Kokorogawari
- August 30, 2018
- Precatio
Get on SteamKokorogawari (Change of Heart) is a GxB otome human drama visual novel set in a grounded and authentic portrayal of modern-day Japan. While the two main themes are about love and the arts, Kokorogawari also explores the complexity and depth of familial relationships and emotions.
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Reviews
- The artwork and music are beautiful, enhancing the overall experience of the game.
- The writing is well-crafted, with relatable characters and a compelling storyline that resonates with players.
- The game features a realistic portrayal of relationships and character development, particularly with the main character Asami.
- The choices in the game often feel inconsequential, leading to frustration when trying to achieve desired endings.
- The pacing can be long-winded, with certain scenes dragging on and causing players to skip through content.
- The price feels steep for the current amount of content, especially with the absence of a promised additional route.
- story22 mentions
- 18 % positive mentions
- 68 % neutral mentions
- 14 % negative mentions
The story follows college student Asami as she navigates her relationships and personal challenges, particularly her emotionally distant nature and her connection to art, which serves as a vital outlet for her feelings. While the narrative is praised for its depth and character development, some reviewers noted that certain plot twists, particularly in Shinichi's storyline, could have been handled more thoughtfully, leaving a somewhat unresolved tone. Overall, the storyline is considered well-researched and engaging, enhancing the player's emotional investment.
“It tells the story of college student Asami and the challenges she faces in life - from navigating her relationships with love interests and family, to dealing with her own emotionally distant personality (she's a total tsundere and I dig it).”
“Some otomes might just use it as a backstory like 'mc is an art student' as a way to move the story along, but KKG really illustrates how Asami's relationship with art is a large part of who she is, especially as she uses it as an outlet to express emotions she has a hard time understanding herself.”
“It made the story feel well researched and more personal.”
“The only issue with the story that really bothered me was one of the twists you find out in the common route.”
“While I get that it explains more about Asami's personality, I don't think it's a twist that should be used without more consideration for how it's handled in the story.”
“In Shinichi's storyline especially, I felt like it ended with a dark cloud hovering over an otherwise awesome route.”
- graphics6 mentions
- 67 % positive mentions
- 33 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The graphics are widely praised for their stunning artwork, which enhances the emotional depth of the storyline. Reviewers highlight the beautiful art style and express that it significantly contributes to the overall experience, making moments feel impactful and engaging.
“The art style is absolutely beautiful and the storyline is amazing!”
“Beautiful artwork; the main character laughing is adorable, I can see why all the guys want her.”
“The artwork, the music, and especially the writing were astoundingly good; you had me tear up, squeal, or laugh so easily.”
- music6 mentions
- 50 % positive mentions
- 50 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The music in the game is highly praised for its fitting original soundtrack, which includes standout tracks that enhance the emotional experience. Reviewers note that the combination of music, artwork, and writing creates a deeply touching atmosphere, making it a significant reason to recommend the game.
“The artwork, the music, and especially the writing were astoundingly good; you had me tear up, squeal, or laugh so easily. I had to stop several times because it touched me so much.”
“I have to say that the main reason I recommend this game (aside from the great music and beautiful art) is the writing, which in my opinion makes or breaks an otome like this.”
“- Fitting OST with some stand-out tracks.”
- emotional2 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The game effectively explores the emotional journey of college student Asami, highlighting her struggles with relationships, family dynamics, and her own tsundere personality. Players resonate with her challenges, making the narrative both relatable and engaging.
“It tells the story of college student Asami and the challenges she faces in life - from navigating her relationships with love interests and family, to dealing with her own emotionally distant personality (she's a total tsundere and I dig it).”
- character development2 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The reviews highlight exceptional character development and storytelling, indicating that the game's narrative effectively enhances the depth and growth of its characters.
“Great character development and story.”
“Great character development and story.”
- humor2 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The humor in the game is highlighted by the charming and adorable portrayal of the main character, particularly her laughter, which adds a lighthearted and endearing quality that resonates with players.
