Z.A.T.O. // I Love the World and Everything In It

Huh. I just finished the game a moment ago. Should I have thought things through? Considered the subtle cues and how they tied into events not directly explained, using that framework to make sure I judged this game fairly? Probably. But I'm worried I'll lose the feelings of intrigue, sorrow, longing, and a fourth emotion that probably sounds pretentious. Which this game is not, mostly. I love slow deliberate starts. I like exploring the psychology of the characters, and feeling alongside them based on experiences I myself can relate to, rather than am told about. And I liked every character, yes all of them. Which this game, despite its short length compared to a "proper" visual novel, does well. Each stood out in different ways and complemented each other. (Though i wish the NPCs got proper names to differentiate, hearing classmate 1 be both a guy and a girl at different points was jarring.) Story progressed in a natural way, though I have mixed feelings about the ending, which kept a regular pace and allowed breathing room. Each moment was potent and purposeful, to the point that I wanted more. As the story came to the conclusion I expected around the midway point, I wanted more story. Desperate emotions against the inevitable. Which is admittedly a nitpick at best, and a complement to the story tightness at better. The artstyle fit the story very well. Emotions, even at the point where they were hollow due to plot reasons, were portrayed very viscerally, with Omori or Coffin of Andy and Leyley being easy comparisons. CGs were timed well, though the characters sometimes not having sprites was a bit jarring. Also Vadim's Pacman ear. But looking at the artbook and how much care Ferry had for every detail, these are also a nitpick at best. Soundtrack was timed well as story beats expected. It's all royalty free music except the intro and credits, so I can't say more than "done well". Lastly, I appreciate how unapologetic the setting is to its russian background. I had to look up tidbits related to location, historic event and even clothing and dessert. And I wouldn't have it any other way. With how translations of many games can tend to change aspects to make sense to the audience, I'm glad this story can't be separated from its Russian background. Also its free. Try for an hour if I haven't sold you, and return if you get bored.