Kuukiyomi: Consider It! Online

Kuukiyomi: Consider It! Online is a comedic puzzle game where players engage in a series of rapid-fire minigames that test their ability to ‘read the air’—interpreting social cues and reacting appropriately in humorous, everyday situations. Developed by G-mode, the game features a contemporary setting and encourages multiplayer interaction, allowing players to rate each other’s responses, blending quick reflexes with situational awareness in a lighthearted, competitive environment.

Kuukiyomi: Consider It! Online: A Deep Dive into the Art of Social Awkwardness

Introduction

In the vast landscape of party games, few titles dare to explore the nuances of social etiquette with the same audacity as Kuukiyomi: Consider It! Online. Developed by G-MODE, this game is a unique blend of humor, cultural commentary, and interactive gameplay that challenges players to “read the air” — a Japanese concept of understanding unspoken social cues. This review will delve into the game’s development history, narrative depth, gameplay mechanics, and its place in the broader context of video game history.

Development History & Context

The Kuukiyomi series, which translates to “reading the air,” has been a staple in Japanese gaming culture since its inception in 2008. Originally released on mobile platforms, the series has evolved through various iterations, each refining the core concept of navigating social situations through quick, often humorous, decision-making.

Kuukiyomi: Consider It! Online represents a significant leap for the series, marking its first foray into online multiplayer. Released on June 19, 2022, the game was developed using the Unity engine, allowing for cross-platform compatibility and a more polished experience. The decision to go online was a bold move, aiming to bring the series’ unique brand of social commentary to a global audience.

Narrative & Thematic Deep Dive

At its core, Kuukiyomi: Consider It! Online is a game about social awareness. The narrative is not linear but rather a collection of vignettes that challenge players to make quick decisions based on cultural norms and social etiquette. The game’s humor is deeply rooted in Japanese culture, often playing on the concept of “kuukiyomi” — the ability to read the room and act accordingly.

The game’s scenarios range from mundane daily encounters to bizarre, surreal situations. For example, players might find themselves deciding how to react when a coworker offers them a gift, or navigating the awkwardness of a first date with an anthropomorphic cow. These scenarios are designed to be both humorous and thought-provoking, encouraging players to consider the social implications of their actions.

Gameplay Mechanics & Systems

Kuukiyomi: Consider It! Online is a party game that supports up to seven players. Each session consists of three rounds, where players are presented with a scenario and must make a decision based on the given context. The gameplay is simple yet engaging, with a focus on quick reactions and situational awareness.

The game’s mechanics are straightforward: players control a red object on the screen, moving it to interact with the environment or other characters. The goal is to choose the most appropriate action based on the scenario, with the game rating the player’s response on a scale from “Considerably” to “Truly Mildly.”

One of the game’s most innovative features is its voting system. After each round, players watch replays of their peers’ actions and vote for the best response. This adds a layer of social interaction and competition, as players strive to be the most considerate and earn the most votes.

World-Building, Art & Sound

The game’s visual style is minimalist yet expressive, with a focus on clear indicators and reaction feedback. The art direction is simple but effective, using a limited color palette to highlight important elements and guide player actions. The sound design is equally minimalist, with a focus on clear audio cues and subtle background music that enhances the game’s humorous tone.

The game’s world-building is rooted in its scenarios, which are designed to be both relatable and absurd. The scenarios are often set in everyday locations, such as offices, restaurants, and public transport, but the situations are anything but ordinary. This juxtaposition creates a unique atmosphere that is both familiar and surreal.

Reception & Legacy

Kuukiyomi: Consider It! Online has received mixed reviews from critics and players alike. While some praise the game’s unique concept and humorous scenarios, others criticize its lack of depth and repetitive gameplay. The game’s reception on Steam is mixed, with a player score of 49/100 based on 336 reviews.

Despite its mixed reception, Kuukiyomi: Consider It! Online has carved out a niche for itself in the party game genre. Its focus on social awareness and cultural commentary sets it apart from other titles, offering a unique experience that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.

Conclusion

Kuukiyomi: Consider It! Online is a bold and innovative take on the party game genre. Its focus on social awareness and cultural commentary makes it a standout title, offering a unique blend of humor and thought-provoking scenarios. While the game may not be for everyone, its unique concept and engaging gameplay make it a worthwhile experience for those interested in exploring the nuances of social etiquette.

In the grand tapestry of video game history, Kuukiyomi: Consider It! Online stands as a testament to the power of humor and cultural commentary in gaming. It is a game that challenges players to think critically about their actions and the social implications of their decisions, all while providing a fun and engaging experience. For those willing to embrace its quirks and peculiarities, Kuukiyomi: Consider It! Online offers a unique and memorable journey into the art of social awkwardness.