Basic Information
- Official English Name: Love, Money, Rock’n’Roll
- Developer & Publisher: Soviet Games
- Release Dates: Windows, macOS, Linux (August 4, 2022), iOS, Android (later 2023)
- Supported Platforms: PC (Windows, macOS, Linux), iOS, Android
- Genre Tags: Visual Novel, Adventure, Casual, Indie
- Social Media Presence: Steam Page, Official Website
In-Depth Review
Love, Money, Rock’n’Roll is a visually stunning visual novel that delves into the complexities of 1980s Japan, blending romance, corporate intrigue, and personal identity. Developed by Soviet Games, the creators of the cult classic Everlasting Summer, this title offers a narrative-driven experience with branching storylines and multiple endings, though its pacing and character development have sparked mixed reactions.
The game centers around Nikolai, a Soviet-Japanese teenager navigating a world of betrayal, love, and corporate conspiracies. Players encounter four distinct heroines—Himitsu, Catherine, Ellie, and Kagome—each with layered backstories and potential romantic routes. While the art style and soundtrack (featuring 5.5 hours of original music) are widely praised for capturing the era’s aesthetic, the writing quality remains divisive. Critics note that the protagonist’s impulsive decisions and the heroines’ initially unlikeable traits may alienate some players, though character depth unfolds gradually.
A key feature is its multiplatform accessibility, with optimized versions for PC, iOS, and Android. The Unity3D engine ensures smooth animations and responsive controls, while the 530,000-word script underscores its ambition. However, the game’s dark endings and morally ambiguous choices have led to warnings about its mature themes and potential emotional impact.
For fans of visual novels seeking a challenging narrative experience, Love, Money, Rock’n’Roll delivers a visually rich, albeit polarizing, journey through 1980s Japan. Its success lies in its bold storytelling and technical achievements, though players sensitive to graphic content or complex moral dilemmas may need to approach cautiously.
Game Link: Love, Money, Rock'n'Roll