Aokana - Four Rhythms Across the Blue
Aokana is one of those romantic visual novels where yes, you are eventually trying to win over one of your classmates. But, it’s structured in such a way that the journey, your school life, and the Flying Circus team you help coach feel equally important.
Ultimately, reading Aokana often feels like eating a variety pack of candy. Sure, there may be some flavors that don’t hit in ways that some do. But the ratio of good outweighs the bad here, and opening the box in the first place is a safe bet for a good read.
Aokana: Four Rhythms Across the Blue doesn't reinvent the wheel, but it's one of the most interesting visual novels I've played lately, all thanks to the world it creates and the lovely array of characters.
Review in Spanish | Read full review
“Censorship” is one of those words that always feels oppressive, and yet Aokana – Four Rhythms Across the Blue doesn’t need any of that adult content because it’s not the game’s point; this is an uplifting, frequently hilarious visual novel that succeeds on the quality of its characterizations and the sneaky rhythm of its conversations that makes it possible for deep-seated trauma and dirty jokes to coexist without either extreme being jarring. It’s fantastic.
Aokana: Four Rhythm Across the Blue is an enjoyable sci-fi fantasy visual novel full of compelling characters and exceptional presentation. The Switch offers a pleasant way to experience the game through portability at the cost of downscaled resolution. Although it may miss its landing with the main character’s plot and several forgettable themes, there’s so much here that will keep you soaring through each and every route.
It’s nice to know that my already-high expectations for visual novels can still be surpassed from time to time, and I have Aokana: Four Rhythms Across the Blue to thank for that. Despite mainly focusing upon basics such as love, friendship, and determination, the whole of it ultimately culminates into sublime VN experience. If you like VNs, you’re going to like Aokana. It’s really that simple.
I would highly recommend Aokana - Four Rhythms Across the Blue to visual novel fans who enjoy either the sports theme or the light comedy style the story is told with. While I did have minor complaints about the romance in most routes, I felt it was one of the best visual novels of 2019.
