Winter's Wish: Spirits of Edo

Winter’s Wish: Spirits of Edo is a solid historical otome adventure.

The two localizers of Otomate adventures are teaming up to test my speed-reading skills this month; another Aksys one (that mixes in rhythm game elements?) will be out by the time this review is live and Idea Factory International is dropping one at the end of the month. Maybe that's why Winter's Wish didn't exactly break the strings of my heart.

Can Suzuno save the day and find love along the way?

Would I recommend Winter’s Wish: Spirits of Edo? Yes, I would. If you are a lover of amazing sound, visuals and historical fiction like me, then this is a game for you. In saying this, I do want to say that not all the routes had an amazing storyline, and the romance was a little more toned down than expected. But I still think the main storyline of the game and some of the routes are worth playing it. And I do think it will fulfil your romance need.

With plenty of romance options, a frenetic pace, delicate art direction, and a great soundtrack, Winter's Wish Spirits of Edo is a complete adventure that's easy to recommend for Otome visual novel readers, whether veterans or newcomers.

By giving us a rare – albeit fantastic – look into an almost completely ignored period of Japanese history Otomate has given us a gift. Winter’s Wish is beautiful and written with a deft touch. We’ve got a great cast of characters, a meaty narrative to work through, and some notes to start learning more about a fascinating chapter of history. It’s a win all around.

In sum, Winter’s Wish: Spirits of Edo is an average title that may even be worth playing if you're interested in some character or have few options for your next translated otome to read, but I question the choice of localizing this specific visual novel, as there are many games in Otomate's catalogue better in both romance and narrative. Unfortunately, Winter’s Wish's story doesn't manage to be a highlight in battles or the relationships with the boys.

Winter's Wish: Spirits of Edo is the sort of Switch otome those who loved Hakuoki would enjoy due to its historical setting, supernatural elements, and fighting force.

Winter's Wish: Spirits of Edo takes us back to the samurai era with a story in the purest manganime style and a beautiful artwork.