Arcade Spirits

Mm... It's just not for me. The Character Customization is extremely limited (Three hairstyle options no curly hair and no outfit choice; You just get a colored hoodie) and your MC ends up looking basic compared to other characters. The writing made me cringe. Teetered between annoying to just try hard. EX: Game literally has your MC describe something as " like, poop, from a butt." and frankly, I couldn't even make it through the first lunch break. I was over it by then. I'm sure this Game has its highs and I can see something good there that can really hit but frankly, it's not the ride I want to take. Try it for yourself and make your decision but this was a pass.

Slice of life VN/dating sim set in an alternative timeline where the video game crash didn't happen and arcades are still popular. The 'down on their luck' protagonist gets a job in a small retro arcade. The game lets you the protagonist's name, pronouns and a limited choice of physical appearances (a few hair styles and choice of hair, eye and clothing colours but no real male appearance option). Throughout the story you will become more familiar with the arcade's other employees and regulars and can romance these male and female characters, or if you're don't care for romance, just keep them all as friends. There is some voice acting but it's rather inconsistent. Some character lines are fully voiced, others just trigger a generic quip instead of speaking actual text. The main character can be a bit gloomy at times and some of the characters can feel a little one dimensional but it also tackles some heavy themes and avoids cheap gamer stereotypes. Overall I liked it a bunch. 8/10

[h3]Pros:[/h3] For the most part, I think this game is a big accomplishment from a small dev team. - NPCs: These are the friends you make at the arcade. They all have their own unique designs and personality traits. Throughout the game, I was able to get a strong sense of these characters, their values, and their goals. I enjoyed spending time with them. - MC: You are able to build up the personality of the MC, and change who they are fundamentally by the end. You start out as a depressed loser, but can build up several personality traits: kind, quirky, steady, gutsy, etc. You can also if you choose to, not only end up in a better place financially, but develop a profession that makes you happy as well. You definitely feel like this was a journey toward self discovery and character growth. - Romance: The game has 6 romance interests. I was chasing after the resident teddy bear, Percy, but then Teo unexpectedly and bashfully asked the MC on a lunch date. I was taken aback, and thought his pursuit was super cute, so the MC ended up with Teo in my playthrough. I cannot attest to how things end up with other NPCs, but Teo was a supportive partner, and looks GREAT in a speedo, lol. -…

god, i love being a nerd loving other nerds

I like how there's an option to be friends with all the characters instead of romancing them.

its kool! probably wont finish it though.