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A YEAR OF SPRINGS

Xbox One, PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, PC (Microsoft Windows), Linux, Xbox Series X|S, Mac, PlayStation 4, Android • 2021

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Quick resume

Experience the stories of Haru, Erika, and Manami, a trio of friends navigating their feelings of love, connection, and just wanting to belong.

Global score

99/100

Genres

Casual, Indie, Simulator, Visual Novel, Adventure

Pros

  • Authentic and sensitive lgbtq+ representation
  • Heartwarming and relatable characters
  • Multiple endings encouraging replay
  • Calming art style and soundtrack
  • Short and accessible narrative experience

Cons

  • Short overall playtime
  • Minimal gameplay challenge
  • Some endings feel abrupt or less developed
  • Limited interactivity beyond choices
  • Linear narrative structure in parts

Motivations

  • Autonomy
    3

    "Players make choices that influence character interactions and multiple endings, showing player agency within a narrative framework."

  • Competence
    -3

    "Gameplay consists mainly of reading and making narrative choices with minimal skill challenge or technical difficulty."

  • Competition
    -5

    "No competitive elements; focus is on personal story experience without comparison to others."

  • Continuation
    2

    "Players engage with multiple endings and replay to explore different story paths, indicating some habitual engagement."

  • Cooperation
    -5

    "Single-player visual novel focused on individual narrative experience without multiplayer or teamwork."

  • Creativity
    1

    "Players create narrative outcomes through choices, but within predefined storylines and structure."

  • Domination
    -5

    "No elements of exerting control or superiority over others; interactions are narrative and empathetic."

  • Escapism
    4

    "Players immerse in a fictional, emotionally rich world to explore identity and social issues, providing emotional refuge."

  • Expectation
    -4

    "Engagement driven by personal interest and emotional connection rather than obligation or external pressure."

  • Experimenting
    3

    "Multiple endings and branching choices encourage exploration of different narrative possibilities."

  • Exploration
    2

    "Players explore different perspectives and storylines within the same setting, discovering character insights."

  • Expression
    2

    "Players express themselves through choice-driven narrative paths, though no character customization."

  • Fantasy
    -4

    "Strong focus on realistic, grounded experiences of transgender and LGBTQ+ individuals in everyday life."

  • Fellowship
    4

    "Themes emphasize friendship, community, and emotional support among characters, fostering a sense of belonging."

  • Growth
    4

    "Narrative centers on personal development, self-discovery, and understanding of identity and relationships."

  • Health
    -5

    "No physical activity or health-related gameplay elements; sedentary visual novel experience."

  • Idle
    -4

    "Requires focused reading and decision-making; not designed for casual or background play."

  • Intimacy
    4

    "Strong emotional connections and exploration of close relationships and identity form core of experience."

  • Leadership
    -5

    "No leadership or group management elements; focus is on individual narrative experience."

  • Progression
    3

    "Progression through story chapters and unlocking multiple endings and gallery content."

  • Relaxation
    4

    "Calming art style, soothing music, and gentle pacing create a relaxing and emotionally cathartic experience."

  • Sensation
    2

    "Pleasant pastel visuals and music provide moderate sensory stimulation aligned with emotional tone."

  • Status
    -5

    "No social status or recognition mechanics; experience is private and personal."

  • Story
    5

    "Strong narrative focus with deep character development and multiple interwoven storylines."

  • Strategy
    -4

    "Choice-based gameplay involves minimal strategic or analytical thinking; mostly narrative decisions."

  • Thrill
    -4

    "Emotional tension arises from story but lacks suspense or risk-based thrill elements."

  • Value
    3

    "Players perceive good value for time and money due to emotional impact and replayability."

  • Violence
    -5

    "No violence or combat; focus on constructive emotional and social themes."

  • Survival
    -5

    "No survival or threat avoidance mechanics; stable, low-risk narrative environment."

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    Last update: 06/03/2026