Basic Information
- Official English Title: Fantasy Tavern Sextet – Vol.1 New World Days
- Developer & Publisher: Developed by iMel and qureate; Published by qureate
- Release Dates:
- Nintendo Switch: November 5, 2020
- PC (Steam): December 14, 2020
- Platforms: Nintendo Switch, PC (Steam)
- Genre Tags: Visual Novel, Adventure, Romantic Comedy, Slice of Life
- Social Media Matrix:
- Official Website: qureate.co.jp
- Steam Store Page: Steam
- Twitter: @qureate
In-Depth Review
Game Overview
Fantasy Tavern Sextet – Vol.1 New World Days, developed by iMel and published by qureate, is the first installment in a planned series of visual novels that blend slapstick humor, fantasy elements, and romantic drama. The game follows a young cook from Akihabara who is transported to a magical realm, where he must help revive a struggling tavern while navigating relationships with its eccentric staff.
Story and Characters
The narrative begins with the protagonist’s sudden abduction to a fantasy world, where he is rescued by Lupine, the tavern’s owner. Together, they work to restore the tavern to its former glory, encountering characters like Daisy, a cat-eared staff member with a complex personality. While the story maintains a lighthearted tone, it occasionally delves into character backstories, particularly Lupine’s inheritance of the tavern and Daisy’s unresolved jealousy.
Gameplay Mechanics
As a visual novel, the gameplay centers around dialogue choices, though the impact of these decisions is limited, with most branching paths converging into a shared narrative. The E-mote system enhances character animations, adding expressiveness to interactions. Players can expect a 10-12 hour playthrough, with the story concluding on a cliffhanger to set up future volumes.
Visual and Audio Design
The game features vibrant character designs and detailed environments, with Lupine and Daisy standing out for their dynamic animations. The soundtrack, while functional, has been noted as less memorable compared to the visual elements. Voice acting is available in Japanese, complementing the text-based narrative.
Reception and Verdict
Reviews highlight the game’s charm, particularly its character-driven humor and accessible storytelling. Critics praise the protagonist’s relatability compared to typical visual novel leads, though the lack of meaningful choice consequences is a recurring critique. User reviews on Steam and Reddit emphasize the game’s lighthearted appeal and anticipation for subsequent volumes.
Game Link: Fantasy Tavern Sextet – Vol.1 New World Days
