Info about Letters From a Rainy Day -Oceans and Lace-:

Official game description:
**Luscious artwork brings the beautiful streets of Kamakura in June to life in this bittersweet sapphic story of a romance that begins with blackmail...**  
'Letters From a Rainy Day -Oceans and Lace-' is a yuri adventure game  
based on the theme of love between girls at a girls' school in Kamakura, Japan.  
One blackmail letter leads two strangers to start dating,  
and their relationship slowly changes.  
The Steam version includes Simplified Chinese, Traditional Chinese, English, and Japanese versions, and supports multiple languages that can be switched in-game.
**【STORY】**
-----------
The prestigious private girls' school, Kikyou Academy,  
educates young ladies from elementary age to university.  
With cell phones forbidden on school grounds,  
letter writing is a pastime for many of the girls.  
One day, Shiori Minato is asked out by an older girl  
she doesn't know--Mikoto Kurahashi.  
Shiori: "She's confessing to me... But why does she look so angry?"  
Still, she says yes, thinking of it as an opportunity  
to build something between them.  
One day, popular student Mikoto Kurahashi receives a blackmail letter,  
threatening to harm her sister, Yumi Kurahashi,  
unless she asks out a first-year student named Shiori Minato.  
At first, Mikoto thinks it's a prank--until Yumi gets hurt.  
So, she asks Shiori out in order to protect her sister.  
Mikoto: "Was so she desperate to date me that she'd resort to blackmail?"  
Mikoto starts dating Shiori believing her to be the blackmailer.  
At the same time, Shiori struggles to get Mikoto to engage with her.  
It's June in Kamakura, and the hydrangeas are blooming.  
Two girls are brought together,  
their relationship manipulated by blackmail.  
And so begins their bittersweet story...
**【SETTING】**
-------------
*   **Kikyou Academy**
A private girls' academy that educates students from elementary school through to university.  
The campus is situated atop a hill about fifteen minutes from Kamakura Station.  
The academy has strict rules its students must abide by,  
and cell phones are forbidden on school grounds.  
Consequently, letters are still used as a form of communication,  
and the girls use their shoe boxes in the entrance hall as letter boxes.  
Students who attend the school from elementary age through to university  
are expected to leave as perfect examples of well-educated young ladies.  
*   **Kamakura**
An ancient city steeped in history, popular today as a tourist spot.  
Famed for its hydrangeas, June sees the city streets awash in blue and purple flowers.  
Close to the sea, the Enoshima Electric Railway line running from Kamakura to Fujisawa  
offers stunning views of the ocean.
**【CHARACTERS】**
----------------
**【CREDITS】**
-------------
Art: sheepD  
Planning & Scenario Writing: Mikuriya Mikuri  
Backgrounds: Amakani, Chi-sa  
Music: etonenote  
Movie: NIRAI-KANAI STUDIO  
Design: cao.  
Production: Lily Spinel  
Sales: Hublots

Release date: Jun 29, 2021

Categories: Visual Novel, Yuri, Kinetic Novel, Dating Simulation, Linear Progression, NPC Relationships & Romance, Character-driven Narrative


- Hardware Profile: No data
Feature extractions:
- Community Price:
  - Community fair range: $10.00 - $14.99
  - Reasoning: Multiple reviews indicate that the current price of $16.99 is too high, with some suggesting a discount is necessary for a fair purchase. A few positive reviews acknowledge the game's quality and length, justifying a moderate price. Balancing these sentiments, the community appears to consider a fair base-game price range in the lower double digits, below the full retail price.
- Playtime Metrics:
  - Game completion: 8.0h
  - Story completion: 8.0h
  - Session length: N/A
  - Endgame: N/A
  - Reasoning: Multiple quantified playtime claims from different reviewers converge on a total playtime of roughly 4–12 hours, with most clustering near 4–10 hours for a full run. The 12-hour claim is an outlier but still within range. Estimates for story completion are implicit in the full-playthrough times since the game is linear with no choices; session length appears variable but no direct support for session-only or separate endgame hours exists.
- Time-to-fun:
  - Summary: The game offers a sweet hook and an emotionally rewarding conclusion, but a slow, angst-filled middle with repetitive scenes and a tedious subplot creates significant friction; enjoyment depends heavily on tolerance for measured pacing.
  - Stance: Mixed
  - Anchor: Rewarding sweetness after the angst-ridden middle
  - Time to anchor: N/A
  - Friction: slow pacing with repeated POV scenes; boring blackmail subplot; backtracking that pads playtime; some characters lack personality; initial boredom for some players
  - Unlock drivers: immediate sweet hook for some; cute art and voice acting; emotional healing narrative; character-driven love story payoff; sequel hook for long-term interest
  - Conditions: tolerance for measured pacing; appreciation of character-driven, emotional healing stories; enjoyment of yuri romance; preference for high production values; ability to overlook repeated POV scenes
- Player Archetypes:
  - Yuri Enthusiast (buy)
    - Motivation: Sweet romance and fulfilling yuri relationship
    - Playstyle: Reads for emotional payoff, overlooks minor flaws
    - Experience: familiar
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: yuri fan; romance lover
    - Reference games: N/A
  - Critical Genre Veteran (sale)
    - Motivation: In-depth storytelling and narrative innovation
    - Playstyle: Analytical, compares to other works
    - Experience: veteran
    - Purchase stance: sale
    - Labels: experienced VN reader; genre critic
    - Reference games: N/A
  - Japanese Language Learner (buy)
    - Motivation: Language acquisition through simple narrative
    - Playstyle: Reads in target language, values clarity and simplicity
    - Experience: newcomer
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: Japanese learner; VN beginner
    - Reference games: N/A
  - Casual Romance Seeker (buy)
    - Motivation: Heartwarming, low-commitment romantic story
    - Playstyle: Leisurely, values character introspection
    - Experience: familiar
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: romance fan; casual reader
    - Reference games: N/A


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:
- Excellent music and art (weight 0.57): The music, art, and visuals are excellent, with good BGM, beautiful art that matches the story, and an appealing UI.
- Sweet and emotional story (weight 0.41): The story is consistently sweet, heartwarming, and emotionally engaging, meeting expectations and providing a satisfying experience.
- Wholesome yuri romance (weight 0.38): The relationship is described as a beautiful, refined, and wholesome yuri romance with less drama and more romance, executed well.
- Great voice acting (weight 0.35): Voice acting is consistently praised as great, cute, or impeccable, enhancing the overall experience.
- Top-tier yuri experience (weight 0.34): The game is considered a well-done, pure yuri VN without cheating, often rated better than other yuri works.
- Decent game length (weight 0.13): The game is described as having a decent length of around 8-10 hours.

Common complaints:
- Abrupt and unresolved ending (weight 0.97): The story ends abruptly with a cliffhanger, leaving several plot threads—especially the blackmail letter mystery—unresolved. Players express frustration that a sequel is not yet available.
- Repetitive dual perspective narrative (weight 0.76): The story retells the same scenes from two perspectives with high repetition, making the narrative sluggish and boring. This is frequently criticized across many reviews and clusters.
- Poor character development (weight 0.6): Characters, especially Kaikin and Shiori, are described as plain, stereotypical, or unlikable. Their relationship feels forced and lacks emotional depth or meaningful growth.
- Short playtime for price (weight 0.5): The game is considered very short (around 6 hours) relative to its price of $16.99, leading to poor perceived value. Multiple reviews mention this as a major drawback.
- Unlikable protagonist Kaikin (weight 0.43): Kaikin is portrayed as selfish, misogynistic, and emotionally manipulative, taking advantage of Shiori. Her personality makes the romance unappealing.
- Bland and predictable story (weight 0.37): The plot is described as simple, boring, and lacking dramatic conflict or twists. The mystery is obvious from the start, making the story unengaging.
- Underutilized blackmail premise (weight 0.3): The initial blackmail setup is wasted as a plot device, with little impact on the relationship or story. The mystery remains unresolved, making the plot feel pointless.
- Sequel dependency frustrates (weight 0.3): The game ends on a cliffhanger with no sequel in sight, making players feel they paid for an incomplete story. This is described as a scam-like practice.
- Excessive save slots and filler (weight 0.25): The 1200 save slots are overkill for a linear VN, and repetitive dialogue artificially inflates reading time without adding value.
- Unrealistic setting and rules (weight 0.24): The school's no-phone, only-letters rule feels anachronistic and unrealistic for a 2021 setting. This breaks immersion and is a logical plot hole.
- Misogynistic and offensive content (weight 0.24): The protagonist and other characters express misogynistic, sexist remarks that make the story uncomfortable and frustrating to read.
- UI and graphics settings issues (weight 0.23): The UI is ugly, and there are no graphics settings for resolution or frame rate. Low resolution on full screen and poor side-face art add to visual dissatisfaction.
- Technical issues on Steam Deck (weight 0.21): The game has bugs on Steam Deck, including white screens and freezing, forcing players to stream. This technical failure undermines the experience.
- Shiori is overly submissive (weight 0.2): Shiori is depicted as a pathetic pushover who lacks agency, which irritates reviewers. Her passive nature weakens the romantic dynamic.
- No gameplay or choices (weight 0.18): The visual novel has no branches or gameplay, making it feel like a short linear read with no replay value. This limits engagement for players seeking interactivity.
- Underdeveloped side characters (weight 0.18): Side characters like the president, friend, and younger sister have minimal screen time and little impact on the story, leaving the world feeling empty.
- Ending animation bugs (weight 0.17): The ending animation freezes, and there is a bug where the game shows a white screen. These technical glitches mar the conclusion.

Gameplay feedback:
- Linear no-choice visual novel (weight 0.72): This is a kinetic novel without player choices or branching paths. The story is linear and movie-like, with a dual-perspective narrative that retells scenes from both viewpoints.
- Dual perspective narrative structure (weight 0.41): The game uses a dual-perspective narrative where the same events are shown from both protagonists' viewpoints. This structure may lead to some repetition but aims to depict character changes.
- Bilingual subtitles for learning (weight 0.31): The game features bilingual subtitles and language-switching functionality, making it useful as a language learning tool. Localization is supported.
- Classical all-girls school setting (weight 0.3): The story takes place in an all-girls school with a classical noble atmosphere. Communication relies on old-fashioned letter writing, emphasizing letter culture.
- Multiple endings with replay value (weight 0.24): The game has occasional narrative choices leading to multiple endings, providing replay value. However, it is described as single route by some.
- Short 7-hour playtime (weight 0.2): Playtime is estimated between 3 to 9 hours, with most reviewers citing around 7 hours. This is a short visual novel experience.
- Rule-breaking and blackmail subplot (weight 0.14): A subplot involves bending school rules to buy snacks, and a blackmail plot adds drama to the otherwise wholesome story.
- Fully voiced characters (weight 0.14): The game is fully voiced, adding to the immersive experience.
- Wholesome yuri romance (weight 0.09): The romance is yuri (girls' love) themed, with wholesome content and no unpleasant surprises.
- No landmines wholesome story (weight 0.08): The story is described as having no landmines, meaning it is consistently wholesome without dark or upsetting twists.
- Large save system (weight 0.08): The game includes a large save system with 100 pages of 12 save slots each, plus a separate voice save feature.
- Sequel hinted at end (weight 0.08): The ending hints at a possible sequel, suggesting the story may continue.
- Angst with sweet resolution (weight 0.08): The narrative includes angst but resolves with a sweet conclusion.
- Animated opening movie (weight 0.08): The game features an animated opening sequence.
- No major plot twists (weight 0.08): There are no major plot twists, and the ending is stable and predictable.
- Daily life focused story (weight 0.08): The story focuses on daily life events rather than dramatic plot developments.

Performance notes:
- Steam Deck white screen bug (weight 0.22): Players report a white screen and freezing issue on Steam Deck, with a known workaround involving the PROTON_NO_ESYNC=1 setting. This bug is critical as it prevents gameplay on the device.
- Ending animation freeze issue (weight 0.09): The game's ending animation freezes, preventing players from completing the game. This is a significant bug that affects the final experience.
- Good optimization reported (weight 0.08): Some players report good optimization, indicating the game runs well on capable hardware. This positive feedback contrasts with the Steam Deck issues.

Recommendations:
- Highly recommended buy (weight 0.43): Multiple reviews strongly recommend the game, calling it a worthwhile purchase with high ratings and positive experiences.
- Only buy on sale (weight 0.32): Several reviews advise against buying the game at full price, suggesting it is only worth purchasing during a sale or for basic enjoyment.
- Yuri fans will love it (weight 0.26): Several reviews target fans of the yuri genre, stating that yuri lovers will not regret buying the game.
- Looking forward to sequel (weight 0.2): Multiple reviews express anticipation for a sequel and note that the game can only be fully evaluated after the second part releases.
- Good for Japanese learners (weight 0.14): Two reviews specifically recommend the game as excellent reading material for Japanese learners, highlighting its educational value.
- Not recommended overall (weight 0.14): Some reviews directly state the game is not recommended, advising against purchase.
- Dual subtitles praised (weight 0.14): Two reviews recommend the dual subtitles feature and suggest it should be added industry-wide, praising its accessibility.
- Positive recommendation (weight 0.14): Two reviews express a positive recommendation, hoping to help others decide to buy the game.
- For story-focused fans (weight 0.08): One review recommends the game for fans of character-driven visual novels and story-focused games, indicating its narrative strength.
- Worth the price (weight 0.08): A single review states the game is worth the price of entry, indicating good value for money.
- Only for casual play (weight 0.08): One review suggests the game is only suitable for casual play without deep thinking, limiting its appeal.
- Better than similar games (weight 0.08): A single review recommends the game over similar titles with worse execution, implying it is a better choice in its genre.
- Avoid if dislike ambiguous endings (weight 0.08): One review warns that the game is not recommended for those who dislike ambiguous endings, which may be a dealbreaker for some players.
- Steam Deck caution (weight 0.08): A single review advises Steam Deck players to be cautious and recommends playing on Windows instead, indicating potential compatibility issues.
- Buy OST with game (weight 0.08): One review suggests buying the OST along with the game if interested in the story, highlighting the music as a valuable addition.
- Contains misogynistic remarks (weight 0.08): One review warns that the game is only worth buying if you can accept misogynistic remarks, indicating a potentially offensive tone.
- Easy recommend if time (weight 0.08): A single review recommends the game easily if the player has time to read, emphasizing the need for time investment.
- Wants more content (weight 0.08): One review expresses a desire for more content, suggesting the game may feel short or incomplete.
- Read Kindred Spirits instead (weight 0.08): A single review suggests reading a different game, Kindred Spirits, instead, implying a superior alternative.
- Play in one sitting (weight 0.08): One review recommends playing the game in one uninterrupted night, suggesting it is a short, immersive experience.

Other player notes:
No miscpoints

Emotions:
- Frustration (weight 0.17): Players are frustrated by the characters facing the player instead of each other during a kiss scene, unrealistic school rules, and repetitive dialogue. The unresolved plot points and lack of graphics settings, along with technical issues like a white screen on Steam Deck, compound the frustration.
- Disappointment (weight 0.13): The disappointment stems from a mediocre script, reused CG art, and shallow writing with fast relationship development. The abrupt ending, unresolved story, and low-quality graphics, including poor side-view drawings, leave players unsatisfied.
- Satisfaction (weight 0.09): Satisfaction arises from the final sugar rush of sweetness despite many flaws, with a sweet romantic story and enough text volume. The large save system and the later sugar-spreading parts contribute to a fulfilling experience.
- Annoyance (weight 0.08): Annoyance is caused by CG reuse and bad side profiles, along with the little sister's bad personality. The unfinished story and repetitive dual perspective narration further irritate players.
- Excitement (weight 0.06): Excitement comes from the good progression from cold misunderstanding to romance, with the sweetness of the love story. The immediate hook from the story and the dual subtitles feature also build anticipation.
- Enjoyment (weight 0.05): Enjoyment is driven by the heartwarming story and strong character development. The story structure, which alternates between sweets, angst, and sweetness, keeps players engaged.
- Happiness (weight 0.05): Happiness results from the honest resolution and cute voice acting, along with well-developed protagonists and a cute couple. The yuri work is described as adorable and satisfying.
- Delight (weight 0.05): Delight is sparked by the cute inner thoughts of the female high school student and the chemistry between characters. The sweet story and the face-changing character Kaichin-senpai also charm players.
- Anticipation (weight 0.05): Anticipation is felt as players look forward to the continuation of the story and the upcoming part 2. The unresolved plot hooks create a strong desire for more content.
- Anger (weight 0.03): Anger stems from poor value for money, as players feel the price does not match the content. The protagonist's humbleness and one-sided sacrifice also frustrate players.
- Amusement (weight 0.03): Amusement is generated by the ending surprise and the character's contradictory statements. These elements add a touch of humor and unpredictability to the narrative.
- Suspicion (weight 0.02): Suspicion arises from the possible male gaze in the writing, which some players find off-putting. This concern suggests a lack of authentic perspective in the narrative.
- Bemusement (weight 0.02): Bemusement comes from the excessive number of save slots provided for a linear visual novel. Players find this feature unnecessary and puzzling.
- Love (weight 0.02): Love is expressed for the world and story, which resonate deeply with players. The emotional connection to the setting and narrative fosters a strong attachment.
- Longing (weight 0.02): Longing is driven by a desire for more content, as players want to continue experiencing the story. The limited length leaves them craving further development.
- Moved (weight 0.02): Players are moved by the bittersweet love story, which evokes strong emotional responses. The poignant narrative touches on themes of love and loss.
- Forgiveness (weight 0.02): Forgiveness is granted due to the sweetness of the story, despite unclear transitions and flaws. The overall positive experience outweighs the narrative issues.
- Interest (weight 0.02): Interest is piqued by the dual perspective storytelling, which adds depth and variety. This narrative technique keeps players curious about different viewpoints.
- Irritation (weight 0.02): Irritation is caused by the ending animation freezing, which disrupts the visual experience. This technical glitch frustrates players during a key moment.
- Emotional resonance (weight 0.02): Emotional resonance is achieved through the beach confession scene, which is both intimate and impactful. This moment deeply connects with players on an emotional level.}