Basic Information
- Official English Name: Highschool Romance: Magi Trials
- Developer & Publisher: Dharker Studio
- Release Dates: December 20, 2016 (NA/EU/ASIA)
- Supported Platforms: PC
- Genre Tags: RPG, Visual Novel
- Social Media Presence: Twitter, Patreon, Steam
In-Depth Review
Highschool Romance: Magi Trials delivers a compelling narrative centered around Shaun, a male protagonist who inadvertently transforms into a female mage named Sophie while attempting a forbidden magical ritual. This gender-bending premise drives a story that explores identity, societal expectations, and the challenges of navigating a prestigious magic academy.
The game excels in its character dynamics, particularly the rivalry and eventual bond between Sophie and her classmate Charlie. Their interactions blend humor with deeper emotional layers, while Magi Shira, the enigmatic mentor, adds complexity to the plot. The visual novel features multiple endings, with six of the eight routes concluding in darker, more somber tones, reflecting the high stakes of magical academia.
Visually, the game maintains Dharker Studio’s signature vibrant art style, though background consistency and character sprite animations occasionally fall short. The writing, while engaging, shows minor grammatical errors and pacing issues, particularly in its 2-hour playthrough length. Despite these flaws, the title remains a standout in the genre for its bold exploration of gender identity and its ability to balance light-hearted moments with dramatic plot twists.
For fans of visual novels seeking a narrative-driven experience with LGBTQ+ themes, Highschool Romance: Magi Trials offers a unique blend of fantasy and personal growth, though its brevity may leave some players wanting more.
Game Link: Highschool Romance: Magi Trials
