NUKITASHI 2 Review
Let's start with some context, I read the first NUKITASHI some time ago, and according to my unfiltered notes (had to scavenge them) after reading, it was "good, interesting, and not a waste of time". The thing is, I don't remember much about it, other than being funny/silly, and commentary on the whole "Japan's birth rate crisis", plus cultural views on sex, that may have led to it. This is all to say, that the first NUKITASHI is one of those VN's which works as entertainment, sure, but it's unremarkable, or left no lasting effect on me.
Even with this in mind, I will still mention the original. Unfortunately, my memory won't allow me to draw accurate parallels, so I would suggest that you read both titles, with as little downtime between them, as you possibly can, or you may end up like me. Switching gears, I read some opinions on this V.N, and I'm not writing this "blind" (wouldn't that be something?). The general consensus seems to be: "This sequel was better than the original, and improved on some weaknesses". That was good enough for me, and here we are, trying to ascertain if those impressions match my own.
(The review assumes you have read NUKITASHI, less relevant parameters will be overlooked on account of "more of the same")
"Intro/Characters/A bit of Story"
NUKITASHI 2 can be divided between: 3 main heroine routes with a new story (sort of, more like an excuse to mix things up), one common route where said heroines also star, one sister route where you just roll with it, and 4 epilogues to the main heroines of the original NUKITASHI. If you are in the same situation as me, and feel "fuzzy" on the details of the prequel, NUKITASHI 2 features a "slow paced recap of the most important events and characters of the previous title (only applies to "brand new material", the sister and epilogues get no summary). VN sequels sometimes act "like your specs are over 140" when dumping info on you, but thankfully NUKITASHI 2, had the good sense of avoiding this.
I haven't investigated the "making of" NUKITASHI 2 (all that trivia eats "brain space" needed for other things), but it seems to me like "they" received a solid amount of feedback after the first title, and worked to address complaints while "shoring up" character weakness (mainly). They also tried to improve on parameters that were already at a solid to good level, like the humor. One encompassing example of both is the self-referential comedy (previous title), to particular character traits (or lack thereof), convoluted plot points, or general inconsistencies, Meaning they at least acknowledge where they failed before.
Worldbuilding was subjected to a fair amount of "realism" (incorporation of real life concerns, would be more precise) and they thought about it more carefully, tried to make things a bit more feasible. This was accomplished through "funny sequences", but every now and then they get a bit serious, and some social commentary ensues (generally it's a Japanese reality that gets depicted, but some all-encompassing concepts like, self-determination, minorities, and discrimination also make the cut). In fewer words, the previous state of Seiran island came under scrutiny, with this second iteration of NUKITASHI.
(Regarding the themes above, and If you were to ask me, I'd classify ALL of what was presented as platitudes, political correctness, and searching for morally comfortable terrain. The base problem starts with humans not liking/fearing difference inherently, along with the mystifying promotion of individuality, within creatures that die by the hundreds of thousands everyday. Points for trying, but I found the lack of insight more disturbing than commendable, and we (humans) won't be "playing nice" with each other, until the "foundations of it all" are thoroughly revolved. They gave it little thought, I'm repaying in equal measure - End intermission.)
Within the same mindset, and crucial to my opinion of NUKITASHI 2: The heroines received an "upgrade". Romance was a serious problem of the original (only one of the heroines caught my attention back then, and it was just the archetype). This time around, they deliver on traits (flaws/virtues), non-standard characterization (humor builds up characters), number of interactions, and their diversity (cast support is great on all routes, except Asa's) and likability (more on the section before the score, about likability). Props on this front, it gives the illusion of "night and day" compared to its precursor, 2D girls should feel "precious".
Regarding the new characters introduced, I'd say all of them are good additions to the cast. How needed, or how much value they are bringing "to the table" is relative but: There's the "nerdy" male friend; The girl, with "wingwoman" vibes, who needs a route (Actually she has a route in the Japanese version, DLC apparently); The "unlikable but not really villainous girl", who is a win on difference factor alone, and therefore appealing; And the character that likely exists to address the aforementioned feedback (most likely, someone complained about genders/boundaries, and their depiction in the first NUKITASHI, and this character was the answer).
Some assorted info: Routes feature some numerical continuation (meaning you should read the main heroines first); Some loose ends from NUKITASHI were solved. Action sequences remain a strong point; The focus on character quirks to deliver comedy, has no word on the dictionary that can faithfully represent it; The epilogues and sister routes are too short; Group dynamics are nearing top tier; And the meta references and "eroge 101", are useful reference material.
Finally, a quick word to the protagonist, who also received similar improvements to the heroines, and his place in the world seems to be well defined now, a product of the changes his personality underwent in NUKITASHI. Perhaps one of the priorities of the writer(s), was establishing that "yesterday's enemy, may be your friend today", which in VN terms translates to: "Don't dismiss heroine X, she may surprise you". In essence the protagonist's P.O.V, allows to quantify his character development, but it's also used to cement a stronger connection between protagonist and heroines (execution of such things is a different matter).
"Humor"
There are funny VN's, and then there's NUKITASHI 2. Humor is close to everything here. Want to get some passive characterization done? Funny sequence. Expand the "wacky" setting? Funny sequence. Establish deeper connections, or similarities/differences between characters? Funny sequence. Make the reader laugh? Well, that one is expected. The point is, that a number of comical aspects serve a purpose, that can be easily washed away in the "tidal wave" of wordplay, innuendo, double entendre, puns, and endless originality, that the theme sex seems to bring forth. This means that you should pay attention whenever possible, but truth to be told, I wouldn't blame anyone, for just dismissing this as hollow material. The ratio is heavily biased towards that connotation.
(This is not exactly paramount, but the "spriteless" (background) characters, chiming in, and delivering the next humorous quip, is something that I have appreciated since "Fureraba", and here it reaches its highest point - more VN's should use background characters with a specific purpose and name, other than NPC 1 on Village X.)
Now let's talk about comedy in it's normal capacity, and NUKITASHI 2 is a "feast" for anyone who just wants to laugh. This VN covers just about all the styles you can think of: (personally more dark humor was in order, but not everyone likes that) Slapstick (physical comedy); A "mountain" of observational comedy (making fun of personal, everyday things); Sarcasm and meta jokes. "Non-sequitur" (response doesn't follow or ignores previous line); One-liners "Get pregnant!"; Similes (you can guess the subject) and more. If we decide to get specific there's parody, absurdity, clumsiness, infantilism, misunderstandings, insult, and an impressive "et cetera". Whatever opinion you have of NUKITASHI 2, this is an awesome display of knowledge on the subject of comedy.
(It's also way too much of the same thing, over, and over again)
"Technicals"
In order to save some time, mentally add the following in all sub-categories within:
- NUKITASHI 2 uses a high amount of "recycled" assets from its predecessor.
This will be reflected in the final score, and calling it NUKITASHI 1.5 might sound spiteful, but it's also a valid summary, where its most mechanical aspects are concerned.
Starting with visuals, NUKITASHI 2 is very "action oriented", the sprites feel constantly in motion, and act in accordance with what's displayed in the text box (visual-to-writing coherence). There's enough CG's when considering reading time (a small quantity, is of the super deformed kind). Backgrounds can become monotonous quickly, effects help in said action sequences, and this VN has more camera shots than some of the "competition". The art style itself is not to my taste, wasn't a fan before, nothing's changed on that front. Not interested in discussing art either. It's a simple relative, subjective measure, taking into account all of my existing references.
Following with sound, which was a very pleasant surprise, and (if you exclude humor) the strongest positive in NUKITASHI 2. There's some outstanding V.A here, whether we are bringing up quality or quantity. Asa has the pacing/diction, Touka has the range/versatility, Susuko (new character) has enunciation. Rei can "modulate" her voice to a point where you might think she is actually unstable in real life. These people received great instruction, probably had a lot of fun, and gave it everything they had. If... and it's a big if... I'm allowed to point something out, then delivering comedy, and a quick laugh in a V.N, is easier than moving drama and a heartfelt tear.
The OST is eclectic, but not amazing. There's an acceptable number of tracks, and they are comprised of rock, jazz, piano, drums (percussion), samba, accordion, and more. An overall "urban contemporary style", I would call it. The protagonist remains silent, which is a shame, but the "devs" have an explanation apparently: YOU are supposed to read the lines of the protagonist (out loud) in an eroge... Not interested, self-insertion doesn't click with me, more voiced protagonists please. There's also a good amount of sound effects, and they are diverse, adequate, well-timed...
Let's end "technicals" with pacing/structure, and these only deserve a quick mention, because the VN is already properly divided (structured) at the start, and barely has any choices, but also due to the fact that once a route starts, it's a rollercoaster of either comedy, action, romance, S.o.L, or all put together (NUKITASHI 2 is always on the move).
"H-Scenes"
Nothing to report outside some, gender novelty? ("It's all futa to me". I don't like complicated when it comes to porn), "bondage" scenes, and the incest hints from NUKITASHI coming to fruition (You can immediately see Asa's route, when clicking "new game"). It's a "by the numbers" experience, through and through. Concept, adult purpose, build-up, duration, quantity, placement in the story... The entire thing would be forgettable, were it not for some humor and character quirks being reinforced, in some instances. You don't read this for the H-scenes, they just do their job.
"The Entire Truth Behind the Score"
NUKITASHI 2 is more of the same. There's no need for some "big words" and long exposition on this front. If this was a videogame, it would be a very lazy sequel. If it was season 2 of the anime, you would drop it. The real problem however, is that the the people behind the title, had the gall of demonstrating self-awareness (mostly recognizing worn-out eroge patterns in the prequel, and pointing out where they went wrong), but the actual improvements performed are of little consequence, outside some of the exceptions I already mentioned, or they simply fail to make things better. If I'm not mincing words, it's hypocritical.
What does this mean exactly: "Crutches".
Tragic backstories galore(Ikuko's route is the real tragedy, not her childhood); Undue self-loathing; Imprudent use of unconditional love; Instant infatuation by the protagonist (forced romance); Inner conflicts solved overnight; Archetype escapes that go nowhere, they exist to shut people up; Jumps between routes that feel like patchwork; And compulsory drama, that comes out of nowhere at fixed intervals (some emotional sequences are downright terrible). NUKITASHI 2 tried, but it's attempts feels underwhelming and inorganic. It's the perfect demonstration of:
"Those who can, do; those who can't, teach".
NUKITASHI 2 did very little to ACTUALLY improve over the original (talked a lot about it though), and ended up delivering in the theoretical department, while still remaining incapable of putting its own teachings into a material realization. It's still funny and engaging, no doubt, but it's not enough for a sequel.
"Score"
If you stuck with me until the end congratulations. NUKITASHI 2 is a 7/10, a good VN, that is quite literally more of the same. The score can be increased if you really liked the original, or if your base expectations were low. I regard NUKITASHI 2 as a copy of the original, that is more concerned with talking and showing-off, than getting to work and produce something superior to its predecessor. Recommended if you are looking for a whole lot of comedy, and absolutely adored the original. It's disappointing otherwise.
(This review is also on VNDB, same author, different usernames, no rights infringed, blah, blah blah.... no one copies VN reviews, they simply don't read the VN, and write the same thing over and over again)
Let's start with some context, I read the first NUKITASHI some time ago, and according to my unfiltered notes (had to scavenge them) after reading, it was "good, interesting, and not a waste of time". The thing is, I don't remember much about it, other than being funny/silly, and commentary on the whole "Japan's birth rate crisis", plus cultural views on sex, that may have led to it. This is all to say, that the first NUKITASHI is one of those VN's which works as entertainment, sure, but it's unremarkable, or left no lasting effect on me.
Even with this in mind, I will still mention the original. Unfortunately, my memory won't allow me to draw accurate parallels, so I would suggest that you read both titles, with as little downtime between them, as you possibly can, or you may end up like me. Switching gears, I read some opinions on this V.N, and I'm not writing this "blind" (wouldn't that be something?). The general consensus seems to be: "This sequel was better than the original, and improved on some weaknesses". That was good enough for me, and here we are, trying to ascertain if those impressions match my own.
(The review assumes you have read NUKITASHI, less relevant parameters will be overlooked on account of "more of the same")
"Intro/Characters/A bit of Story"
NUKITASHI 2 can be divided between: 3 main heroine routes with a new story (sort of, more like an excuse to mix things up), one common route where said heroines also star, one sister route where you just roll with it, and 4 epilogues to the main heroines of the original NUKITASHI. If you are in the same situation as me, and feel "fuzzy" on the details of the prequel, NUKITASHI 2 features a "slow paced recap of the most important events and characters of the previous title (only applies to "brand new material", the sister and epilogues get no summary). VN sequels sometimes act "like your specs are over 140" when dumping info on you, but thankfully NUKITASHI 2, had the good sense of avoiding this.
I haven't investigated the "making of" NUKITASHI 2 (all that trivia eats "brain space" needed for other things), but it seems to me like "they" received a solid amount of feedback after the first title, and worked to address complaints while "shoring up" character weakness (mainly). They also tried to improve on parameters that were already at a solid to good level, like the humor. One encompassing example of both is the self-referential comedy (previous title), to particular character traits (or lack thereof), convoluted plot points, or general inconsistencies, Meaning they at least acknowledge where they failed before.
Worldbuilding was subjected to a fair amount of "realism" (incorporation of real life concerns, would be more precise) and they thought about it more carefully, tried to make things a bit more feasible. This was accomplished through "funny sequences", but every now and then they get a bit serious, and some social commentary ensues (generally it's a Japanese reality that gets depicted, but some all-encompassing concepts like, self-determination, minorities, and discrimination also make the cut). In fewer words, the previous state of Seiran island came under scrutiny, with this second iteration of NUKITASHI.
(Regarding the themes above, and If you were to ask me, I'd classify ALL of what was presented as platitudes, political correctness, and searching for morally comfortable terrain. The base problem starts with humans not liking/fearing difference inherently, along with the mystifying promotion of individuality, within creatures that die by the hundreds of thousands everyday. Points for trying, but I found the lack of insight more disturbing than commendable, and we (humans) won't be "playing nice" with each other, until the "foundations of it all" are thoroughly revolved. They gave it little thought, I'm repaying in equal measure - End intermission.)
Within the same mindset, and crucial to my opinion of NUKITASHI 2: The heroines received an "upgrade". Romance was a serious problem of the original (only one of the heroines caught my attention back then, and it was just the archetype). This time around, they deliver on traits (flaws/virtues), non-standard characterization (humor builds up characters), number of interactions, and their diversity (cast support is great on all routes, except Asa's) and likability (more on the section before the score, about likability). Props on this front, it gives the illusion of "night and day" compared to its precursor, 2D girls should feel "precious".
Regarding the new characters introduced, I'd say all of them are good additions to the cast. How needed, or how much value they are bringing "to the table" is relative but: There's the "nerdy" male friend; The girl, with "wingwoman" vibes, who needs a route (Actually she has a route in the Japanese version, DLC apparently); The "unlikable but not really villainous girl", who is a win on difference factor alone, and therefore appealing; And the character that likely exists to address the aforementioned feedback (most likely, someone complained about genders/boundaries, and their depiction in the first NUKITASHI, and this character was the answer).
Some assorted info: Routes feature some numerical continuation (meaning you should read the main heroines first); Some loose ends from NUKITASHI were solved. Action sequences remain a strong point; The focus on character quirks to deliver comedy, has no word on the dictionary that can faithfully represent it; The epilogues and sister routes are too short; Group dynamics are nearing top tier; And the meta references and "eroge 101", are useful reference material.
Finally, a quick word to the protagonist, who also received similar improvements to the heroines, and his place in the world seems to be well defined now, a product of the changes his personality underwent in NUKITASHI. Perhaps one of the priorities of the writer(s), was establishing that "yesterday's enemy, may be your friend today", which in VN terms translates to: "Don't dismiss heroine X, she may surprise you". In essence the protagonist's P.O.V, allows to quantify his character development, but it's also used to cement a stronger connection between protagonist and heroines (execution of such things is a different matter).
"Humor"
There are funny VN's, and then there's NUKITASHI 2. Humor is close to everything here. Want to get some passive characterization done? Funny sequence. Expand the "wacky" setting? Funny sequence. Establish deeper connections, or similarities/differences between characters? Funny sequence. Make the reader laugh? Well, that one is expected. The point is, that a number of comical aspects serve a purpose, that can be easily washed away in the "tidal wave" of wordplay, innuendo, double entendre, puns, and endless originality, that the theme sex seems to bring forth. This means that you should pay attention whenever possible, but truth to be told, I wouldn't blame anyone, for just dismissing this as hollow material. The ratio is heavily biased towards that connotation.
(This is not exactly paramount, but the "spriteless" (background) characters, chiming in, and delivering the next humorous quip, is something that I have appreciated since "Fureraba", and here it reaches its highest point - more VN's should use background characters with a specific purpose and name, other than NPC 1 on Village X.)
Now let's talk about comedy in it's normal capacity, and NUKITASHI 2 is a "feast" for anyone who just wants to laugh. This VN covers just about all the styles you can think of: (personally more dark humor was in order, but not everyone likes that) Slapstick (physical comedy); A "mountain" of observational comedy (making fun of personal, everyday things); Sarcasm and meta jokes. "Non-sequitur" (response doesn't follow or ignores previous line); One-liners "Get pregnant!"; Similes (you can guess the subject) and more. If we decide to get specific there's parody, absurdity, clumsiness, infantilism, misunderstandings, insult, and an impressive "et cetera". Whatever opinion you have of NUKITASHI 2, this is an awesome display of knowledge on the subject of comedy.
(It's also way too much of the same thing, over, and over again)
"Technicals"
In order to save some time, mentally add the following in all sub-categories within:
- NUKITASHI 2 uses a high amount of "recycled" assets from its predecessor.
This will be reflected in the final score, and calling it NUKITASHI 1.5 might sound spiteful, but it's also a valid summary, where its most mechanical aspects are concerned.
Starting with visuals, NUKITASHI 2 is very "action oriented", the sprites feel constantly in motion, and act in accordance with what's displayed in the text box (visual-to-writing coherence). There's enough CG's when considering reading time (a small quantity, is of the super deformed kind). Backgrounds can become monotonous quickly, effects help in said action sequences, and this VN has more camera shots than some of the "competition". The art style itself is not to my taste, wasn't a fan before, nothing's changed on that front. Not interested in discussing art either. It's a simple relative, subjective measure, taking into account all of my existing references.
Following with sound, which was a very pleasant surprise, and (if you exclude humor) the strongest positive in NUKITASHI 2. There's some outstanding V.A here, whether we are bringing up quality or quantity. Asa has the pacing/diction, Touka has the range/versatility, Susuko (new character) has enunciation. Rei can "modulate" her voice to a point where you might think she is actually unstable in real life. These people received great instruction, probably had a lot of fun, and gave it everything they had. If... and it's a big if... I'm allowed to point something out, then delivering comedy, and a quick laugh in a V.N, is easier than moving drama and a heartfelt tear.
The OST is eclectic, but not amazing. There's an acceptable number of tracks, and they are comprised of rock, jazz, piano, drums (percussion), samba, accordion, and more. An overall "urban contemporary style", I would call it. The protagonist remains silent, which is a shame, but the "devs" have an explanation apparently: YOU are supposed to read the lines of the protagonist (out loud) in an eroge... Not interested, self-insertion doesn't click with me, more voiced protagonists please. There's also a good amount of sound effects, and they are diverse, adequate, well-timed...
Let's end "technicals" with pacing/structure, and these only deserve a quick mention, because the VN is already properly divided (structured) at the start, and barely has any choices, but also due to the fact that once a route starts, it's a rollercoaster of either comedy, action, romance, S.o.L, or all put together (NUKITASHI 2 is always on the move).
"H-Scenes"
Nothing to report outside some, gender novelty? ("It's all futa to me". I don't like complicated when it comes to porn), "bondage" scenes, and the incest hints from NUKITASHI coming to fruition (You can immediately see Asa's route, when clicking "new game"). It's a "by the numbers" experience, through and through. Concept, adult purpose, build-up, duration, quantity, placement in the story... The entire thing would be forgettable, were it not for some humor and character quirks being reinforced, in some instances. You don't read this for the H-scenes, they just do their job.
"The Entire Truth Behind the Score"
NUKITASHI 2 is more of the same. There's no need for some "big words" and long exposition on this front. If this was a videogame, it would be a very lazy sequel. If it was season 2 of the anime, you would drop it. The real problem however, is that the the people behind the title, had the gall of demonstrating self-awareness (mostly recognizing worn-out eroge patterns in the prequel, and pointing out where they went wrong), but the actual improvements performed are of little consequence, outside some of the exceptions I already mentioned, or they simply fail to make things better. If I'm not mincing words, it's hypocritical.
What does this mean exactly: "Crutches".
Tragic backstories galore(Ikuko's route is the real tragedy, not her childhood); Undue self-loathing; Imprudent use of unconditional love; Instant infatuation by the protagonist (forced romance); Inner conflicts solved overnight; Archetype escapes that go nowhere, they exist to shut people up; Jumps between routes that feel like patchwork; And compulsory drama, that comes out of nowhere at fixed intervals (some emotional sequences are downright terrible). NUKITASHI 2 tried, but it's attempts feels underwhelming and inorganic. It's the perfect demonstration of:
"Those who can, do; those who can't, teach".
NUKITASHI 2 did very little to ACTUALLY improve over the original (talked a lot about it though), and ended up delivering in the theoretical department, while still remaining incapable of putting its own teachings into a material realization. It's still funny and engaging, no doubt, but it's not enough for a sequel.
"Score"
If you stuck with me until the end congratulations. NUKITASHI 2 is a 7/10, a good VN, that is quite literally more of the same. The score can be increased if you really liked the original, or if your base expectations were low. I regard NUKITASHI 2 as a copy of the original, that is more concerned with talking and showing-off, than getting to work and produce something superior to its predecessor. Recommended if you are looking for a whole lot of comedy, and absolutely adored the original. It's disappointing otherwise.
(This review is also on VNDB, same author, different usernames, no rights infringed, blah, blah blah.... no one copies VN reviews, they simply don't read the VN, and write the same thing over and over again)