Bakumatsu Kourinden Oni

Following the hidden Shinsengumi through supernatural incidents and eventually overseas gives this adventure a broader atmosphere than its initial Japanese setting suggests. Expressive portraits, vertical dialogue and forceful boss music establish personality. Weapons grow through use and learn techniques, while plentiful inexpensive recovery items encourage powerful skills. Swapping stored companions also helps experimentation. Balance is less convincing: some equipment becomes irrelevant, and a dominant fixed-damage ability can eclipse other tactics. Progression carries substantial burdens, with costly ship upgrades, repeated naval encounters, disruptive flashbacks and recruitment dependent on obscure locations, timing or order. Later money-making opportunities alleviate some delay without making the whole journey brisk. Flashing text and unclear status figures add reading fatigue. Players invested in the world and patient exploration are more likely to appreciate it than those prioritizing smooth pacing and rigorous balance.

Who it is for: Players interested in supernatural Japanese adventure who tolerate patient resource and side-quest work

Play notes: Some recruits are missable or order-dependent; taking others' possessions affects morality, and the story is not consistently cheerful.