Overall Solid VN
restricted12345
Honestly, my expectations were set pretty low because of the reputation of that other Purple Software VN released in the West, but I'd say that I really liked Hapymaher.Presentation: The CGs are well drawn, there are some nice scenes with a moving background, and the OST is really great. I honestly like the dynamic text box too. It's a minor detail, but it helps with the immersion. Characters: Most of the heroines are likable in their own way early on. Maia is especially great, even if she's more of a side character than a proper heroine. The protagonist is meh at first and same goes for Alice, but the character development they receive in the true route improves them drastically. Plot: Pretty good. It requires some willing suspension of disbelief, but it's about dreams and such. It can get a bit confusing at times, but those times are few. That said, the one major flaw of Hapymaher is that it's a bit bloated with SOL scenes. It's not a major flaw, but I'd say that there are a few too many banal scenes that could have been trimmed down. Otherwise, the pacing is fine, especially for a VN this large. One plus about the plot overall is that the H-scenes are surprisingly well-integrated. They feel like a natural part of the scenario rather than something that's jammed in for the sake of fan service. They don't feel jarring unless they are supposed to feel jarring, at least that's what it seems like.Routes: Honestly, there's no bad heroine route. Well, Maia's route is too short, but that's because her route is more of an extension of Saki's than something standalone for reasons that make sense in the context of the setting. In any case, I liked all of them. As for the order, true route should definitely be played last, and it's probably a good idea not to go to Saki or Alice first. I personally recommend Keiko, Yayoi, Maia, Saki, Alice (normal end), and Alice (true end), but you can deviate from that a bit without major consequences. Overall, I'd say to buy it. Despite some issues, it's worth the price. Hapymaher is a solid VN with good presentation, great characters, and a surprisingly engaging plot.
MG point:146
