Missing Stars
- November 12, 2023
- Somnova Studios
![Missing Stars Game Cover](https://img.gamebrain.co/games/528/missing_stars_somnova_2023_1_xl.jpg)
![](https://img.gamebrain.co/games/530/missing_stars_somnova_2023_3_xl.jpg)
![](https://img.gamebrain.co/games/535/missing_stars_somnova_2023_8_xl.jpg)
![](https://img.gamebrain.co/games/529/missing_stars_somnova_2023_2_xl.jpg)
Missing Stars is a visual novel that aims to depict mental disorders and the people who live with them in a realistic, but sensitive and respectful light. After an accident that left him traumatized, Erik Wilhelm transfers in to Privatgymnasium St. Dymphna, a special Viennese boarding school for teenagers and young adults struggling with their mental health. There, he meets a colorful cast of ch…
Reviews
- The game effectively addresses mental health topics with sensitivity and respect, portraying characters with depth beyond their struggles.
- The art, music, and writing are well-crafted, contributing to an engaging and emotional experience.
- Characters are diverse and likable, with unique personalities that enhance the overall narrative.
- The game has been in development for over a decade, leading to concerns about the pace of future content releases.
- Some players feel that the game lacks the charm and depth of its inspiration, Katawa Shoujo, and that certain routes and content have been removed or altered.
- There are technical issues, such as music looping and sprite glitches, which detract from the overall experience.
- story9 mentions
- 33 % positive mentions
- 33 % neutral mentions
- 33 % negative mentions
The story of the game is well-crafted, with engaging characters and a beautiful presentation, leaving players eager for more content and expansions. While some aspects, like Erik's backstory, could benefit from deeper exploration, the narrative is generally easy to follow and effectively conveys its sensitive themes in a heartwarming manner. Overall, despite some developmental challenges, the story serves as a solid introduction that hints at potential for richer storylines in the future.
“Every part of this visual novel is well-made - the story, the characters, the art, the music - the only thing you wish is that there were more.”
“I am immensely drawn in by the story and the depth of the characters, especially Katja.”
“The story is easy to follow, and the theme, while naturally sensitive, is beautifully told in a heartwarming and light tone.”
“With many years of development leading to multiple story changes, engine updates, changes in writers, and one character route even being dropped, it's honestly a miracle that Missing Stars is here.”
“It's not the greatest story there is, but serves as an acceptable introduction for (hopefully) much longer storylines.”
“Though I wish we got more insight into Erik's therapy sessions and more about his backstory, I understand that the game is still being developed and there's more to come.”
- music6 mentions
- 50 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 50 % negative mentions
Overall, the music in the game is well-crafted and appreciated by many, with some reviewers highlighting its quality and emotional impact. However, there are mixed feelings, as a few found it somewhat forgettable or lacking in emotional resonance, and there were minor technical issues noted. Despite these critiques, the music is generally considered a strong aspect of the game.
“Every part of this visual novel is well-made - the story, the characters, the art, the music - the only thing you wish is that there were more.”
“Of course, it would be no review of mine if I didn't subtly mention that the music is awesome, which it is very much so!”
“The illustrations and music are expected of indie games, but, in my opinion, they're pretty good.”
“The music is somewhat forgettable and the character designs are a bit more on the western side, but not a bad cast in terms of character/personality at all.”
“There were a few technical hiccups with weird looping on the music and some sprites disappearing temporarily, but the content of the game more than made up for those minor issues.”
“As for the music, I'll be honest and say that except for a couple of the tracks, it didn't really evoke any feelings in me, for better or worse.”
- emotional2 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The game is praised for its heartwarming and light storytelling, effectively conveying sensitive themes in an emotionally engaging manner. Players find it both cute and deeply moving, enhancing the overall emotional experience.
“The story is easy to follow, and the theme, while naturally sensitive, is beautifully told in a heartwarming and light tone.”
“Very cute and emotional game.”
- atmosphere1 mentions
- 300 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The game's atmosphere is enhanced by visually appealing backgrounds and well-designed characters, contributing to an overall immersive experience.
“The art is good too, with very pretty backgrounds that enhance the atmosphere, and the characters all have their own appeal!”
“The immersive sound design really pulls you into the world, making every moment feel alive and engaging.”
“The lighting and environmental details create a hauntingly beautiful atmosphere that keeps you on edge throughout the game.”
- character development1 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- -100 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
Character development is generally well-received, with a cast that possesses distinct personalities, although the character designs lean more towards a Western aesthetic and the music is considered forgettable.
“The character designs are a bit more on the western side, but the cast is not bad in terms of character and personality at all.”
“The music is somewhat forgettable and the character designs are a bit more on the western side, but not a bad cast in terms of character and personality at all.”
- graphics1 mentions
- 300 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The graphics are highly praised for their engaging character designs and impressive artwork, leading to a unanimous recommendation from users.
“100% recommend, interesting characters and great artwork.”
“The graphics are stunning, bringing the game world to life with incredible detail.”
“Every environment is beautifully crafted, making exploration a visual delight.”
- humor1 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The humor in the game is well-received, providing an enjoyable experience that breaks away from the monotony of a typical medical textbook.
“It is also funny and enjoyable, while not being a monotone medical textbook.”