Cinders

Cinders is an excellent visual novel that makes the player think a lot about the Cinderella tale. With striking and very believable characters, it is possible to understand the motivations of each one and test dozens of different options to lead the protagonist in the way the player prefers, for better or for worse, and bear the consequences of those decisions. Despite not having Brazilian Portuguese localization and some rhythm issues, it is recommended for lovers of good stories.

The story in Cinders can and does veer off at unexpected tangents. Absolutely nothing is concrete, and what feels like the best choice can end up being the worst if a scenario is repeated a few times to see what will happen next. With a high replay value to experience different decisions, Cinders certainly provides a new take on a classic tale, with style and imagination that will impact gamers more than other versions of the tale can. A wide range of morals are presented to the gamer, making it their choice whether Cinderella is a kind girl, or one who looks out for herself, and is as selfish as her step-sisters initially seem.

To be honest, Cinders is one of the most enjoyable visual novels I’ve had the chance to review; a new take on a classic fairytale is an interesting way to go; it feels familiar and new at the same time. Thanks to the bevy of choices, replay value is through the roof, but as with any visual novel, it sometimes feels tedious going through the “same” story again, even if it leads to a different ending.

Despite being extremely poor gameplay-wise, Cinders is a fascinating, smart and fresh take on the (obsolete) Cinderella tale.

Cinders attempts a modern, feminist take on the classic fairy tale but poor writing and uninspired art leave it smothered in the ashes.

Cinders is a very nice and original title, but it is undoubtedly made and thought for a niche audience.

The bottom line of my playthrough is that not much I had done mattered in the end. If you are interested in playing Cinders, be prepared to play it to completion for the best experience because it is clear that not every door has a prize behind it, and not every ending suits a fairytale.

Cinders is a good example of a visual novel on the Nintendo Switch based on a familiar tale, that of Cinderella, told through a more modern lens. While the game is rather short, its four endings act like good motivators to keep the players focused, especially with its quality writing and appealing visuals. Cinders would only benefit from longer storylines that would amount to a lengthier experience.

Cinders' story had me hooked from beginning to end, while its compelling cast of characters, the themes it explores and its deviations from the traditional narrative of Cinderella made for a surprisingly poignant tale that I won't soon forget.

Cinders breathes new life into a tired fairytale in a way that is smart, dark and funny.