The visual novel genre, while popular on PC, has seen limited representation on mobile platforms, with notable exceptions like the Methods series. This may stem from a bias against the genre among Western gamers or a lack of interest from publishers traditionally focused on PC gaming. However, Seedsow Lullaby is poised to challenge this trend with its upcoming release on May 1st for iOS and Android.
At first glance, Seedsow Lullaby might seem perplexing as it is marketed as a visual novel devoid of choices or branching paths. You might wonder, "Isn't that the essence of a visual novel?" While traditionally yes, Seedsow Lullaby offers a unique premise that could compensate for this departure from the norm.
In Seedsow Lullaby, protagonist Misuzu, a high school student, must come to terms with the sudden appearance of a younger version of her deceased mother on her sixteenth birthday. This woman, also sixteen, reveals that Misuzu is destined to conduct the Seedsow Ceremony, a ritual crucial for the rebirth of the gods. To accomplish this, Misuzu must not only work with her mother but also her future daughter, drawn from a time yet to come.
Time travel is no stranger to visual novels, as seen in iconic titles like Steins;Gate, which is renowned for its intricate use of alternative timelines and branching narratives. However, Seedsow Lullaby promises a more linear exploration of time manipulation, focusing on the themes of life, death, and the inevitability of the future.
While the lack of choices might deter some fans, the compelling narrative of grappling with existential questions should make for a captivating storyline. Keep an eye out for the international release of Seedsow Lullaby.
In the meantime, if you're looking for something to play, why not explore our list of the top five new mobile games to try this week?