Aokana: Four Rhythms Across the Blue Extra1
- November 6, 2020
- sprite
In Aokana: Four Rhythms Across the Blue Extra1, a visual novel narrative unfolds as characters explore the world of flying competitively with the aid of special shoes. This Steam game is an expansion of the original, featuring additional story content and routes for secondary characters. Gameplay primarily consists of reading through dialog choices that lead to various endings.
Reviews
- Mashiro's character arc is beautifully developed, making her an incredibly lovable and cute character throughout the game.
- The game is filled with heartwarming and wholesome moments, providing a sweet continuation of Mashiro's story from the main game.
- High production values with beautiful CGs and a great soundtrack enhance the overall experience, making it a must-play for fans of the original Aokana.
- The game is relatively short, lacking the depth and length of the original Aokana, which may disappoint some players.
- There is no content related to the Flying Circus sport, which was a significant aspect of the main game, leading to a more slice-of-life experience.
- The price point is considered high for the amount of content provided, making it feel less valuable compared to the original game.
- story138 mentions
- 29 % positive mentions
- 69 % neutral mentions
- 2 % negative mentions
The story of "Aokana - Extra 1" serves as a charming afterstory for Mashiro Arisaka, focusing on the development of her relationship with the main character through lighthearted and wholesome moments. While it lacks deep narrative complexity, it offers a satisfying continuation for fans of Mashiro's route, filled with cute interactions and beautiful visuals. Overall, it is a delightful addition for those who enjoyed the original game, though its brevity may leave some wanting more.
“I can't express enough how I love Extra 1; it's that pure feeling of love and admiration towards the story that drew me in so hard, giving me the courage to take a step into my life once again.”
“For those who enjoyed Mashiro's journey in the original game, the one in the after story will not disappoint.”
“The art style is very high quality and the story, along with the character development, is on point.”
“This story is considerably shorter, unfortunately.”
“Not sure why they bothered putting out something so short that didn't add anything to the main story.”
“Being the standalone 'after story' of the (in my opinion) rather side-heroine Mashiro Arisaka, which already had a lighter story on her route in the base game, the story here is solely slice of life, focusing on the romance the main game had rather little of.”
- emotional30 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The emotional aspect of the game is characterized by its wholesome and heartwarming narrative, primarily focusing on the growth of a budding relationship from the perspective of the protagonist, Mashiro. While the story may not be deeply complex, it effectively delivers touching moments and enjoyable interactions that resonate with fans, making it a delightful experience filled with cute and funny moments. Overall, players find it to be a captivating and fulfilling love story that leaves a lasting emotional impact.
“The whole story is mostly from her perspective and while it isn't that deep or complicated, it is wholesome, which is basically the whole reason we're here.”
“Very good after story of Mashiro's road, with good surprises and very touching moments.”
“If you enjoyed Mashiro during the original game and her route, I had this on auto mode with speed set a little over half and it lasted close to 10 hours. Seeing how much Masaya and Mashiro love each other and try their hardest for each other feels extremely heartwarming.”
- music30 mentions
- 67 % positive mentions
- 23 % neutral mentions
- 10 % negative mentions
The music in the game has received high praise for its quality, with many noting the fantastic soundtrack that includes both reused tracks from the original Aokana and several exclusive pieces unique to Mashiro's route. Reviewers highlight the main theme as particularly beautiful, contributing to the overall immersive experience of the story and art. The addition of a gallery featuring a total of 61 tracks, including new compositions, enhances the game's value and enjoyment.
“The music, CG, and voice acting is fantastic, and there are even several exclusive music tracks!”
“I can't get over how good 皆がいるか (mina ga iru kara) sounds; it's really good, definitely the best OST in Aokana, in my opinion.”
“Most of the music was carried over from the original Aokana game; however, there are other tunes unique to Mashiro's route that are added to the list.”
“After clearing the game once, the gallery is unlocked, where the 50 CGs (including one or another from the main game through flashbacks), 23 SDs, and the entire Aokana OST from the main game plus around 12 new tracks - totaling to 61 OSTs - can be enjoyed alongside the opening and ending movie and the scenes once more.”
“As an expansion or an 'extra', the new OST is rather phenomenal.”
- humor20 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The humor in the game is consistently praised, with players highlighting funny interactions, particularly involving the character Madoka, and a lighthearted tone throughout. The translation effectively captures puns and comedic elements, enhancing the overall experience. Many reviewers found the blend of cute art, funny characters, and wholesome moments to be engaging and enjoyable, making it a worthwhile purchase for fans of humorous visual novels.
“Adorable story with cute art, funny characters, and great music to top it off.”
“It’s short, lighthearted, and sweet while keeping the humor up almost constantly.”
“A lot of funny moments and most of the cast is included and up to their usual antics.”
- graphics8 mentions
- 25 % positive mentions
- 75 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The graphics are praised for their high quality and artistic style, enhancing the storytelling and character development. Players appreciate the stunning visuals that accompany the narrative, particularly during key moments set on a picturesque island.
“The art style is very high quality and the story along with the character development is on point.”
“The story continues onward, with a large goal of a date that takes place in another island, filled with stunning moments and visuals.”
- gameplay8 mentions
- 13 % positive mentions
- 63 % neutral mentions
- 25 % negative mentions
The gameplay in the visual novel is primarily limited to clicking, which does not detract from the overall experience. However, it lacks a competitive mechanic that could enhance the interaction among characters.
“Either way, it doesn't hinder the gameplay in any way.”
“In a visual novel, there is no gameplay to speak of other than clicking.”
“However, this 'extra' doesn't have the competition mechanic that brought these friends together.”
- optimization2 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The game's optimization is praised for its impressive visual performance, which is complemented by a high-quality original soundtrack that includes several new tracks, maintaining the same standard as the main game's music.
“The amazing visual performance is further supported by the gorgeous OST, which features several new tracks that are on par with the main game's soundtrack.”
- character development2 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
Reviewers praise the character development as being well-executed and integral to the story, highlighting its strong alignment with the game's high-quality art style.
“The art style is very high quality and the story along with the character development is on point.”