Astrologaster

An unusual setup, interesting characters and tongue-in-cheek writing make Astrologaster one of the most fun visual novels around.

Despite a fun concept at its core, the characters and story don't pull players in as events unfold

You play an Elizabethan astrologer-physician treating a bunch of hilarious hypochondriacs in this well put together game

With that in mind (among other crimes) it would be easy to see him as the charlatan he is said to be by his enemies. But there are also moments that reveal a more complicated and conflicted man. In a short game full of haughty songs and jokes about willies, that’s an impressive achievement.

Astrologaster is perhaps the only time you'll ever get to play through a pop-up book version of London's 17th-century medical history. It's an extremely specific pitch, but when it hits, it hits well – and its musical interludes are as delightful and giggle-worthy as any of Shakespeare's best. Sure, it's not going to be to everyone's tastes, but if you're looking for something a little different and you're a fan of the classic British historical sitcom Blackadder, then you could do a lot worse than give this a spin.

Astrologaster is an incredibly original and fantastically designed experience that really captures the feel and tone of the Renaissance. From the impeccably researched astrology diagnoses to the infamous postscript of 'coitus after consultation' this is the most accessible way into the world of Simon Forman you could ever hope to find. Whether you mean to or not, you'll certainly learn something about one of the most eccentric characters in Renaissance London – just don't follow any of the medical advice. Trust me, I'm a doctor.

In Astrologaster you play as an unlicensed doctor who helps his patients by seeking guidance from the stars. This visual novel is full of fun choices, characters, and songs, as well as cool spiritual aspects that will keep you somewhat entertained.

As a game that came about by the creative director hearing a lecture on Forman’s casebooks, Astrologaster fits really well as a game. The idea to go with astronomy as the ‘skill’ with which you solve issues is a brilliant one. Leading with how Forman ‘cured’ the plague, to the Spanish Armada and gold fortunes, all to gaining his medical license, this package is a fun game to play, I recommend Astrologaster to anyone that enjoys this style of game, for it is put together incredibly well. Plus, at that price, what a bargain

Injecting humour into games is nothing new. There is an easily recallable list of such titles for the Switch from the classic Undertale though to Thimbleweed Park and Jenny LeClue. Now, there is a new title to add to that list. Astrologaster is a comic look at the way certain people thought back in Shakespearian London. There are nods to all sorts of events and historic occurrences, both true and conspiratorial.

Inspired by the spirit of Shakespeare’s Renaissance England, Astrologaster features a unique pop-up book art style, choral verse that tells the story of your character “Doctor” Forman and his patients, and use of the stars to try to help guide your patients through problems both medical and interpersonal...