge! Just need to call!"
    "......................That's the motive???" Kenshin was transitioning to the "leave isekai" arc.
    "Hey, it's not like we d-don't know how to eat a s-simple banana or anything..." Kurisu-chan protested or something.
    "Weeeeeeeell, if you guys don't want it... happy starving!~" Maggikuma poofed out of there.
    "I-it will be fine! I-I'm sure my guide has some choice that says what's the best way... to eat it." Senior tried to make everyone feel daijoubu, but only silence answered him...
    "You need not worry, we will find another way to get the wank out of this sodding contraption." Poltroon ended the conversation, even of no one was sure what he meant.
***
    Later that day, Dreamysyu found Mitchnomi... again cursing the monitors. Wait, was Kurisu-chan still watching old episodes of Steins;Gate 0 (probably yes)? Pitying the poor bunny girl, Dreamysyu decided to help. After calling Dergonu, to use his mod powers to see what was wrong with the monitors, Mitchnomi finally calmed down. Even more after Dergonu found out that one monitor in classroom 2-B was apparently free from Kurisu-chan's tyranny. And the monitor there was very big too, hooray Mitchnomi! The three of them run there, but what they found...
    ...WAS A DEAD BODY!
    tymmur's. His eyeballs apparently exploded and glittering blood was escaping from the holes. No one was supposed to be outside, but you could hear a lot of gays' crying and lolis being relieved. And in the monitor... a single gif, vibrating so violently it would break Fuwa's rules to even post something similar here...    But even then... the three couldn't take their eyes off it...
    "Oh, this reminds me of a song!" entered Ranzo, ruining once again the punchline of the chapter.
 
    NEXT TIME: only 15 students now! Will the group investigate the death properly? And what song did Ranzo remember?

Disclaimer: I was provided with a free review copy of this game by the developer. All opinions expressed here are solely my own.
The themes of World War 2 and Nazi Germany aren’t completely foreign to VNs and manga/anime – some beloved and high-profile titles, such as Dies Irae or Hellsing take a very direct inspiration from Nazi imagery and legends about NSDAP elites’ dealings with the occult. More down-to-Earth war stories are however much rarer in this context – prominent franchises such as Valkyrie Chronicles or Saga of Tanya the Evil not only utilize much less controversial political and military framework of WW1, but also add significant fantasy elements to the mix. Even if their stories touch upon the topics such as the fate of the common soldier and atrocities committed by the warring states, the actual historical parallels in them are pretty thin.
          To apparently remedy this sorry state of affairs, in April 2018 a small OELVN titled Panzer Hearts was released on Steam. Developed by a tiny Finnish studio HELYEES, this game promises a dark story of war, political oppression and romance in an alternate-universe WW2. To this it also adds the theme of tank-building, that should probably excite every military geek such as myself. However, as fantastic as this sounds, can such an unassuming indie game actually deliver on all these fronts?
Read the full article at evnchronicles.blogspot.com