Review:
STEINS;GATE Linear Bounded Phenogram (Senkei Kousoku no Phenogram) is a visual novel developed by 5pb. It is a ‘sequel’ for theReview:
STEINS;GATE Linear Bounded Phenogram (Senkei Kousoku no Phenogram) is a visual novel developed by 5pb. It is a ‘sequel’ for the already existing visual novel of STEINS;GATE; it is a science adventure themed VN based In the year 2010. If you are seeking fast-oriented gameplay, then this visual novel may suit your needs; unlike the previous VN of STEINS;GATE, Linear Bounded Phenogram has a faster pace as it follows quick and short story arcs for different characters which are roughly about 4-6 hours each. (Personally, it took me roughly 45 hours to fully read the novel).
The menus and UI, additionally the font of the text is very simple and user friendly; with a simple click, saves can be accessed on a whim. Additionally, there haven’t been any glitches nor bugs which I have encountered during my time of playing it through (100 hours).
As for regard of the story, Linear Bounded Phenogram is dependent on the reader having read the previous instalment of STEINS;GATE as the story revolves around the events and characters of the previous game; thus, it requires the reader to have read the previous novel as characters and events won’t be introduced and explained in full detail.
The story is less complicated compared to the first game as it can be argued that the science aspects of the series were lessened and replaced rather by character development and plot points, but this isn’t a negative factor as the story excels in character development as readers are learn more of the character as we read from their perspective. Similar to the previous instalments of the STEINS;GATE series, a dense amount of Akihabara/Japan memes, references and internet culture is mixed within; fortunately, if readers do not understand said reference, they are explained in the in-game word glossary which explains them.
The visuals for the novels are done by the same artist and in my opinion, they are fairly impressive as they match the scene and aid the visualization of the story superbly. The sounds and new OST too are also impressive. The game includes a brand new OST with an additional which has been orchestrated superbly in which helps capture the right mood; the game also includes song tracks from previous titles also. The sounds effects in the game are put into great use as the sounds fit perfectly into the right moments.
It should be noted that with this being a Japanese visual novel, all the voice acting is in Japanese; however, the voice actors have done a great job on portraying the characters as their emotions as even English readers can understand their feelings.
Overall, Linear Bounded Phenogram is a great visual novel, but personally, it isn’t as in-depth as the first (that being STEINS;GATE), however it does a great job on character development and new story arcs. Definitely a good read if you are interested in the series as a whole.… Expand
