PGC NEWS

Otome visual novels, targeted towards a female audience, offer romantic narratives where the protagonist interacts with various male characters. While the genre may have a niche following, certain titles, like Hakuoki, stand out with their unique storytelling and immersive experiences. Originally released in 2008 as Hakuoki ~Shinsengumi Kitan~, the series received an anime adaptation in 2012 and has seen numerous re-releases across various platforms. Now, the original game has arrived on Steam as Hakuoki: Kyoto Winds, a remastered version for a new generation of players. But does this visual novel live up to the hype? Let’s delve into our review.

Chizuru Yukimura encountering the Shinsengumi

A Mysterious Tale of Romance and War

Hakuoki: Kyoto Winds follows the journey of Chizuru Yukimura, a young woman searching for her missing father in Kyoto. During her perilous journey, she witnesses a brutal murder and is subsequently rescued by the Shinsengumi, a special police force. Forced to live with them, Chizuru embarks on a quest to find her father while uncovering dark secrets surrounding the Shinsengumi, her father’s past, and her own lineage.

While the premise might initially suggest a typical romantic tale, Hakuoki: Kyoto Winds goes beyond simple courtship. The narrative weaves a complex web of intrigue, encompassing battles against supernatural foes, internal conflicts within the Shinsengumi, and the protagonist’s struggle for self-discovery. This is not just a love story; it’s a tale of survival, loyalty, and sacrifice against a backdrop of historical turmoil.

In-game dialogue and character interactions

Enhanced Features for an Immersive Reading Experience

Visual novels often rely heavily on their narratives, and Hakuoki: Kyoto Winds excels in providing an engaging story. However, it also incorporates several features that elevate the reading experience. A comprehensive log allows players to revisit any scene or dialogue, ensuring they don’t miss any crucial details. An extensive encyclopedia provides historical context and character information, enriching the player’s understanding of the game’s world. Additionally, a scene replay feature lets players quickly access their favorite moments, while the “Affection Rating” system allows them to experiment with different relationship paths without restarting the entire game. These features combine to create a seamless and user-friendly experience.

Encyclopedia entry example

A Vast Expansion of Romanceable Characters and Content

Hakuoki: Kyoto Winds expands upon the original game by doubling the number of romanceable characters to twelve. This addition provides players with more choices and deeper insights into the personalities and backstories of the Shinsengumi members. While the sheer number of options might seem overwhelming, it ultimately adds value by offering a more personalized and engaging romantic experience.

One of the twelve romanceable characters

A Disappointing Cliffhanger Leaves Players Wanting More

Despite its captivating story and enhanced features, Hakuoki: Kyoto Winds suffers from a significant flaw: its abrupt ending. The narrative concludes at a critical juncture, leaving many plot threads unresolved. This cliffhanger undermines the emotional investment players have made in the story and creates a sense of incompleteness. Furthermore, the game’s marketing, particularly on Steam, implies a more complete experience than what is delivered. The advertised 80+ hours of gameplay and 30 endings refer to the entire Hakuoki series, not just Kyoto Winds. This misleading advertising leaves a sour taste, especially considering the game’s premium price point.

Chizuru caught in a dramatic scene

Conclusion

Hakuoki: Kyoto Winds offers a captivating blend of romance, historical fiction, and supernatural intrigue. Its engaging narrative, enhanced features, and expanded roster of characters provide a compelling visual novel experience. However, the abrupt ending and misleading marketing significantly detract from its overall value. While Kyoto Winds sets the stage for a compelling story, its incomplete nature leaves players feeling frustrated and ultimately unsatisfied. While the wait for the sequel continues, the question remains whether the complete story will justify the initial investment and the emotional rollercoaster of this unfinished tale.