Genre: Visual Novel
Developer: Takayashiki Development
Publisher: JASTUSA
Release Date: February 24th, 2015
Hey, guys and gals. Are you looking for a laid back story to fill your need for drama? Need a good cry that television can’t provide? How about a visual novel with loads of choices and endings? If yes to all those questions, Kana Okaeri is perfect for you. This visual novel tells the story of Kana, the protagonist’s little sister. She has a weak constitution and was, as a child, very often bedridden. Can you let her go or will you do whatever you can to be by her side? Localized by JASTUSA into English, I had a very fun time with Kana Okaeri. With great music, lots of art, and loads of choices, this novel is definitely a memorable one.
From the moment I opened the game, my ears were assaulted with music. After sitting there dazed for a bit at how soothing the music was, I proceeded to read the novel. Throughout the reading, the music was continuing to make me truly feel like I was engaged with the story. Now, while the music does feel a bit dated, it gets the point across that there is sadness and happiness in this novel. It reminded me of my experience with the music in Katawa Shoujo and I enjoyed it even more.
On the other hand, I was also highly engaged by the sheer volume of artwork in the game. From local schools to parks, pools, and more, Kana Okaeri is a very visual novel. (Ha!~) The amount of artwork in the game really shapes the world that it is building. Instead of having to imagine what that crowded festival looks like, you’ll see it. Different views of Kana’s hospital room? You got it. What more could you want?
Hmmm. So you still want more, eh? How about I tell you about the amount of choices you can make? Each route has over twenty choices that lead to six endings. Some choices even lead you on the route to do it with Kana, if that’s your thing. Whether you do it with your sister or not, the game makes it clear that you can play your own way. Depending on choices, there could be characters in the game that you never even meet.
Overall, I think Kana Okaeri is a pretty good visual novel. With plenty to keep you occupied story-wise, lots of artful assets to look at, and pleasingly relaxing music, the game does well at manipulating your emotions. While the game can be a depressing read, it is very much worth the tears you’ll spill while playing. For the price of $24.95 USD on the JASTUSA website, I feel that it is worth the price tag for a well done novel.
Lolinia gives Kana Okaeri a Drastik Measure of 7.4 out of 10.0 (74).
