Snowdome

This was my first kinetic novel, no choices to make, just read and think about some of the subjects that are thrown up in the story. The reader can make their own mind about how deep or how seriously they want to take this. I found it easy to get involved with the characters, to understand the frustrations of trying to earn a living in a city where everyone lives the same boring life-style and where young people and their parents do not understand one another. The protagonist, a reluctant hero, goes for a walk and meets a young girl one summer's night when his tv breaks down, and thats when it all starts as he has to grow up and make life decisions that have consequences not just for himself, but other people. I can't say more without giving away the plot. I enjoyed it. I liked the art style and while the music got a bit monotonous, its not intrusive and suits the story. It can be as deep and philosophical as you want, or the complete opposite if you just want an interesting tale to entertain you, and there are enough twists to the plot to do that. For less than the cost of a movie ticket you will get at least a double feature out of this novel, even better if its in a sale! So if you like tales that can make you think, its worth considering.

Note: I received a Steam key to help with alpha testing although I had no involvement with the development. Snowdome is a kinetic visual novel developed by Lunatic Works and published by Lunatic Works and Kikai Digital. You take on the role of Tan Yan, a young adult who works as a convenience store clerk in the city. He lives his life day-to-day, feeling unappreciated and that life will never change. He moved away from the country, as he didn't want to become a farmer like his parents before him. One day, when Tan Yan decides to take a walk on the beach (because his TV is broken, so he can't watch his favorite show), he encounters a teenage girl. She makes him an intriguing offer. Help me save the world. This piques Tan Yan's interest and thus, his adventure begins. As this is a kinetic novel, I'll stop my story synopsis here to avoid spoilers. ^^ As for the gameplay, there isn't really much in Snowdome. Since it is a kinetic novel, there are no choices, so you just play through the story from beginning to end. There are a total of 14 chapters and an epilogue. Of course, as this is a visual novel, there are plenty of CGs although no Steam achievements at the time of this review. Since I've gone over the story and gameplay, I'll move onto my critique. Upon first playing Snowdome, I found myself drawn into the story. Like Tan Yan, I was intrigued upon meeting the girl who claims she can help save the world. At first, I couldn't help wondering what kind of story this would be. Would it be supernatural, psychological, etc.? Without trying to spoil, the story is quite complicated. It will make the reader think and wonder what's real. Also, what's happening to the people on the island where Tan Yan is? Although it seemingly appears peaceful, there's definitely way more to it. I especially loved the plot twists that happen very late in the story, which (again) made me think. It's really difficult to explain what I loved about this story without spoiling certain parts, but I will say that it'll make you think a lot. In regards to the writing, I felt that it was well-paced. At times, I noticed some run-on sentences although the translation itself is more than passable. It's easy to follow the story. In regards to art, I liked the backgrounds. They almost feel real at times and I liked the sprites. The effects used were really well done, and the CGs were beautifully drawn. As for the soundtrack, I enjoyed listening to the various tracks. They give off that mysterious vibe that is prevalent throughout the story. Oh, and there's also Chinese voice acting (except for Tan Yan). It's relaxing listening to the voices while reading the story at the same time. Overall, would I recommend Snowdome? If you're looking for a visual novel with an in-depth story, then yes, I would. As I've mentioned, Snowdome will make you think a lot, which I personally believe is a good thing. XD I wish it had Steam achievements, but this is my only negative (and a minor one at that). For the asking price, I'd say it's worth getting, as it took me less than 9.5 hours to complete, so there's plenty of story. However, if you'd rather wait for a bargain, there are sales, of course. Even at full price, it's a good deal to get this game. ^^

I have only reached Chapter 6 at the time of writing this review, when I started this Visual Novel I didn't expect much but it turned out better than what I expected. It's a Kinetic novel so no choices or multiple endings, the story is not complex but simple and interesting one, players would want to know what happens next, it has a nice music and better English version than most Chinese VNs or FMVs I have played. I am not a true fan of Visual Novels I just play them if I found it interesting this one turned interesting, when I started the VN it was slow paced for me but as the story progressed it was interesting, I liked the presentation of the story, background music is good as well. It's a simple review don't want to spoil the story it's just to mention that the VN is good and English version is better than most Chinese VNs etc, it's nice they added an English. I will update as I finish the VN.