Because We're Here - Act I
- July 19, 2018
- Studio Elfriede
Get on Steam"Because We’re Here - Act I" is a bittersweet otome dating sim set in a First World War-inspired setting. As neurotic Postal Corps volunteer Elfriede Rauss, navigate the chaos of the front lines while encountering an unexpected challenge: love. This anti-war epic features 20 original CG art pieces and introduces 11 main characters, offering a wide array of potential romantic interests.
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Reviews
- An amazingly well-written visual novel that draws players into its emotional storyline, making them invested in the characters and their fates.
- The game features a diverse cast of well-fleshed-out characters, each with unique motivations and perspectives on war, enhancing the depth of the narrative.
- The blend of humor and dark themes, along with engaging gameplay mechanics like 'battles of wits', creates a unique and immersive experience that keeps players on the edge of their seats.
- Act 1 feels short and more like a prologue, with some players expressing disappointment that much of it mirrors the previously released demo.
- The CG art style clashes with the sprite art, leading to a disjointed visual experience that some players found off-putting.
- The game can be emotionally taxing, with character deaths and dark themes that may not be suitable for all players, particularly those in vulnerable emotional states.
- story165 mentions
- 25 % positive mentions
- 73 % neutral mentions
- 2 % negative mentions
The story of "Because We're Here" is a compelling and emotionally charged narrative set against the backdrop of a fictionalized World War I, focusing on character-driven experiences rather than traditional romance arcs. Players are drawn into a well-researched plot filled with engaging characters, where themes of loss, introspection, and the harsh realities of war are explored, often leading to unexpected emotional reactions. While Act 1 serves as a brief introduction, it sets the stage for a deeper, more intricate story that promises to evolve in subsequent acts, captivating those who appreciate rich storytelling and character development.
“After finishing Act 1, I can say with my whole heart, you will be shocked, hooked, and in love with this amazing story.”
“I've never had a game make me break down in tears as many times as 'Because We're Here' has; it's a strong emotional story that completely ripped apart all my expectations and proved to be better than anything I could have imagined.”
“In short: this is a very well-researched and written story with a wide variety of interesting characters well developed, which captures an atmosphere that isn’t quite like anything I’ve ever seen before.”
“Act 1 is a bit short and generic as it takes the time to introduce the first set of characters in the story (around 3 hours), whereas act 2 is considerably longer with plenty of suspense, thrills, addition and removal of some characters (around 7 hours).”
“The game seeks to drive this point home early on in what was one of the stupidest plot points I think I’ve ever seen in an otome game.”
“I really wish they had just released the whole game as one though because act 1 is just like a prologue to the real story, and if I remember correctly, is exactly the same as the demo.”
- emotional40 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The emotional impact of "Because We're Here" is profound, with players reporting intense feelings of loss, heartbreak, and attachment to characters throughout the narrative. The game’s realistic portrayal of war and its consequences elicits genuine emotional reactions, often leading to tears and deep introspection. Many reviewers emphasize the immersive storytelling and character development, making it a standout experience for those seeking a dramatic and emotionally charged visual novel.
“The emotional impact of the plot is emphasized through knowing and talking to the characters for so long; and I can honestly say I felt a sense of loss and introspection as the war effort progressed in the novel.”
“I've never had a game make me break down in tears as many times as 'Because We're Here' has; it's a strong emotional story and completely ripped apart all my expectations, then proved to be better than anything I could have imagined.”
“I'm not kidding when I say there hasn't been a single piece of media (book, movie, show, or game) that has emotionally affected me as much as this game has.”
- music32 mentions
- 38 % positive mentions
- 53 % neutral mentions
- 9 % negative mentions
The music in the game is generally praised for its excellent selection and emotional resonance, enhancing both dramatic and lighter moments throughout the storyline. While some tracks effectively reflect the game's tone, there are criticisms regarding specific sound effects and music choices during tense situations. Overall, the soundtrack is considered a significant asset, with players encouraged to experience it fully for a richer gaming experience.
“I was not expecting the music and sound design to be this great, but from the very beginning of the game, they blew me away.”
“The music enhances emotionally heavy scenes, and that shows what a soundtrack can do for a game!”
“And the music is perfect – from the very first scene, the usage of traditional classical music perfectly expresses the dramatic moment, and other scenes continue, whether it’s upbeat folk music for the scene where everyone is just so darn excited to sign up to go to war, or sour dirges for when things inevitably go to shit.”
“This visual novel is an indie production using the Ren'Py engine, so it has to rely on the plot and diversity of characters to bring out the storyline, and route variety to make up for the average classical background music and artwork.”
“However, the battle of wits mechanic, while a decent premise, used terrible music and sound effects for what was supposed to be tense situations.”
“The music and sound effects can get loud and startling, at least for me, so maybe keep your volume low if you have sensitive hearing.”
- graphics22 mentions
- 18 % positive mentions
- 68 % neutral mentions
- 14 % negative mentions
The graphics of this visual novel feature a vibrant and emotive sprite art style that effectively conveys the game's tone, though the backgrounds can be somewhat messy. However, the character designs may appear youthful, which could be intentional given the themes explored. A notable critique is the inconsistency in art styles, as the CGs are created by a different artist, leading to a clash that detracts from the overall visual cohesion.
“The sprite artwork is gorgeous and emotive, and the backgrounds, while a little messy, help set the tone and mood wonderfully.”
“Because it really sucks the player in with its colorful art style and witty dialogue, but it's not afraid to explore the darkest aspects of warfare and throws some genuinely unexpected gut-punches along the way.”
“This drama works in contrast with its more light-hearted art style and somehow makes things all the more tragic when everything goes wrong.”
“The CGs aren't that professional, but honestly, I play these games because of the story, not because of the artwork.”
“My only critique is that the art style for the CGs is very obviously done by a different artist, and the style unfortunately clashes hard with the style of the sprites we see for the rest of the game.”
“While I really like the sprite art, I was really disappointed to find out that the CGs are drawn by someone else in a completely different art style (that I personally like significantly less).”
- humor18 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The game features a surprising amount of humor that effectively balances its darker themes, with witty dialogue and dark humor woven throughout the narrative. Players appreciate the protagonist's amusing inner monologues and the clever use of humor in both light and somber moments, enhancing the overall experience without feeling forced. This blend of charm and sarcasm keeps the tone engaging, even amidst serious topics like war.
“There were segments that I had to stop reading because I was too busy laughing at some witty wording, more than a few tears, and even parts where I sat back in slow dawning horror as pieces of a story puzzle came together.”
“While there is a certain amount of grim charm to the game as it progresses, it never gets so angsty and dark as to be devoid of humor or charm (there's some great dark humor in here!) and has a nice side dash of fun sarcasm thanks to our heroine Elfriede and her very amusing inner dialogues.”
“So, this game definitely exceeded my expectations (and got me hooked on WWI, and I can't wait for Act II! Also a funny fact - in the scene where the main character is at the town square with the background crowd noises, there are some people definitely shouting in Russian. I understand why it would be like this, but the immersion was kinda broken haha, but I loved every second of it and was laughing so hard.)”
- gameplay10 mentions
- 60 % positive mentions
- 20 % neutral mentions
- 20 % negative mentions
The gameplay features a unique "battle of wits" mechanic that emphasizes verbal confrontations and decision-making, allowing players to influence key story moments through persuasive dialogue. While the concept is engaging and supported by a diverse cast of characters and flexible narrative routes, the execution suffers from poor audio choices that detract from the intended tension of these encounters. Overall, the gameplay offers intriguing mechanics but could benefit from improved presentation.
“It also has some intriguing in-game mechanics where you engage in 'battles of wits' with other characters (or sometimes it's an internal struggle between Elfriede and herself!) to decide the outcome of key moments.”
“I love the huge cast of characters to get involved with, and the mechanic of changing routes at any point in the story opens so many avenues for the story to progress; I can't help but wonder what's in store.”
“Then there’s the battle of wits system – interestingly for a war game, the real gameplay is actually in debates, where you will have to choose the most persuasive or most accurate response in order to win an argument.”
“However, the battle of wits mechanic, while a decent premise, used terrible music and sound effects for what was supposed to be tense situations.”
- character development10 mentions
- 40 % positive mentions
- 30 % neutral mentions
- 30 % negative mentions
Character development in the game is highly praised, with reviewers noting significant growth in characters even early on, particularly in Act 1. The writing is described as exceptional for an indie/otome release, effectively handling darker themes and cleverly parodying dating sim archetypes to enhance character depth. Overall, the character designs are well-aligned with their personalities, contributing to a rich narrative experience.
“Even within Act 1, you can see some great character development of some of the earlier characters you meet taking place, and I really can't wait to see how everything progresses.”
“In the hands of a less skilled writer, some of the darker themes and character developments in the game could be easily fumbled, but honestly, the writing in this game is some of the best I've seen in an indie/otome release.”
“They're tropey, but as the story unfolded, I saw how the creator lovingly parodies familiar dating sim archetypes and uses them as a setup for further character development.”
“In the hands of a less skilled writer, some of the darker themes and character developments in the game could be easily fumbled.”
“The character development feels superficial and fails to provide meaningful growth throughout the story.”
“While the character designs are visually appealing, the depth of their personalities is lacking, making it hard to connect with them.”
- atmosphere10 mentions
- 20 % positive mentions
- 50 % neutral mentions
- 30 % negative mentions
The atmosphere of the game is described as incredibly immersive and unique, effectively capturing the complexities of life in a historical context reminiscent of Weimar-era Germany. Reviewers appreciate the blend of romanticism and the weight of impending conflict, though some express a desire for lighter moments to balance the heavy mood. Overall, the well-researched narrative and character development contribute to an atmosphere that stands out in the gaming landscape.
“The atmosphere is incredible; I have never felt I understood so well what it could be like living in such a context.”
“I'm reminded of those Weimar artists and poets who described so vividly the romantic, almost party-like atmosphere that swept through Germany before the reality of war came crashing down upon them.”
“I'm reminded of those Weimar artists and poets who described so vividly the romantic, almost party-like atmosphere that swept through Germany, before the reality of war came crashing down upon them.”
“I do hope that her sense of humor comes back in future acts, though, to alleviate some of the heavy mood once she gets more used to the general atmosphere in the trenches.”
“In short: this is a very well-researched and written story with a wide variety of interesting characters well developed, which captures an atmosphere that isn’t quite like anything I’ve ever seen before.”
