Basic Information
- Official English Name: Please Be Happy
- Developer & Publisher: Studio Élan
- Release Dates: November 21, 2022 (Global)
- Supported Platforms: PC (Steam, GOG, itch.io)
- Game Tags: Visual Novel, Romance, Story-Driven, Otome
- Social Links:
itch.io |
Steam
In-Depth Review
Story and Characters
Please Be Happy unfolds in a fictionalized Wellington, New Zealand, following Miho—a fox girl cursed to live in human form. Her journey of self-discovery intertwines with relationships built through kindness and vulnerability. The narrative balances humor and poignancy, exploring themes of identity, belonging, and the power of human connection. Players navigate Miho’s relationships with two romantic leads, Aspen (a barista) and Juliet (a vampire librarian), while also engaging with a diverse cast of secondary characters, each with their own subplots and emotional arcs.
Gameplay Mechanics
As a visual novel, the gameplay emphasizes choice-driven storytelling. Players make decisions impacting Miho’s relationships and ultimate endings. The title offers multiple routes and endings, requiring strategic save management to explore all possibilities. Beyond the romantic routes, side stories feature characters like Lena (a swan girl) and Mr. Kim (a fisherman), adding depth to the narrative. The game’s pacing is deliberate, encouraging replayability to uncover hidden story branches and achievements.
Visual and Audio Design
The hand-drawn art style combines soft textures and vibrant colors, creating a whimsical yet grounded aesthetic. Backgrounds and character designs reflect Wellington’s culture, while CG scenes highlight emotional moments. The soundtrack, composed by Sarah “Esselfortium” Mancuso, features a mix of piano and string arrangements that adapt dynamically to scene tone. Voice acting enhances character interactions, with full localization supporting immersion.
Community and Legacy
Please Be Happy has fostered a dedicated fanbase, with players creating fan art and community-driven challenges. Post-launch updates addressed accessibility concerns and added quality-of-life improvements. The game’s success has been recognized through positive reviews and community awards, solidifying its place in the visual novel genre. Its focus on emotional authenticity and slice-of-life storytelling continues to resonate with players seeking heartfelt narratives.
Game Link: Please Be Happy
