Basic Information
- Official English Name: Ecchi Sketch: Draw Cute Girls Every Day!
- Developer & Publisher: NewWestGames
- Release Date: March 17, 2017 (NA/EU/Asia)
- Platforms: PC (Steam, Nutaku)
- Genre Tags: Visual Novel, Romance, Lesbian Themes, Erotic
- Social Media: Steam Store Page, Nutaku Profile, NewWestGames Twitter
In-Depth Review
Ecchi Sketch: Draw Cute Girls Every Day! emerges as a visually striking and thematically bold yuri visual novel that blends workplace romance with manga-industry satire. Developed by NewWestGames, this title positions itself as both a celebration of lesbian narratives and a critique of their commercialization in media. The story follows Yume Akiyama, a graphic designer at a funeral home who lands an unexpected job at a manga studio focused on girl-on-girl content. This setup allows the game to explore themes of identity, creativity, and the challenges of navigating Japan’s societal expectations as a queer woman.
The narrative is structured around three main romance routes, each offering distinct character dynamics and plot twists. While the game leans heavily into ecchi humor and playful sensuality, it balances these elements with heartfelt moments of vulnerability. For instance, Yume’s interactions with her colleagues reveal both the camaraderie of shared creative passion and the tension of unspoken desires. The game’s dialogue is peppered with manga industry jargon and cultural references, which may appeal to fans familiar with Japanese pop culture but could occasionally alienate newcomers.
Visually, Ecchi Sketch features vibrant character sprites and over 20 unique CGs that highlight its anime-inspired aesthetic. The soundtrack, while not fully voiced, includes partial voice acting that enhances key emotional scenes. However, the lack of consistent voicing may feel inconsistent to some players. Technical performance is smooth on PC, with responsive controls and a user-friendly interface typical of Ren’Py-based visual novels.
Player reception has been mixed. Positive feedback highlights the game’s sex-positive messaging and lighthearted tone, while criticisms often cite its short length (around 10 hours) and occasionally abrupt narrative transitions. The “All Ages Ver” available on platforms like Steam censors explicit content but retains suggestive dialogue and thematic maturity, making it a niche title for adult audiences seeking queer-focused narratives without explicit visuals.
Ecchi Sketch: Draw Cute Girls Every Day! is best suited for fans of yuri visual novels who appreciate a mix of humor, romance, and industry commentary. While it may not redefine the genre, its earnest portrayal of lesbian relationships and manga culture makes it a standout choice for players seeking inclusive storytelling in adult-oriented games.
Game Link: Ecchi Sketch
