Basic Information
- Official English Name: TroubleDays
- Development & Publishing Team: Developed by qureate and iMel Inc; published by Nutaku, Denpasoft, Kagura Games, and others
- Release Dates: Nintendo Switch (July 2020), PC (Windows) via multiple platforms including GOG and Steam
- Supported Platforms: Nintendo Switch, PC (Windows)
- Game Tags: Visual Novel, Adult Content, Romance, Slice-of-Life
- Social Media Presence:
- Twitter: @qureate_inc
- Steam Page: TroubleDays
- Official Website: qureate.co.jp/troubledays
In-Depth Review
TroubleDays is a lighthearted adult visual novel that combines humor, romance, and fantasy elements, centering around the relationship between a human protagonist and a naive succubus named Lovelia. Set in Akihabara, the game offers a blend of slice-of-life scenarios and romantic interactions, supported by vibrant character designs and key art that emphasizes fan service while maintaining a coherent narrative structure.
The game’s strongest aspect lies in its character development. Lovelia, the succubus protagonist, is portrayed as both endearing and comedic, her innocence contrasting humorously with her demonic nature. The dialogue, while occasionally marred by localization quirks, succeeds in creating a charming dynamic between the protagonist and Lovelia. Key art and character sprites are highly detailed, with Lovelia’s design being particularly notable for its blend of cuteness and sensuality.
Platform differences significantly impact the experience. The Nintendo Switch version lacks the R18 content available in the PC release, which includes additional scenes and gallery content accessible via an optional unrated patch. Players on PC can install this patch to unlock the full adult content, while console players are limited to a more toned-down experience. This dichotomy has led to mixed reactions, with some critics arguing that the succubus theme inherently requires the adult elements to feel authentic.
Community reception highlights both praise and criticism. Steam reviews show a 91% positive rating, with players appreciating the game’s lighthearted tone and Lovelia’s charm. However, forum discussions on platforms like Reddit and GBAtemp note issues with localization quality and the Switch version’s content restrictions. The game’s brevity—typically lasting 5-10 hours—has also been a point of contention, with some finding it too short for its price point.
Technically, the game utilizes the E-mote engine, allowing for dynamic character animations and scene transitions. While the Switch version’s performance is smooth, the lack of R18 content and minor localization errors detract from the experience. PC players benefit from higher resolution visuals and the optional patch, making it the preferred platform for those seeking the full adult experience.
For fans of visual novels with adult themes, TroubleDays offers a unique blend of humor and romance, though its execution is somewhat uneven. The game’s success hinges on Lovelia’s appeal, which, for many players, outweighs its technical and narrative limitations. However, potential buyers should consider platform differences carefully, as the content disparity between versions significantly alters the gameplay experience.
Game Link: Trouble Days