By Kio Nachi and p19
Hello everyone, I am Kio Nachi. I'm a designer, a writer, an office employee, a person who holds a side job, and of course a guy who drinks. A handyman who most likely accepts a task within my skills and understanding. Because of that, I have done many things in my life, but that is a story for another time.
This time, we talk about "KARAKARA." This game was announced this year in February, and when this column publishes on the web, it is the day before release. However, the short period between announcement and release, and the very unusual making and selling styles of this game have not been talked about in depth.
Hence, I am utilizing Dengekihime.com as an outlet to say "KARAKARA." Please, stay awhile and listen.
This game would fit into the Genre of "Bishoujo" games. But unlike many of the genre, there is the biggest difference.
- It is short (Almost comparable to the size of one light novel)
- It is reasonable (a basic plan would be about a 1000 yen) < I didn't want to use the word "cheap here."
- No routes (A linear story)
- Download-based Sales (Although we do have physical products)
- For International Players (Is very different compared to player base meant for Japan)
Usually for Bishoujo games, a full price would retail around 10,000 yen, and its gameplay would net upwards of 30 hours. Due to this kind of standard, it is hard for newcomers to join the market. Although these types of property are characteristic of the genre and do bring its charm, I often thought of how to lower the cost and game time so that it is much more accessible. Hence, I am trying it out.
I do believe that this game offers that accessibility. The play time is not as long, and for those who like p19's illustration, as well as the setting and characters, it 'd be good if the audience would give this game a try.
This work takes place in America. The game has all the scenery that I love about America: the desert, the straight roads, and the bright, bold blue skies. Most of all, a crucial point is in the menu of the protagonist's roadside diner, Clam Chowder. For those of you who have gone to America should know, like Miso soup which can't go wrong, in America most Clam Chowder are all good. From the standard Clam to those with an assortment of ingredients, they differ based on region and are all good. You can dip dry and stale bread, or even throw large chunks of crackers into them.
So after you enjoyed the game, please reminisces about the far distant land, with a cup of clam chowder. To be honest, I was unable to add my second overall favorite American dish: Pork Beans. I will add that in next time. For that dish, rather than using whole tomatoes like a fine cuisine, I like it much better with salty ketchup and greasy pork belly... And of course, pair with a light tasting beer...
I digressed a bit, but in the next column, we will discuss the world and the plan for the future. So, until then, please wait in anticipation for the game.