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Emi reacted to solidbatman for a blog entry, Little Busters: The Apology
Hello. I am the guy who wrote that review of Little Busters that everyone hated because I did not like the game. Those poor people are doing just fine, however, even with my evil, vile, disgusting review out there still. I, on the other hand, have never been worse off. You see, I've been overwhelmed with guilt. I feel bad for what I did. I took a beloved visual novel, one that has changed the lives of many people, and slandered it with my negative review. Then I continued to ride that infamy I gained into relevancy allowing my hatred of Little Busters! to manifest itself as a false representation of my true opinion of it, much like I am doing right this moment.
The truth about my time with Little Busters! is that I enjoyed the VN. It had some bad routes (like all of them) and had a really unremarkable ending. But can I say I did not enjoy my time reading it? Not really. The 24 hour stream was a blast, and subsequent streams were a lot of fun, especially when people were involved in the jokes and discussion of the routes as I read them. For example, Lewycool's Sexy Seagull Legs during Mio's route was light in an otherwise forgettable, boring route (protip: a character with no personality other than "I like books" is not a recipe for a fun route) and allowed me to actually have fun with the route. Likewise, discussions of Kurugaya's Balloon Tits carrying me off into the sky made her Bill Murray wannabe route more enjoyable. Refrain was a blast to read right up until the ending. I didn't hate Rin and simply wished we saw far more development from her than what we got. She was a fun character.
The experience of reading Little Busters! was good. I had a good time. While my opinions on Little Busters! remain the same, that it is a bad VN (not horrid at least), I do not regret the time I spent on it and I sometimes wish I could read it over again on stream with everyone like I did before.
So, I owe everyone an apology. I'm sorry your favorite VN is so shit I had to bring in friends to enjoy it instead. I can't wait to get my hands on the official Rewrite release in 600 years.
Also, a review of an InvertMouse VN is coming very soon to this blog near you, assuming I'm not blocked first.
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Emi reacted to bakauchuujin for a blog entry, Picture of all my physical visual novels
Here are pictures of all of my physical visual novels.
Some of these I have already done a review of while the others are planned to at some point get a review once I have read them.
There are also going to be more visual novels added here in the future. For instance have I backed physical tier of kickstarter for Island, Momoiro Closet and Newrin as well as having pre ordered the complete box for Grisaia.
Some of my english visual novels
More of my english visual novels
Grisaia complete box
Aokana
Nekopara vol 4 and Sengoku Rance
My english visual novels with nsfw cover
English Console VNs
Japanese visual novels for PC
More japanese visual novels for PC
Some more japanese physicals, some of them have NSFW box
My japanese visual novels for PS Vita
My japanese visual novels for PS3 and PS4
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Emi reacted to Clephas for a blog entry, A few Thoughts on VN Trends
Before I go visit my remaining grandparents this weekend (my grandmother on my father's side and grandfather on my mother's side are both in extremely frail condition right now, so we are taking time to show my sister's kid to them), I thought I would give my thoughts on modern VN trends.
Charage aren't going anywhere
Though I frequently bash the industry for over-saturating the market with moege/charage/SOL, the fact is that the demand for this type of VN is never going to go away as long as the Japanese eroge VN market exists. Why? Because it is the single easiest way to present the formation of relationships of young people into a sexual one. While the genre isn't that attractive for people in their late teens or early to mid-twenties (incidentally the reason this market is declining), the majority of any older generation is always going to prefer this. The lesser numbers of young people in Japan compared to my generation and the lower relative amounts of income are the main reasons for the current contraction of the genre.
Good Writers don't go into VNs anymore
This is a truth that few of the plotge addicts like me want to admit. Most of the best writers in the VN industry are getting into middle age or later now (or have already left it), and the new and upcoming writers are mostly up and coming LN writers who have a far looser grasp on how to write/narrate and (more importantly) complete a story. This doesn't mean they won't evolve their styles to match the new medium eventually, but whenever I've read a VN written by one of these newbies, the plot holes and poor handling of the endings of their games stand out painfully.
Chuunige are in decline
I absolutely hate to say this. However, it needs to be said. Trends in the last nine years in chuunige have tended to result in far too much side-story exploitation and sequelitis. There is also a distinct lack of innovation, and when innovation does come, it tends to come with a huge drop in quality in the final product (Sora no Baroque). Fans of the genre are getting older, and some companies (such as Light) have been putting their games in non-ero form on consoles to try to grasp the hearts of younger VN lovers (this has actually succeeded to an extent), but the fact is that it takes a much longer time for a chuunige company to make back its investment after a release. This is exacerbated by economic issues in Japan, and the fact that these companies mostly suck at advertising (like many niche genre companies, they only put it up in places where those already 'in the know' will find them).
VN Trends are always years behind the rest of Otaku-dom
VN communities in Japan are insular. Even moreso than they are in the US. When rom-com anime vanished for the most part at the end of the last decade, it was replaced with cheap action-fantasy (shallow, weaker stories for the most part, with more emphasis put on 'cool' elements) and moeblob. The glut of such anime is reaching its peak right now... and that influence is starting to overflow (interpreted through the lens of the hyper-conservative VN community, of course) into our side of things. That said, this is a trend that is unlikely to take hold, because it requires a modicum of writing skill that doesn't involve dialogue, and most VN writers just don't have that. Instead, VN companies that have been around for a while have been 'testing the waters' by making games that step out of their usual niches, hoping to diversify to deal with the changing trends. Light went with going down a much darker path than usual with its most recent game, and Navel actually put up a half-assed plotge last month. These, along with many other incidences in the last two years, make me wonder just what the market will look like five years from now.
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Emi reacted to kivandopulus for a blog entry, Updated
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
-
Emi reacted to Zakamutt for a blog entry, On Moderation and the Validity of Unenforced Standards
The problem
While spurred by recent events, this essay touches on something that seems to have been a pattern in site moderation for some time now.
Let me make a claim: if a rule, especially one that is vaguely worded, is not enforced, for a decent amount of people that rule does not exist. This nonexistence integrates into the mental model of the rules that forum members construct, no matter what the formal rules may say. For members using this mental model, beginning to enforce a rule that was previously unenforced is equivalent to creating a new rule. As such, the same procedures as those used to notify forum members of new rules should be applied, possibly with some adaptation on the lines of "we will now actually enforce this rule", as the rule effectively did not previously exist.
The ur-example of this is the loligeddon of yore. The takeaway from the loligeddon when it comes to this essay is this: mods repeatedly stated that no rules had actually been changed. Yet nevertheless the appearance and subsequent removal of a particularly problematic post sparked sweeping policy changes, a cleanup operation, a tl;dr post by the administrator explaining the changes, et cetera. This should make it clear that changing policy is a big deal, even if no written rules actually change.
Recent policy changes, however, have been very different from what happened during the loligeddon. Frequently the only indication that effective rules have changed has been moderator action, sometimes fairly strict. In essentially all cases this action has been explained either inadequately or, most commonly, not at all. When this occurs the target(s) of moderation will likely feel that they have been unfairly, erratically targeted by a capricious, uncommunicative bully. What do you do when you get bullied? Well, you could talk to HR, but the mod that bullied you is probably in HR anyway and you might not even know who did it. Another option is to fight back. You annoy me, I pay you back in kind - and if I can get some fun at your expense, sure, why not? You're a bully, you deserve it.[1]
I do not mean to suggest that we need to have a tl;dr writeup every time a rule is changed, but a simple statement of intent would be appreciated. I estimate that writing this should take no more than 20 minutes. As an example, here's a hypothetical notice regarding the changing of rules on gifs that took me ~10 minutes to write. Note that the policy mentioned here could be reversed or altered to be more specific if it turns out that it was unclear or did more harm than good, which is arguably more difficult to do if the rule has been made official.[2]
In the light of this, I would like to present some recommendations.
Recommendations
When moderating, consider if your action is effectively creating or modifying rules
Remember: in the minds of some of your users, unenforced rules may as well not exist. If you decide to moderate something that was previously typically not being moderated, this will cause confusion and consternation.
As such, whenever you make a decision, ask yourself: am I changing the rules? If so, you need to consider both whether your action is actually justified, and how you are going to inform the public of your policy change. You are not a cop, you are a judge in a precedent-setting court. This is especially true due to the (understandable) current policy of supporting other mods' decisions near unconditionally.
Do not make controversial decisions when following up is difficult
On some occasions moderators have moderated while on vacation, using their phone, with bad connections et cetera. I strongly recommend against making anything close to a controversial decision in these conditions. You will end up both ruining your vacation and doing a bad job.
Talk first, shoot later
If you are performing a moderator action which reasonably should include notifying the target of the action, write up the informative PM or otherwise establish communication before enforcement. You could also consider writing up the notification of intent to change / differently enforce / clarify rules before moderating. Most of the time nobody is harmed much by leaving something up until you can handle it properly. For things that require more urgent management such as a fast-evolving derailment, consider either using a PM template for 1-2 people or making a post stating that you have removed derailing posts in the thread you moderated.
Make people feel heard
One key theme of this essay is the importance of communication. This extends beyond just notifying people of changes to the rules. I am under no illusions that your actions will go uncontested or that people won't meme and fling shit at you even if you try your best to communicate as advised in this essay. In part this is due to the frustration some people, and certainly I myself, consider you responsible for creating due to your actions up to this point. However, when hostility meets well-practiced civility its fires often run out of fuel. If you constructively engage with those who would oppose you, you can both soothe their frustration and create better, more precise final rules.
Obviously there has to be a limit and ultimately you set the rules to follow. But explaining, refining, and justifying your position elevates it from that of a dim-witted bully with little justification for their actions to someone who has a well-grounded but different opinion of what the rules should be. The first one deserves punishment, the second, grudging respect.
As a personal observation: in general, you should assume that much less of your decisions are obviously justified than you currently think. One man's common sense is another man's borderline acceptability is another man's utterly idiotic rule enforcement.
Moderation is a hard job
If this all seems like a lot of hard work to you, congratulations! That's what I thought too when the mod applications came along, so I didn't apply. Any moderators that cannot actually moderate disputes should either confine themselves to routine, uncontroversial moderation tasks or step down from their position. Believe me, nobody will die either way, and you'll get to spend your free time doing something that suits you better.
Notes
[1]
I personally don't consider the mods bullies when I do this kind of thing, but I do consider them deserving of public ridicule. The intention is both to correct behaviour and to extract some entertainment out of people that deserve to be made fun of.
And yeah, I have no respect for authority. None. I will judge you by your actions alone.
[2]
This is an assumption based on my conception of normie considerations like pride, sticking with your decision, whatever.
Obviously if a rule does more harm than good it should be removed whether or not it was enforced temporarily, but it is probably easier to do so politically if it was in fact considered temporary.
Look, I'm trying desperately not to kill all normies every day here. Give me a break.
-
Emi reacted to Darklord Rooke for a blog entry, Sakura Spirit Writing Critique - An Introduction
For those that don’t know, the other day some villains ambushed me and they gave me a task – to produce a writing critique of Sakura Spirit. This, they say, will entertain the masses and provide much mirth for those on Fuwa. It is a task I went into full of hubris.
But first some background. Sakura Spirit is an English developed Visual Novel with extroadinarily pretty art, and yet it suffers from a horrible reputation. A reputation even more repulsive than those terribly translated, doujin, nukige abominations Mangagamer spews forth. The mere mention of this title produces hisses and insults from nearby people, reactions you’d usually only hear if you gatecrashed a teenagers party. Dressed in only a bathrobe and slippers. Shouting that it was past your child’s bed-time, you were here to collect them, and had anybody seen them?
There’s very few people or institutions that could release something so aesthetically beautiful only to produce such disgust in the public, and my money’s on the Government.
And so I went into this challenge supremely confident, reassured by the knowledge that the Government has never done anything right. I would be gifted a game that was completely horrid, and I would need to apply only a minisule amount of brainpower to produce a detailed critique. How misplaced a feeling this was!
But onto specifics, why the uproar over such a beautiful looking game? Well, there’s 4 reasons: there’s no plot, it’s a game about sex but there is none, it’s an English developed visual novel with Japanese words and phrases sprinkled everywhere, and the writing is horrid. So the only positives to the game are the pretty art, and the fanservice.
But surely gamers are a smart species, they wouldn't fork over good money just because of some large, oil-smeared boobs, am I right? That would be like watching NASCAR for the crashes, or watching a foreign film to laugh at the funny mistranslations in the subtitles.
But I was wrong. Over 100,000 people own Sakura Spirit, and that’s more than the entire voting population of Aruba. And most of them appear to have thoroughly enjoyed themselves, if the review system on Steam can be taken at face value.
Which it can’t.
But here’s the thing, if a small indie studio can sell over a hundred thousand copies just by including some nice art, and sprites with reflecting boobs, then there’s no incentive to provide a decent story or good writing. Writing takes time, and good writing even more so, and if there's little monetary reward to head down that path then people won’t.
But unlike Winged Cloud, Sekai Project is a production studio and DO have a professional reputation to maintain. In response to the uproar they made some apologetic sounds and issued some vague promises on Reddit. They said they asked Winged Cloud to “improve the grammar and writing” and have since “changed their QA procedure”. But despite their revamped QA procedure the situation repeated itself with Nekopara, another awfully pretty game that was obviously translated by the Government. This didn’t bode well for their first promise.
So over the next few weeks (Fuwa time) I will analyse the game’s writing to find out how much it has improved, and what writing issues are still included in the script. Obviously they wouldn't have been able to shoe-horn in a plot, or much additional character development, but what have they improved and how bad is the writing in its current form? Is Sakura Spirit finally worth purchasing or is it still nothing more than a glorified erotic CG gallery… with no actual porn?
That’s what we’ll find out.