Ciconia When They Cry - Phase 1 For You, the Replaceable Ones

The music in "Ciconia: Phase 1" has received mixed reviews, with many noting that while it features some standout tracks, it falls short of the extensive and memorable soundtrack found in "Umineko." Critics have pointed out the reliance on royalty-free music and a lack of variety, leading to a less impactful auditory experience overall. However, the music is still considered fitting and enjoyable, contributing positively to the game's atmosphere despite its limitations.

The graphics in the game have received praise for their improved quality, featuring a distinct Ryukishi07 art style that boasts more texture, depth, and vibrant colors compared to previous titles like Umineko and Higurashi. While the character designs are expressive and detailed, some players noted that the integration of 2D graphics in a 3D environment is less effective here, and character animations are somewhat limited. Overall, the visuals enhance the storytelling experience, although the game contains graphic content that may not be suitable for all audiences.

The atmosphere in "Ciconia: When They Cry" is praised for its powerful and immersive quality, effectively setting the tone from the outset with well-crafted writing and unique character introductions. While the background music, though mostly royalty-free, is thoughtfully selected to complement the game's ambiance, it may not reach the grandeur of previous titles like "Umineko." The filtered-photograph backgrounds further enhance the warm, post-WW3 setting, creating a distinct atmosphere that differs from earlier entries in the franchise.

The humor in the game is noted for its effective pacing, often juxtaposed with tension, creating moments of levity before climactic scenes. Characters like Naima and various quirky personalities contribute to the comedic elements, making the experience surprisingly funny at times, despite the emotional weight of the narrative. Overall, the humor is described as both clever and unexpected, enhancing the game's overall impact.

The gameplay of [i]ciconia[/i] is characterized as a kinetic novel and visual novel, meaning there are no player choices or traditional gameplay mechanics involved. Players engage primarily with the story through text and visuals, with no interactive elements to influence the narrative.

The emotional aspect of the game is highlighted by its wholesome storytelling and character-driven moments, particularly in scenes like the monster cafe, which resonated with players. However, some found the repetition in dialogue to detract from the overall emotional engagement, expressing a desire for deeper character exploration in future phases to enhance the emotional impact.

Character development in this game is generally viewed as lacking, with most reviewers noting that it is overshadowed by the story and setting, particularly when compared to previous titles by the same writer. While the main character receives some attention, secondary characters do not experience the same depth, leading to a less satisfying overall experience.

Players find the grinding aspect of the game to be tedious, with a significant amount of exposition that detracts from character interaction. The content, lasting only 9-12 hours, feels uneven and is criticized for its post-credits unlock system, which adds to the overall grind. At a price point of $40, many feel it does not justify the experience.