Tomoyo After ~It's a Wonderful Life~ English Edition
- July 1, 2016
- VisualArts/Key
Get on Steam"Tomoyo After ~It's a Wonderful Life~ English Edition" is a visual novel that serves as a sequel to Key's popular game "CLANNAD." The story follows protagonist Tomoya, who now lives and works outside of town with his girlfriend Tomoyo. Their peaceful life is upended when Tomoyo's brother brings over his illegitimate daughter, Tomo, and Takafumi's ex-girlfriend, Kanako, shows up at their doorstep. Over the course of one summer, the group of five people learn to live together and form an unforgettable bond. Tomoyo, sweet and supportive, stands by Tomoya's side as they navigate their new life.
PC
Windows
Reviews
- The emotional depth and storytelling are incredibly impactful, often leaving players in tears.
- The character development, particularly for Tomoya and Tomoyo, is well-executed and resonates with fans of Clannad.
- The game features a beautiful soundtrack that enhances the overall experience and emotional weight of the story.
- The characters feel different from their original portrayals in Clannad, which may disappoint fans expecting continuity.
- The pacing can be slow, especially in the beginning, and some plot points feel forced or contrived.
- The prologue is filled with fan service that may detract from the overall narrative and character development.
- story231 mentions
- 26 % positive mentions
- 71 % neutral mentions
- 3 % negative mentions
The story of "Tomoyo After" is a poignant continuation of Tomoyo's route from "Clannad," exploring themes of love, family, and personal growth. While the narrative starts slowly and features some disjointed arcs, it ultimately delivers a powerful emotional impact, especially in its concluding moments, which many find to be even more moving than "Clannad After Story." Despite some criticisms regarding pacing and character development, fans of the original series appreciate the depth and heart of this sequel, making it a worthwhile experience for those invested in Tomoyo's character.
“It was truly an excellent story... until the twist near the end, then it became majestic and quite possibly one of the most touching pieces of fiction I have ever consumed.”
“The game has Key's signature style and really pulls on the heartstrings at multiple points throughout the story, especially toward the end.”
“This is a story not about finding love, rather it is about the struggles of life in one room.”
“The prologue is awful and consists entirely of fan service without any real plot or character development.”
“Most of Tomoyo After follows a strangely paced sequence of vignettes that don't really ever connect smoothly with each other or tell what could really be called a story.”
“The plot lines of 'Tomoyo After' are aimless, its conflicts are pointless, and its climax and resolution both amount to little more than meaningless, empty cruelty inflicted on this pair of beloved characters who are portrayed here as dull, two-dimensional stand-ins.”
- emotional57 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The emotional aspect of the game is widely praised, with many players describing it as a deeply touching and heart-wrenching experience that evokes a range of feelings, from laughter to tears. Reviewers highlight the impactful storytelling, memorable characters, and poignant moments that resonate long after playing, often comparing it favorably to the original "Clannad." While some note that it may not reach the same emotional heights as "Clannad," the game still delivers a powerful narrative that leaves a lasting impression.
“It was truly an excellent story... until the twist near the end, then it became majestic and quite possibly one of the most touching pieces of fiction I have ever consumed.”
“A truly emotional, but beautiful experience that hits you like a train wreck and shows you the positive aspects of everything as well.”
“This game has really touched my heart and made me really emotional; it has made a 20-year-old grown man cry so much.”
- music33 mentions
- 55 % positive mentions
- 36 % neutral mentions
- 9 % negative mentions
The music in the game is widely praised for its emotional depth and quality, with many reviewers highlighting the soundtrack as a standout feature that enhances the overall experience. Tracks like the ending credits and the main theme "Hope" are particularly noted for their ability to evoke strong feelings, making them memorable parts of the journey. While some feel the new soundtrack lacks the emotional impact of previous works, the consensus is that the music remains a significant and enjoyable aspect of the game.
“This spin-off can make you laugh, cry, and make you emotional with its great soundtrack.”
“The soundtrack was fantastic as expected (the ending credits track is some of the best music in the entire series, in my opinion), and I liked the game art when it did show up.”
“My favourite song is the main title theme called 'Hope', and it's played a few times throughout the entire game.”
“Also, the entirely different soundtrack lacks the same emotional depth I felt in Clannad.”
“The few things that do work well in this game, such as its humor and music, don't do anything to save this game.”
“Just music is going to make you cry like a little baby.”
- humor13 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The humor in the game is a mixed bag, with some players finding it grating at times, while others appreciate its funny moments and character interactions that contribute to a memorable experience. While some elements, like fanservice and character dialogue changes, detract from the humor, many reviews highlight the presence of laugh-out-loud moments and enjoyable mini-games that enhance the overall atmosphere. Overall, the game balances humor with drama and personal growth, leaving players with a blend of emotions.
“A funny, touching, and thoughtful continuation of one of Clannad's most memorable narrative arcs.”
“The game is hilarious, it has so many great moments that made me laugh.”
“This visual novel has funny, likeable characters and a great story.”
- graphics12 mentions
- 25 % positive mentions
- 50 % neutral mentions
- 25 % negative mentions
The graphics have received mixed feedback, with many users noting a significant departure from the art style of the previous game, "Clannad." While some appreciate the new visuals, others find it jarring and feel it detracts from their connection to the characters, particularly Tomoyo, whose design and voice actor have changed. Overall, the shift in art style and character design has led to a divided reception, with some players struggling to adjust while others view it positively.
“The artwork is different from the previous game.”
“It just takes some getting used to with the art style and soundtrack.”
“Just as well, the art style is better, in my opinion.”
“If you come directly after watching/playing Clannad, you'll immediately notice that the art style changed drastically and that Tomoyo's voice actress is completely different. That, paired with how unbearably cringe the whole prologue is, makes it no surprise that some people decide to drop it.”
“The art style is different, the characters' personalities have changed, and it shares a whopping one voice actress from the prequel.”
“Completely different art style and voice actors make it so far removed from the original that you're already disconnected as soon as you start.”
- character development6 mentions
- 33 % positive mentions
- 17 % neutral mentions
- 50 % negative mentions
Character development in the visual novel is mixed; while some users appreciate the humor and depth in certain characters, others criticize the prologue for relying on fan service and failing to establish a coherent plot. Additionally, there are concerns that the character development is inconsistent and undermined by the overall scenario.
“Throughout the visual novel, the laughter, humor, and the setting of each character development were good to superb, like Tomoyo.”
“Another thing that this visual novel does right is character development.”
“The prologue is awful and consists entirely of fan service without any real plot or character development.”
“The character development happened before the ending.”
“The entire scenario setup is so poorly conceived that the world they live in fails to resemble any sort of convincing reality, and moreover they undo the character development established in Clannad.”
- gameplay5 mentions
- 40 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 60 % negative mentions
The gameplay is primarily choice-based, typical of visual novels, with limited interaction beyond selecting options. While there is a separate dungeon crawler element, it feels disconnected from the main story, which some players feel could have benefited from more in-depth exploration of key narrative threads. Overall, the experience is described as lengthy but somewhat rushed in its execution.
“The novel is prepared for something about 30 hours of truly awesome gameplay (reading xd).”
“Specifically, the final CG 'cutscene' quickly runs through a lot of really important threads that could have maybe just been expanded on in 2-3 normal VN gameplay moments to make it feel a little less rushed.”
“This is the most basic of visual novels - the only gameplay is selecting one of a couple choices.”
“There is a gameplay element, some kind of dungeon crawler I believe, but it's completely separate from the story (it has its own option in the main menu).”
“Specifically, the final CG 'cutscene' quickly runs through a lot of really important threads that could have maybe just been expanded on in 2-3 normal visual novel gameplay moments to make it feel a little less rushed.”
- atmosphere4 mentions
- 50 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 50 % negative mentions
The atmosphere of the game is widely praised for its cozy and heartwarming qualities, reminiscent of the emotional depth found in titles like Clannad. Players appreciate the blend of everyday life with engaging storytelling and humor, creating a captivating and immersive experience. Overall, it is considered one of the standout features of the game.
“Wonderful life, amazing atmosphere, and funny chats.”
“Makes you reconsider some, I'd say many concepts and things in life, while enjoying the cozy day-to-day life atmosphere.”
“The same warm atmosphere and heart-touching story as Clannad.”
