Ochitsubaki
Minimum requirements
Minimum:- OS: Windows 7/8/10
Single-player
Indie, RPG
17 Dec, 2021
Curator review
A brilliantly and creatively written visual novel with an experimental poetic storytelling structure, a retro anime aesthetic, and a lush original orchestral soundtrack.
Full review
Let me start off by saying that OCHITSUBAKI is a visual novel unlike any other. It delves deep into the themes of trauma, translation, and identity with its unique storytelling structure. As you immerse yourself in this game, be prepared to experience a rollercoaster of emotions.
The first thing that stands out about OCHITSUBAKI is its stunning retro anime aesthetic. The character portraits are beautifully crafted and evoke a sense of nostalgia while still feeling fresh and modern. The attention to detail in the artwork is commendable and adds an extra layer of depth to the overall experience.
Accompanying the mesmerizing visuals is a rich orchestral soundtrack that takes inspiration from traditional Asian pentatonic scales. This fusion of traditional elements with contemporary twists creates a truly captivating musical backdrop for your journey through the game.
The gameplay itself follows an experimental poetic storytelling structure, which sets it apart from typical visual novels. The narrative explores themes such as immortality, witnessing apocalypses, and the struggle for understanding one's own trauma.
OCHITSUBAKI presents you with language options – Japanese (JPN), English (ENG), and JPN translation – each offering their own unique rendition of the story. This clever approach mirrors how translating complex experiences like trauma can lose certain nuances along the way.
There are impactful trigger warnings associated with this game including child sexual abuse (CSA), violence, animal death, suicidal ideation; so it's important to consider if these topics may affect you before embarking on this emotional journey.
In conclusion, OCHITSUBAKI stands out as an extraordinary visual novel that pushes boundaries both narratively and aesthetically. Its experimental approach to storytelling combined with its retro anime aesthetic create an immersive experience like no other. The beautifully crafted character portraits, accompanied by a lush orchestral soundtrack, add another layer of depth to an already intriguing game. However, it's important to note the trigger warnings associated with this game and consider your comfort level before diving in. If you're ready for a unique and emotionally charged journey, OCHITSUBAKI is definitely worth experiencing.