Info about Atelier Lulua ~The Scion of Arland~:

Official game description:
Digital Deluxe Edition
======================
This title is available both as a stand alone and as a part of a discounted Digital Deluxe Edition set deal featuring Season Pass content. Content of Atelier Lulua ~The Scion of Arland~ Digital Deluxe Edition: ・Atelier Lulua ~The Scion of Arland~ ・Atelier Lulua ~The Scion of Arland~ Season Pass "Lulua" (Released on June 4th, 2019) - Lulua's Outfit "Mom's Favorite" (Released on June 4th, 2019) - Aurel's Outfit "The Ultimate Knight Supreme" (Released on June 4th, 2019) - Eva's Outfit "Little Girlfriend" (Released on June 4th, 2019) - GUST Extra BGM Pack (Released on June 25th, 2019) - Extra High Difficulty Area: Machina Domain (Released on July 30th, 2019) Note: - Individual release dates are subject to change. - Please check the official website for official details and more information. - The Season Pass "Lulua" for Atelier Lulua ~The Scion of Arland~ can be purchased separately, but the Digital Deluxe Edition bundle offers both at a discount than buying each item individually.
About the Game
==============
Once again, the hands of the clock have begun to move... And the future of "this world" rests on the shoulders of a single girl. The long awaited 4th installment of the popular "Arland" series that had begun with the "Atelier Rorona"! In this new story, players will revisit the nostalgic world of Arland and embark on exciting journey of alchemy together with Rorona's daughter, Lulua. The dream of this young girl living in the small town on the border of the Arland Republic is to overcome her legendary mother in the mastery of alchemy. Unravel the future that awaits her beyond the mystery of this "ancient manuscript" and join Lulua and her companions on a new adventure through Arland!

Release date: May 20, 2019

Categories: JRPG, Alchemy System, Turn-based Combat, Crafting, Inventory Management, Anime-themed Gameplay, Story-driven Gameplay

Feature scans:
- MTX: score 20; verdict: Fair but DLC-Heavy; No In-Game MTX Evidence; summary: The reviews contain complaints about paid DLC characters, season passes, and deluxe edition pricing. The strongest concern is that Totori and Meruru are locked behind individual paid DLC, which some fans consider mandatory for full enjoyment. However, there is no direct evidence of in-game real-money purchases, gacha, loot boxes, paid power, convenience items, or currency obfuscation. Under the scoring rules, traditional DLC and season-pass complaints alone cannot push the score above 20.
- Wiki: score 50; verdict: Tier 3: The Student; summary: The reviews highlight a strong dependency on external wikis and guides for understanding complex crafting mechanics and for completing missable achievements, endings, and character unlocks. One user also notes that guides are not necessary for self-directed play. The dominant barrier is instructional data, not resource farming or inventory management.

- Hardware Profile: No data
Feature extractions:
- Community Price:
  - Community fair range: $15.00 - $40.00
  - Reasoning: The reviews repeatedly treat the full $59.99 price as too high or only worthwhile on sale. One reviewer says they can recommend the game only at 75% off, implying roughly $15, while another says a 10% discount was still not enough. Others advise waiting for a steep discount or a general sale to avoid feeling cheated. Although one content-based review calls an $85 AUD price reasonable (about $55 USD), that is a minority view. The dominant sentiment supports a fair base-game range of about $15-$40, centered on discounted rather than full price.
- Playtime Metrics:
  - Game completion: 80.0h
  - Story completion: 50.0h
  - Session length: N/A
  - Endgame: 30.0h
  - Reasoning: The completion evidence comes from reports of a Hard-mode platinum in 76 hours, nearly 80 hours before platinum, and about 100 hours for all achievements, so 80 hours is a representative full-completion/platinum estimate. The story-completion estimate is based on the statement that a first playthrough takes at least 50+ hours, with another report noting 72 hours without full completion, consistent with a longer first playthrough. The endgame estimate comes from the review stating that the final 30 hours included 20 hours of checking tables and deriving formulas, indicating roughly 30 hours of late-game optimization. No review gives a clear typical single-session length, so sessionLength is null.
- Time-to-fun:
  - Summary: This game often clicks after early friction for players who invest in its alchemy and combat systems, though the slow opening and mid-game repetition can blunt enjoyment for others.
  - Stance: Clicks after
  - Anchor: N/A
  - Time to anchor: N/A
  - Friction: Slow, bland beginning and progression; Weak early bombs and equipment; Overinflated HP on early common enemies; Long tutorial and material-farming patience demand; Weird or random chapter progression timing; Boring protagonist and story elements
  - Unlock drivers: Deep alchemy system enabling powerful mid-game builds; Improved pacing and time management versus earlier games; Well-paced Alchemy Riddle progression with rewards and story advancement; Strong combat system for alchemy and bomb-focused players; Deliberate plot pacing that gradually builds stakes
  - Conditions: Patience for farming materials; Tolerance for a long tutorial; Willingness to spend time playing slowly; Investment in alchemy and combat systems; Tolerance for a slow start and uneven chapter pacing; Tolerance for mid-game challenge dropping after becoming overpowered
- Player Archetypes:
  - Arland Nostalgia Loyalist (buy)
    - Motivation: Reconnecting with Arland characters and continuing a beloved series
    - Playstyle: Story- and character-focused playthroughs, often with high emotional investment in the returning cast
    - Experience: veteran
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: old player; Atelier fan; series fan
    - Reference games: Arland series; Atelier series
  - Cozy Newcomer Relaxation Seeker (buy)
    - Motivation: Relaxing in a heartwarming, accessible JRPG with cheerful music and no time pressure
    - Playstyle: Casual, low-stress play focused on story, alchemy, and atmosphere rather than optimization
    - Experience: newcomer
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: newcomer; first-timer; new alchemist
    - Reference games: Atelier Ryza
  - Alchemy Systems Min-Maxer (buy)
    - Motivation: Mastering alchemy and combat systems through optimization and high-difficulty challenges
    - Playstyle: Min-maxing traits, recipes, party item usage, interrupt timing, and endgame gear
    - Experience: veteran
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: battle maniac; old player; multi-playthrough player
    - Reference games: Arland trilogy; Atelier Ryza
  - Value-Conscious DLC Skeptic (deep sale)
    - Motivation: Getting the complete Atelier experience at a fair price without overpaying for DLC
    - Playstyle: Patient purchasing, waiting for sales, and evaluating season-pass content before committing
    - Experience: mixed
    - Purchase stance: deep sale
    - Labels: N/A
    - Reference games: Atelier Totori; Atelier Meruru


Below are summaries of things people say about the game per category.
Each point is assigned a weight that represents how often it is mentioned across all reviews.
What players like:
- No time limit praised (weight 0.5): Players appreciate the absence of a time limit, which allows for relaxed and leisurely play at their own pace. This feature is frequently mentioned as a major improvement over previous entries.
- Alchemy system deep and rewarding (weight 0.5): The alchemy system is widely praised for its complexity, depth, and engaging mechanics, including material components, effects, awakening, and traits. Many find it rewarding to master and highly replayable.
- Strong positive gameplay impressions (weight 0.31): General praise for the gameplay, with many players calling it good, fun, and problem-free. This is a high-frequency positive sentiment across several clusters.
- Excellent soundtrack and music (weight 0.3): The game's soundtrack and music are consistently praised as fantastic, memorable, and cheerful, with the DLC soundtrack noted as particularly good.
- Charming and varied characters (weight 0.24): Characters are widely praised as charming, lovely, lively, and cute, with a good variety of unique traits and fluid, life-like interactions.
- Lulua is cute and lovable (weight 0.19): The protagonist Lulua is frequently described as cute, hilarious, energetic, and lovable. Her character adds charm to the overall experience.
- Interrupt mechanic adds combat depth (weight 0.15): The Interrupt mechanic is noted for adding strategic depth to combat and introducing a new gimmick to the battle system.
- Relaxing and heartwarming atmosphere (weight 0.11): Many players find the game extremely relaxing and heartwarming, with one calling it the most cheerful and relaxing game they've played.
- Engaging combat system (weight 0.11): The combat system is praised as very good, excellent, and highly engaging.
- Lighthearted story with heartfelt moments (weight 0.11): The story balances lighthearted slice-of-life moments with heartfelt character interactions, featuring funny scenes and well-developed characters.
- Nostalgic return to Arland (weight 0.11): Veterans appreciate the nostalgic elements from past Arland games, including returning maps, music, and aged characters.
- Improved graphics over predecessors (weight 0.11): The graphics are noted as much better and not stuck at 720p compared to other games in the series. This is seen as a clear improvement.
- Adjustable difficulty settings (weight 0.11): The ability to adjust difficulty at any time is appreciated, allowing players to tailor the challenge to their preference.
- Interesting elemental gauge alchemy (weight 0.11): The alchemy system with elemental gauges is seen as interesting and different from the Ryza series, adding a unique twist.
- Alchemy accessible to newcomers (weight 0.11): Some players find the alchemy system simpler and easier to learn than the previous game, making it accessible for newcomers.
- Large maps (weight 0.1): The maps are noted to be large, providing ample space for exploration.

Common complaints:
- Reused assets and poor graphics (weight 0.59): The graphics are criticized for poor 3D modeling, stiff animations, and reused assets. Textures and environments look outdated, and the art style is seen as a downgrade.
- Combat too easy or difficult (weight 0.53): Combat is either too easy with no tension or unfairly difficult with bullet-sponge enemies and sudden difficulty spikes. Balance issues make the experience frustrating.
- Story premise and writing flaws (weight 0.51): The premise of Rorona having a daughter is seen as nonsensical, and the script is bad. The writing is criticized as the worst in the series, with forced plot devices and poor pacing.
- Slow pacing and grindy gameplay (weight 0.43): The game starts slowly and becomes grindy, with repetitive gathering and combat. Progression is slow, and the pacing is criticized as poor.
- Missing and sidelined characters (weight 0.42): Many characters from previous games are absent or barely appear, disappointing fans. Key figures like Cordelia, Esty, and others are missing, and some returning characters have little screen time.
- Excessive and expensive DLC (weight 0.42): The game has a barrage of DLC, including multiple season passes and costly add-ons. Players feel the monetization is excessive and the content lacking, especially for the price.
- Stia relationship underdeveloped (weight 0.42): The relationship between Lulua and Stia is not developed enough, making Lulua's determination feel unearned. Stia's importance feels forced and lacks emotional impact.
- Lack of quality-of-life features (weight 0.35): The game lacks quality-of-life improvements like battle speed-up and autosave. Features such as item duplication and restock are missing or inconvenient, making the experience tedious.
- Technical issues and poor performance (weight 0.34): The game suffers from lag, stutters, and frequent crashes, even after adjusting settings. Some players also report motion sickness and difficulties with fullscreen and resolution settings.
- Totori and Meruru locked behind DLC (weight 0.31): Players criticize that Totori and Meruru are only available through paid DLC, not playable from the start. This requires extra payment to include them in the party, which feels cheap for main characters of previous games.
- Alchemy system overly complex (weight 0.3): The synthesis system is criticized for being too complex and confusing, requiring excessive planning and documentation. Some find it less fun than in older games, while others note it can be too simple for veterans.
- Keyboard and controller issues (weight 0.29): Keyboard controls are unintuitive, with non-standard key bindings and no keyboard-only scheme. The game requires a controller for proper play, and mouse support is absent.
- Motion sickness from camera (weight 0.28): The camera speed and automatic following cause severe motion sickness in some players, making the game unplayable. Frequent transitions and unsmooth rotation add to the discomfort.
- Character changes disliked (weight 0.28): Changes to characters' personalities and appearances are criticized, such as Cole, Piana, and Rorona. The voice actor change for Keina and Sterk's redesign also disappoint.
- Story and characters disappoint (weight 0.27): Many reviewers find the story bland, boring, and lacking compared to other Atelier games. The characters also fall short, contributing to a disappointing experience.
- Awkward story and dialogue (weight 0.26): Some parts of the story feel awkward, and dialogues between characters can be cringeworthy. The plot is also criticized for being nonsensical and poorly written.
- Removal of time management system (weight 0.26): The schedule system with tension has been completely removed, eliminating the time pressure that defined the Arland series. This makes the game feel less engaging and lacking in challenge.
- Disappointing Deluxe Edition content (weight 0.25): The Digital Deluxe version offers disappointing content, such as limited costumes and a DLC dungeon with little added story. Many regret purchasing it due to the lack of value.
- Weak conclusion to Arland series (weight 0.23): As the final entry in the Arland series, the game's true ending is abrupt and least impressive. The overall conclusion feels regrettable and fails to satisfy as a series finale.

Gameplay feedback:
- Alchemy system is complex and rewarding (weight 0.93): The game features a deep alchemy system with elemental gauges, positive/negative interactions, and high complexity. It is a classic Atelier alchemy experience with depth that rewards mastery.
- Turn-based combat with interrupt system (weight 0.69): Combat is turn-based and includes an interrupt mechanic that allows characters to use items without consuming them. Support characters in the back row can execute follow-up moves based on front row actions.
- Fourth game in Arland series (weight 0.48): The game is the fourth entry in the Atelier Arland subseries and features returning characters from the Arland trilogy. It is a direct sequel within the Arland storyline.
- No time limit for progression (weight 0.4): Unlike previous Atelier games, this title removes time management and deadlines, allowing players to progress the story freely. This change is frequently noted and appreciated.
- Adjustable difficulty settings (weight 0.31): Players can change the difficulty at any time, including Easy, Normal, and Hard or above. Normal difficulty is considered easy by some.
- Synthesis uses quality and traits (weight 0.31): The synthesis system involves ingredient quality, elemental values, traits, and modifiers. It is considered simplistic compared to the Dusk series but easier to learn than the Mysterious series.
- Alchemy riddle book unlocks content (weight 0.29): An alchemy riddle book provides riddles that, when solved, unlock recipes, gathering areas, and combat abilities. The book has basic and advanced riddles, with hints available.
- DLC adds new characters (weight 0.18): DLC introduces new playable characters, including Totori and Meruru from previous Arland games.
- 5-person party combat (weight 0.18): Combat features a party of up to 5 characters: 3 in the front row (player-controlled) and 2 in the back row (support).
- Large maps and world navigation (weight 0.17): The game features large maps, and the world consists of small locations connected by routes on a world map.
- Part of Atelier series (weight 0.15): The game is part of the long-running Atelier series and is a modern entry in the franchise.
- Side quests for characters (weight 0.14): The game includes side quests for each character, adding additional content and character development.
- Basic turn-based combat system (weight 0.11): The game has a basic turn-based combat system typical of JRPGs.
- Japanese voice acting present (weight 0.1): The game features Japanese voiceovers for all dialogues, though one mispronounced word was noted.

Performance notes:
- Game crashes and launch failures (weight 0.34): The game may fail to launch or crash due to missing system requirements, sleep mode issues, or other causes. Solutions include installing Windows updates, verifying files, and ensuring hardware.
- Poor PC port optimization (weight 0.28): Many users report severe performance issues, including bad optimization and frame rate problems. The port is often described as terrible and requires heavy tinkering to run acceptably.
- Fullscreen and resolution issues (weight 0.27): Setting up fullscreen and proper resolution is difficult, with stretching on non-16:9 screens and need for external tools. Editing configuration files is required for fullscreen and 4K.
- Frame rate problems on Nvidia (weight 0.26): Users experience frame rate issues on Nvidia cards, often resolved by disabling V-sync or updating drivers. Modifying graphics card control panel can improve FPS.
- Stable performance reported (weight 0.21): Some users report generally stable performance or no problems, aside from usual port issues. This contrasts with widespread complaints.
- Uncapped framerate support (weight 0.11): The PC port supports an uncapped framerate, which can lead to high FPS on capable hardware. However, this may also cause inconsistencies without proper settings.
- Improvements over previous ports (weight 0.1): The PC port is considered better than the prior two games and automatically detects Nvidia cards. This shows some progress in porting quality.
- Anti-aliasing could improve (weight 0.1): The anti-aliasing quality is subpar, with occasional soft textures and inconsistent frame rates. This affects visual fidelity.
- No mouse camera control (weight 0.07): The PC port lacks mouse control for the camera, which is a significant drawback for PC players. This is part of generally poor porting quality.
- Chinese port compatibility issues (weight 0.06): The official Chinese PC port has severe compatibility issues, making it problematic for users in that region. This is specific to the Chinese version.
- Motion sickness from 3D (weight 0.06): Some players experience 3D motion sickness, making the game unplayable for them. This is a niche but critical issue for affected individuals.
- Linux support reported (weight 0.05): At least one user played on Linux (Ubuntu/Cinnamon), indicating some level of compatibility. However, this is a single report.

Recommendations:
- Appeals to Arland series veterans (weight 0.54): Many reviewers recommend this game specifically for players who have completed the Arland trilogy, as it offers nostalgic elements and revisits beloved characters. The world tour and familiar faces are major draws.
- Suitable for series newcomers (weight 0.41): Some clusters indicate the game is recommended for newcomers to the Atelier series, particularly those interested in trying the franchise. It can serve as an entry point for new players.
- Recommended to play trilogy first (weight 0.4): A recurring recommendation is to play the original Arland trilogy (Rorona, Totori, Meruru) before this game to fully enjoy the story and avoid feeling lost. However, some note it can be played without the trilogy but with less emotional impact.
- Strongly recommended for Atelier fans (weight 0.38): Multiple clusters highlight that this game is highly recommended for fans of the Atelier series. It is considered a must-play for those already invested in the franchise.
- Deep alchemy system praised (weight 0.33): Fans who enjoy complex alchemy systems find this game highly recommended due to its deep crafting mechanics. The depth of the alchemy system is a key selling point for enthusiasts.
- Not ideal as first Atelier (weight 0.31): Several reviewers caution against making this your first Atelier game due to the abundance of returning characters and references. They suggest starting with Atelier Rorona or other entries instead.
- Wait for discount (weight 0.3): Many reviewers recommend waiting for a sale or buying at a discount, with suggestions ranging from 25% to 75% off. Some feel the game is not worth full price.
- Good for specific preferences (weight 0.19): The game is recommended for players who like colorful fantasy, turn-based combat, and alchemy as core gameplay. Conversely, it is not recommended for those who dislike gathering and optimizing recipes.
- Skip Digital Deluxe, buy DLC (weight 0.13): It is recommended to buy only the base game or spend extra on character DLC instead of the Digital Deluxe version. This suggests the Deluxe edition may not offer good value.
- Cozy RPG for relaxation (weight 0.11): The game is highly recommended for seekers of cozy RPGs and those who want a relaxing or heartwarming experience. It fits the niche of comfort games.
- Lacks tension, heavy comedy (weight 0.11): The game is not recommended for those seeking a tense experience or those who dislike high amounts of comedy. It has a lighthearted tone.
- Great PC port, gamepad advised (weight 0.1): The PC port is praised and recommended, but a gamepad is highly recommended for optimal experience. This is useful technical advice.
- Wait for steep discount (weight 0.06): Some reviewers advise waiting for a pretty steep discount before purchasing, echoing the wait-for-sale sentiment. This reinforces the value concern.
- Mediocre as standalone (weight 0.06): One cluster states the game is mediocre as a standalone Atelier game, suggesting it relies heavily on nostalgia. This aligns with the need to play prior games.
- Caution for series veterans (weight 0.06): One reviewer warns veterans to be careful not to destroy their memories of the original series. This suggests that some long-time fans may have mixed feelings.
- Control issues caused refund (weight 0.06): A reviewer refunded the game due to control issues, indicating potential problems with the PC port or controls. This is a specific negative point.
- Arland series not worth playing (weight 0.06): One cluster claims the Arland series as a whole is not worth playing and wastes time. This is a dissenting opinion against the majority.
- Not recommended due to monetization (weight 0.06): One reviewer does not recommend the game due to excessive monetization, likely referring to DLC practices. This is a specific criticism.
- Fan disc for Arland series (weight 0.06): One reviewer suggests thinking of this game as a fan disc for the Arland series rather than a new main entry. This sets expectations for its scope.
- Play Totori instead (weight 0.05): One reviewer suggests playing Totori instead of this game, implying a preference for an earlier title.

Other player notes:
- Fourth entry in Arland series (weight 0.66): This game is the fourth installment in the Arland series, released for the 10th anniversary. It continues the story of the Arland trilogy.
- Returning characters and references (weight 0.42): The game features many returning characters from previous Arland titles and includes references to the trilogy. Familiar faces and locations provide nostalgia for series veterans.
- Paid DLC characters Totori and Meruru (weight 0.27): The game offers Totori and Meruru as playable characters through paid DLC. The DLC also includes quests with these characters.
- Season passes and DLC structure (weight 0.26): The game is sold with multiple season passes, including ones for Lulua, Totori, and Meruru. Some DLCs are available outside of the season passes, adding characters, swimsuits, and stories.
- Accessible without prior games (weight 0.19): The story can be understood without playing the previous trilogy, though some dialogue references will be missed. It is connected to past games but still accessible to newcomers.
- Multiple endings and New Game+ (weight 0.15): The game offers around twelve endings, including character-specific and joke endings. It also includes a New Game+ mode and achievements.
- Japanese voiceovers only (weight 0.11): The game does not have an English voice-over and only provides Japanese voice acting.
- High price point (weight 0.11): The game's price is considered too steep by some reviewers. It sells at a high price compared to other titles.
- Deluxe edition includes season pass (weight 0.11): The deluxe edition includes the first season pass, which mainly contains BGM and three costumes.
- Only Atelier on Steam without DX (weight 0.11): This is the only Atelier game on Steam that does not have a DX version. Other Atelier games are not available on Steam.
- Compared to Atelier Ryza (weight 0.11): The game is often compared to Atelier Ryza, with some reviewers preferring Ryza's story. It is also compared to Ryza 2.
- Nelke is a spin-off (weight 0.1): Nelke is a spin-off game and was released as a 20th anniversary title.

Emotions:
- Disappointment (weight 0.28): Players are disappointed by the underdeveloped story and character arcs, especially Stia's thin development and anticlimactic endings. The DLC content, including the Digital Deluxe edition, is seen as underwhelming, and the shift to 3D models with stiff animations feels like a step back. Many also feel the game fails as a sequel due to sidelined returning characters, lack of quality-of-life improvements, and a less engaging alchemy system.
- Frustration (weight 0.25): Frustration stems from technical issues like severe lag, crashes, and poor PC optimization that make the game unplayable for some. Tedious inventory management, complex alchemy systems, and grinding for materials or friendship points add to the irritation. Additionally, expensive DLC, lack of battle speed-up options, and unclear hints during difficult combat contribute to a highly frustrating experience.
- Enjoyment (weight 0.16): Players enjoy the deep and complex alchemy system, finding it addictive and rewarding to master. The strategic turn-based combat and absence of time pressure allow for leisurely exploration and experimentation. Many also appreciate the engaging story, character interactions, and the high freedom in synthesis routes.
- Satisfaction (weight 0.09): Satisfaction comes from the removal of time limits, which allows for relaxed gameplay and experimentation. Improved graphics, a streamlined alchemy system, and excellent PC performance contribute to a satisfying experience. Fans also appreciate the return of classic elements and the ability to craft powerful items.
- Nostalgia (weight 0.08): Nostalgia is evoked by revisiting the Arland world, with returning characters, music, and maps from previous games. Seeing Rorona, Totori, and Meruru together again after years, and exploring familiar locations remade in a new engine, deeply resonates with long-time fans. The game's focus on past characters and settings creates a strong sense of nostalgia.
- Annoyance (weight 0.07): Annoyance arises from minor but irritating issues such as a mispronounced Japanese voice line, tedious warehouse management, and camera controls that cause disorientation. The decision to make Totori and Meruru paid DLC and the presence of multiple season passes also frustrate players.
- Excitement (weight 0.05): Excitement is driven by the announcement of a fourth Arland game featuring Rorona's daughter, and the return of older characters from the series. New graphical advancements, an interesting awakening system, and high yuri content also generate enthusiasm among fans.
- Joy (weight 0.03): Joy is derived from the mature and satisfying systems that have evolved over six previous games, offering a lot of activities. Charming characters like Lulua, cheerful atmosphere, and relaxing music contribute to a joyful experience.
- Happiness (weight 0.03): Happiness comes from seeing past playable characters and discovering what they are doing now. The game's ability to consistently bring a smile, along with enjoyable themes and synthesis, creates a warm and happy feeling.
- Amusement (weight 0.03): Amusement is found in character developments, jokes about relationships, and the hilarious antics of Lulua and the bonkers plot. Side stories like the curry ending and Meruru's story, as well as quirky encyclopedia dialogues, provide comedic entertainment.
- Appreciation (weight 0.03): Players appreciate the freedom to experiment with crafting ideal items without time limits, and the replayable and engaging alchemy system. The game's accessible alchemy mechanics, comfortable UI, and explanations of unresolved settings also earn gratitude.
- Dissatisfaction (weight 0.03): Dissatisfaction is rooted in the barrage of DLC that locks main characters behind paywalls and the feeling that the ending is incomplete. Poor graphics, stiff animations, and abrupt story developments further contribute to a sense of unmet expectations.
- Discomfort (weight 0.03): Discomfort is primarily caused by 3D motion sickness triggered by camera settings and transitions. The automatic behind-following camera in narrow places and at map edges exacerbates nausea for some players.
- Sadness (weight 0.03): Sadness is evoked by deep and realistic stories that ask existential questions, and by the lonely home and untended field. Underdeveloped supporting characters, particularly Stiel's story, also contribute to a melancholic feeling.
- Relaxation (weight 0.02): Relaxation stems from the removal of the time mechanic, allowing players to progress at their own pace. The bright color palette and cheerful, relaxing atmosphere further enhance this sense of calm.
- Anger (weight 0.02): Anger is directed at severe compatibility issues in the PC port of Atelier Meruru, and excessive monetization through multiple season passes and DLC. The poor treatment of characters Keina and Lionela also incites anger.
- Dislike (weight 0.02): Dislike is expressed for the overreliance on comedy and poor writing, as well as Sterk's new character design. The puzzle book setting requiring puzzle-solving for daily items also detracts from the experience.
- Admiration (weight 0.02): Admiration is felt for the awakening system's ability to produce rich variations and GUST's capability. The gorgeous graphics and sublime animations also inspire awe.
- Moved (weight 0.02): Being moved is caused by the urgent search for the mother and the emotional reunion scene. Visiting Meruru's atelier in Arls also evokes strong sentimental feelings.
- Confusion (weight 0.02): Confusion arises from getting lost on the large map at the start and uncertainty about what the Digital Deluxe Edition adds. Many open questions and missing content further contribute to a confused state.}