Seasons of the Sakura

"Words Can’t Describe The Beauty"

Seasons of the Sakura (SotS) was one of the first h-games I ever played, and I accidentally found it when I was looking for an anime game. Rather than being disgusted with the content and nature of the game, I was oddly intrigued. Other games of this genre didn't appeal to me, but this one did for the reason that there was almost no h-scenes. And the ones there were they were all at the end of the game...

Graphics
9/10
Although there is little to no animation in this game, the graphics for the time were pretty snazzy. Each person looked unique, even if they looked like they were stolen from animes, and each were proportionate and excellent-looking. Environments are vibrant and awesome, the images will stick with you for years to come, I can guarantee.

Sound
8/10
Even though this is hardly considered an important part of any h-game, it still plays a fine role in SotS, always on queue and always sounding as if it fits. The environments are only benefited from the great midi soundtrack, even if it there is a major lack of sound effects.

Gameplay
7/10
As in any h-game, there is the standard multiple choice menu where you decide what you want your character to do. The interface shows a list of verbs, such as “look” “touch” and “talk to”, and you decide what you want to do, only to trigger an event by pressing the right action. The story continues when you press the correct action button.

Story
10/10
Here's where the game really shines. Like most of the games in the genre, you play as a young man going through prep school, the school Japanese go through before college. Unlike most games of the genre, you're not a fetish-seeking, sex-monster. Actually, you play the role of a normal guy, Shuji. Shuji just wants to get through with his life, and though it may sound a little boring, there is almost no objective in this game. Shuji doesn't exactly want to get some with any of the girls, nor does he feel the need to do much of anything. Shuji is your average person, blessed only with superiority in looks and physical abilities. For some strange reason, he seems to attract many girls, and there's where incentive to play is, isn't it? Anyway, the point is, the story is beautiful, as you go through everyday life with an awesome guy and eight awesome girls.

Overall
10/10
Without a doubt, if you're just breaking into the genre or you've been a vet for a long time, you should play this game. The amazing story will leave you grinning from ear-to-ear when you finish the game, or put you in tears, as it leaves you feeling happy and great. Only good nostalgia comes when you play it again, and everyone likes nostalgia, right? Great game, my favorite actually, so play it. Seriously.

Reviewer's Score: 10/10, Originally Posted: 05/23/04