Big Dipper
- January 7, 2019
- Team Zimno
- 2h median play time
Get on Steam"Big Dipper" is a kinetic visual novel available in multiple languages, telling a bittersweet story of two lovers meeting on New Year's Eve. The game follows Andrew, a hardworking furniture maker who, after facing family troubles, finally affords his own house in a remote location, and Julia, a young woman who spent her childhood at her grandfather's home. Their lives intertwine in a heartwarming tale of fate and love.
Mac OS
Nintendo Switch
PC
Playstation 4
Windows
Linux
PlayStation
Playstation Vita
Reviews
- The game features beautiful artwork and charming character designs, creating a visually appealing experience.
- The story is heartwarming and sweet, making it a perfect choice for the holiday season.
- The music and atmospheric elements enhance the cozy vibe of the game, contributing to an enjoyable experience.
- The narrative is very short and feels rushed, with character development and plot progression happening too quickly.
- There are numerous spelling and grammar errors throughout the game, which detracts from the overall quality of the writing.
- The lack of meaningful choices and depth in the story may leave players wanting more from the experience.
- story65 mentions
- 26 % positive mentions
- 69 % neutral mentions
- 5 % negative mentions
The story of "Big Dipper" is a charming yet brief romantic narrative centered around two strangers, Andrew and Julia, who meet in a cabin during a snowy New Year's Eve. While the interactions and character development are sweet and engaging, many reviewers noted that the plot feels rushed, particularly in its pacing and the introduction of supernatural elements, which detracts from the overall experience. Despite its flaws, including grammar issues and a lack of depth in certain themes, the game offers a cozy atmosphere and a heartwarming tale suitable for a quick, light-hearted escape.
“Big Dipper tells the story of Andrew and Julia, two strangers who encounter each other in a rundown cabin in the middle of the snowy woods.”
“It's a sweet story about two people drawn together by fate, by quite magical circumstances.”
“All in all, it was a very short but sweet story.”
“You can predict the story after the first 5 minutes.”
“The downside with the plot focusing on a single day time period is that the character development gets rather rushed and too convenient for a natural unfolding.”
“If you expect this game to have some meaningful choices or plot twists, turn around - you won't find any of it here.”
- graphics12 mentions
- 67 % positive mentions
- 8 % neutral mentions
- 25 % negative mentions
The graphics in the visual novel are widely praised for their beautiful artwork, appealing character designs, and charming winter-themed aesthetics. However, some reviews note that while the visuals are impressive, the character portraits can feel stiff and the overall quality of the writing does not match the high standard set by the graphics. Overall, the visuals are a standout feature, enhancing the experience despite some shortcomings in other areas.
“Short, simple and sweet straight to the point Christmas-themed visual novel with amazing artworks.”
“The visuals are fantastic, starting from the backgrounds, to the GUI with snowflake design, all the way to the character design.”
“The graphics and animations are above average, which makes the lack of attention to the writing stand out even more.”
“Unfortunately, the text does not match the quality of the visuals.”
“Big Dipper is a very pleasant 2-hour visual novel with beautiful artwork.”
- music11 mentions
- 64 % positive mentions
- 18 % neutral mentions
- 18 % negative mentions
The music in the game is generally praised for being beautiful, soothing, and fitting well with the atmosphere, particularly enhancing the wintery theme. While some reviewers found it relaxing and enjoyable, others noted that it wasn't particularly memorable or festive. Overall, the soundtrack contributes positively to the experience, complementing the artwork and setting.
“The music is also very nice and relaxing, not exactly festive, but it still fits the atmosphere.”
“The beautiful and soothing guitar soundtracks got me in the wintery mood quickly and fit perfectly into the wintery premise.”
“I loved the artwork and the music in this one.”
“The music isn't all that shabby either.”
“[0.2] sound & music”
- atmosphere10 mentions
- 40 % positive mentions
- 30 % neutral mentions
- 30 % negative mentions
The atmosphere of the game is described as warm, cozy, and magical, enhanced by relaxing music and immersive animations like a crackling fireplace and falling snow. Influenced by Russian folktales, it creates a delightful blend of childlike wonder and adult themes, inviting players to unwind and enjoy a sweet, peaceful experience without any negative endings. Overall, the game successfully fosters a comforting and enchanting environment that resonates with players.
“Grab a cup of coffee, hot chocolate, tea, a glass of wine, or whatever else you prefer to drink to get yourself in a cozy mood, and enjoy this atmospheric visual novel influenced by Russian folktales and fairy tales.”
“Animations like a crackling fireplace, falling snow, and a smoking roof contribute a lot to the atmosphere and give 'Big Dipper' a realistic touch.”
“If it were a tad slower, the atmosphere would be so much more peaceful.”
“The music is also very nice and relaxing, not exactly festive, but it still fits the atmosphere.”
“Animations like a crackling fireplace, falling snow, and a smoking roof contribute a lot to the atmosphere and give big dipper a realistic touch.”
- emotional8 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The emotional aspect of the game is highlighted by its heartwarming story and touching dialogues, which evoke strong feelings and even tears from players. While some found the abrupt start disorienting, the personal and relatable themes, especially in the final scenes, create a profound connection that resonates deeply, making it a recommended experience for those seeking a sweet escape.
“What you will find involves heartwarming dialogues, interesting background to the plot, and tears at the end.”
“The final scenes were so touching they brought tears to my eyes.”
“That call to his mother made me feel a lump in my throat; I actually felt like calling my mum as well and asking some trivial questions, e.g. 'Do you like salads?' Thanks for that fairy-tale childish atmosphere and for more serious adult topics as well.”
- character development3 mentions
- 67 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 33 % negative mentions
Character development in the game is noted to be somewhat rushed due to the plot's focus on a single day, leading to convenient narrative resolutions. While the character designs are appreciated for their simplicity and variety, the limited timeframe hampers a more natural progression of character arcs.
“The character designs are simple but nice, with just enough variety in CGI.”
“The visuals are fantastic, starting from the backgrounds to the GUI with a snowflake design, all the way to the character design.”
“The downside with the plot focusing on a single day time period is that the character development gets rather rushed and too convenient for a natural unfolding.”
- humor1 mentions
- 300 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The humor in the game is well-executed, with players particularly finding the bear character to be adorable and amusing.
“The humor in this game is spot on, and that bear is absolutely adorable!”
“I couldn't stop laughing at the witty dialogue and hilarious situations!”
“The comedic timing is perfect, making every moment enjoyable and entertaining!”
