Because We're Here - Act I

I was drawn in by the many comments describing how gut-wrenching the plot and romances were, and thought I'd try it out even though it wasn't the kind of visual novel I usually play. About 15 hours later, I finished both Acts 1 and 2 in their entirety on a school night, losing sleep, tears and parts of my soul I can't get back because I HAD to know what happened next. Set aside any reservations you might have about this game, and please try it out. My review is about Acts 1 and 2 in general but if you've only played Act 1 I strongly recommend playing Act 2 as that's where the real meat of the story is. It's also about 4 times longer, and well worth the price tag. This vn does a fantastic job of capturing its setting and depicting a diverse cast of well-written characters. They all have a part to play in the war and more specifically a perspective, and I found myself connecting with each of them--even the ones I didn't particularly like. Moreover, the directing of the game is something I have to commend. I don't find myself getting very immersed in visual novels regardless of how pretty the art, backgrounds or UI are, but during my playthrough of the game I was completely immerse…

A well-written and engaging visual novel, with a short run time but a lot of interesting creative choices packed into that. The art style is soft, the background music is lovely, the care for the (fictionalised) historical setting is clear. Mechanically, the game has "battle of wits" segments that highlight emotional breaking points of the protagonist and reward paying attention, as well as points where you select which love interest's story to follow further - with one character being clearly signposted as non-romantic. The writing is engaging, full of jokes and witticisms, with characters' personalities quickly established and given the benefit of the doubt by Elfriede, the kind and optimistic narrator. [spoiler]A willingness to take narrative swings such as killing the main initial love interest is striking and further strengthens the core themes of the futility and waste of war.[/spoiler] I really enjoyed it, and will be playing Act II when I get chance!

I'm glad I played this game, especially as Animé art is not my first go-to with visual novels. The story about a village girl, trying to get back in contact with her friends during the war, is amazingly well-crafted, especially thanks to the diverse characters you're going to meet in the game. All of them are written in a distinct way with their very own perspective on the war. It was quite exciting to explore their attitude and how they develop over the course of the game, even when you dislike them. And be prepared: The game has quite some twists up its sleeves that I didn't think of. So, highly recommend this to every VN fan with a liking for historical drama and a well-researched foundation.

Because We’re Here - Act I is a deeply emotional otome visual novel developed and published by Studio Elfriede that combines romance, war drama, and psychological storytelling into an experience far more serious and mature than its presentation initially suggests. Set during a fictional conflict heavily inspired by World War I, the game follows Elfriede Rauss, a timid Postal Corps volunteer who becomes entangled in the lives of soldiers and civilians struggling to survive amid fear, violence, and emotional exhaustion. What begins as a character-focused romance story gradually transforms into a haunting exploration of human vulnerability during wartime, creating a narrative that feels tragic, intimate, and emotionally honest. The game’s strongest achievement is its writing. Rather than romanticizing war or using the setting as a simple backdrop for attractive characters, the story constantly emphasizes the psychological and emotional consequences of conflict. Every conversation carries a sense of uncertainty because the characters are fully aware that their futures may disappear at any moment. This atmosphere gives even small interactions remarkable emotional weight. Moments of war…

Great visual novel, i haven't played act 2 yet but i plan to. The world war 1 inspired setting is well made and original; in a short time you get invested hard into the characters.

Very interesting story, and the minigame is fun. some characters can be hit or miss but after playing both acts I can say it’s intentional because the characters are human; they’re not perfect people. Gerhardt is my bbg… I mean he’s my favourite character. For fun I have made a list of characters who remind me of characters from other media and it’s interesting who reminded me of who. If you’re into romance visual novels I think you’ll like it but i personally could take it or leave it. You might ask why I’m recommending it then; and it’s because while I’m only caring about one route, I think others would really like this game.