Rakuen: Deluxe Edition

 Switch
Rakuen: Deluxe Edition Image
Metascore
86

Generally favorable reviews - based on 6 Critic Reviews What's this?

User Score
9.0

Universal acclaim- based on 25 Ratings

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  • Summary: Rakuen is a story-based adventure game about a little Boy who becomes bored with living in a hospital, and eventually asks his mother if she'll escort him to the fantasy world from his favorite storybook. Throughout the game, the Boy begins to learn more about the patients who live aroundRakuen is a story-based adventure game about a little Boy who becomes bored with living in a hospital, and eventually asks his mother if she'll escort him to the fantasy world from his favorite storybook. Throughout the game, the Boy begins to learn more about the patients who live around him. They each have their own secrets and struggles that are mysteriously tied to the strange hospital. In helping those around him, the Boy deals with questions about empathy, hope, and what it means to leave behind a legacy by coming to terms with his own story.… Expand

Critic Reviews

Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 5 out of 6
  2. Mixed: 1 out of 6
  3. Negative: 0 out of 6
  1. NintendoWorldReport
    Mar 21, 2023
    95
    More than anything Rakuen and Mr. Saitou both deliver a delightfully charming experience in a magical world, but one that has the potential to leave you an emotional wreck by the end. The colorful art design and memorable characters are sure to keep the game in your mind for a long time, and Laura Shigihara's background as a musician is clear to see with the game's soundtrack, juggling fun bouncy pieces and somber tunes alongside multiple well done vocal tracks. It is not a soundtrack you will forget any time soon. Rakuen is a story about grief and life, one that is told well and that people should absolutely experience if given the opportunity. Just make sure you have a box of tissues at the ready, just in case.
  2. Nintenderos
    Mar 27, 2023
    90
    Returning to the world of Rakuen on Nintendo Switch has delighted us. Rarely in video games have we seen such an emotional story with such a great soundtrack. While it all depends on whether you connect with its premise, additions like Mr. Saitou or Laura Shigihara's short films are enough for us to recommend you to relive this exciting adventure.
  3. TouchArcade
    Apr 11, 2023
    90
    Rakuen: Deluxe Edition has a few different things to offer, with the titular Rakuen being the star of the show. It’s a bittersweet, deeply emotional story set in a rich, well-realized setting and it’s absolutely unforgettable. The visuals may be simple but they more than serve the purpose, and the soundtrack is outstanding. The other included items in this package are more like nice bonuses, but they are certainly quite welcome. If you enjoy a good yarn, grab a box of tissues and settle in with this over an evening or two.
  4. Destructoid
    Mar 21, 2023
    85
    Fortunately, Rakuen on its own justifies the Deluxe Edition. Though a bit uneven, its best moments are spectacular enough to warrant a recommendation for anyone in need of a good cry or two. I do wish Mr. Saitou reached the same emotional heights, but it’s serviceable if viewed strictly as a bonus. That said, if you wanted to save money and get vanilla Rakuen on PC, I wouldn’t stop you.
  5. Multiplayer.it
    Mar 22, 2023
    80
    Rakuen is an isekai adventure that deserves to be lived for the first time by those who missed it when it first came out and to be appreciated one more time by those who had already loved it. Rakuen Deluxe Edition puts together both the video games and the animated series created so far on this well-characterized and recognizable universe, coming with its characters and its own rules, filled with memorable and intense stories.
  6. Pure Nintendo
    Apr 24, 2023
    70
    My gaming acumen recognizes Rakuen: Deluxe Edition as a high-quality release that checks most of the right boxes. At the same time, this is a title I simply never want to play again and am anxious to forget. Its heavy-handed final act is unpleasantly predictable, making a game that felt fresh feel paradoxically clichéd. People grieve differently, and many will meld with this finished product. But I’m left saying it’s a good game that’s not for me: too bitter without enough sweetness to offset it.

User Reviews

Write a Review
Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 6 out of 7
  2. Mixed: 1 out of 7
  3. Negative: 0 out of 7
  1. botatoboy
    May 5, 2023
    10
    Botato army reporting in. Love the music, love the characters, game has a lot of heart.
  2. inverse42
    May 6, 2023
    10
    Have you ever cried for a video game? A heartfelt story and a wonderful soundtrack, this is a game that really needs to be experienced! TheHave you ever cried for a video game? A heartfelt story and a wonderful soundtrack, this is a game that really needs to be experienced! The shifting contrast of humour and sorrow leads to a beautifully bittersweet experience. We need more games with meaning and personality. Highly recommended!… Expand
  4. FeferPlays
    Mar 27, 2023
    10
    Sweet story, lovely soundtrack, unforgettable characters and adventure. ❤️
  5. UltraZeroX7
    May 5, 2023
    10
    A lovely game with a compelling storyline/themes, nice character designs/art, and a beautiful soundtrack that will surely shine your light. IfA lovely game with a compelling storyline/themes, nice character designs/art, and a beautiful soundtrack that will surely shine your light. If you're onto games with an emotional substance, this one is for you. Highly recommended.… Expand
  6. cocoapebbles
    Mar 27, 2023
    10
    This was a truly beautiful game when I played it back in 2017 with its excellent writing and characters, memorable soundtrack, and art thatThis was a truly beautiful game when I played it back in 2017 with its excellent writing and characters, memorable soundtrack, and art that pulled me in as soon as I experienced the bright world beyond the secret doors of the hospital. Despite crying multiple times, I actually came out of this experience feeling hopeful and inspired to reach out to loved ones that I hadn't spoke with in too long.

    Now that Rakuen is on Switch, I've had the chance to experience it again with my (now older) children, and it's as beautiful as ever. It also comes with an animated film collection and a spin-off game (Mr. Saitou) that is surprisingly funny and moving. Very much worth it, whether it's your first time playing, or you're returning to the world after a long absence.    … Expand
  7. McButterstotch
    May 5, 2023
    10
    A phenominal story game full of amazing characters an is charming and bittersweet but ultimately life-affirming with an incredibly wellA phenominal story game full of amazing characters an is charming and bittersweet but ultimately life-affirming with an incredibly well crafted soundtrack with emotional vocal performances and tracks from world class composer Laura Shigihara.
    it is just a joy to experience as the story unravels, easily worth anyone's time!
    I can't recommend it enough!    … Expand
  8. heybranny
    Jul 12, 2023
    7
    Enjoyable story. Good game to play handheld. Felt a little slow at times but good overall.

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