Ikuno Komaki

I’ve always had a weak spot for bittersweet romances, and this is no exception. Ikuno’s story is a game extra and a the continuation of Manaka, her older sister’s story; and as the story begins Takaki has already become Manaka’s boyfriend. Yes, as cheesy romances go, this one’s set up is as generic as it gets: the chronically ill younger sister who got released from the hospital, feeling protective, goes on a date with her older sister’s boyfriend to see if he’s worthy of her sister.

But the story isn’t about that. The story is about Ikuno, her struggles with her illness, her life after she was released from the hospital and her feelings for someone who will never love her in return. Sure, the story’s simple, sure it’s not the most original plot ever, but a story doesn’t need those things to be good. The true ending can only be reached after the player chooses choices that force Ikuno to conquer her fears and be aware of her feelings, and the end product is powerful indeed.

At the beginning, the player is asked to type in their name. I was confused at the point of this, as the entire story is told through Ikuno’s persepective. But at the end I was plesantly surprised at a twist that strangly reminded me of Ever17.  The ending was very hopeful and left me wishing for a fandisc featuring Ikuno and her future.