Neptunia Game Maker R:Evolution

I’m going to be honest and say that I kind of expected more out of the title, which is unfair to the game on some level. I’m the person who always says that it’s not what a game is about but how it is about it, and in that context it’s not really fair to have negative things to say about the story being a bit of a shallow wisp full of fan service and game references. The problem is that in light of that weakness, you’d expect a strong game to back it up… and instead, what you have is a game that feels kinda archaic and making up for its weaknesses via volume. None of that makes the game bad. Indeed, I could find myself easily falling into a routine with the gameplay despite its generally bland elements. But it didn’t really stick to the ribs despite that. If you’re a fan of this franchise, I can understand why in the broad strokes, and I think this is going to prove to be an entry in the series that you will like because it is an entry in the series. But for people who aren’t into the series already or are generally neutral toward it, this isn’t the spot to start.

It is always comforting to turn on a new Neptunia game for fans of the franchise. It is the same, yet slightly different, and like hanging out with an old friend doing something new. Although Neptunia Game Maker R:Evolution isn't the best introduction to the franchise, it's comfortable and with the warmth and humour that the franchise is known for. The game has some annoying quirks - it sometimes feels repetitive developing new games. More quality of life updates could have made this a fun, simple simulator/action-RPG. However, the simulator aspect sometimes feels like it overstays its welcome.