Aquadine is the latest Visual Novel to arrive on console – and it’s a bit special

You’ll probably know if Aquadine is going to be for you or not from the ‘visual novel’ tag that is attached to it. If indeed you’re one of the many who have fallen for this ever-bulging genre, then it’s one you won’t want to miss. Equally though, we’re not sure it’s going to tempt in newcomers. 

Available today via the SoftColors and Ratalaika Games teams with release on Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, PS4, PS5 and Nintendo Switch, Aquadine has already done the rounds on PC previously, providing players with the chance to take in a narrative that focuses on the foursome of Anya, Diana, Cameron and Elisabeth. 

It’s they who provide the tales which unfold, with four different narratives playing out depending on the character in focus. Complete them all – and failing is never part of the agenda – and you’ll unlock a Memories epilogue; the true end of Aquadine. 

Aquadine is certainly beautiful to look at, and whether you’re the target audience or not – we weren’t when we reviewed, but that didn’t stop us having a good old time – should find a wonderful story that is full of interesting characters. Of course though, it’s a Visual Novel and that means there isn’t much in terms of ‘gameplay’ – whethe that is an issue will boil down to personal preference. 

If you are sold, expect the following key features…

• Four heroine routes
• Stunning visuals
• Gallery feature allows players to relive their favourite art and music
• 25 Songs
• Partial voice acting
• Sound preferences
• Anime influence
• Impacting story

Aquadine is on the Xbox Store for Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S costing £19.99. It’s also on PS4, PS5 and Nintendo Switch. Oh, and PC via Steam too. 

Game Description:

After his mother was hospitalized for an unknown disease, Robin Liyun works as a part-time gondolier to make ends meet, but under an alias named Ciel. As he finishes giving tours one night, a mysterious voice lures him to discover a beautiful mermaid. She dives underwater shortly after their encounter, which leads him to believe the Ancient Aquadine was real. Robin continues to live out his double life while making new friends and learning more about the merfolk civilization.