DRAMAtical Murder (2021) [Best games by JAST]

The Song of Saya (2019)

"The Song of Saya (2019)" plunges players into a chilling horror romance, weaving a narrative of decay, despair, and twisted love. Set in a desolate wasteland of corrupted flesh, protagonist Sakisaka Fuminori grapples with the aftermath of a catastrophic event, his sanity slowly unraveling amidst the encroaching madness. His descent into a horrific world is mirrored by the haunting beauty of the game's visuals and soundtrack, complemented by a compelling story penned by the acclaimed Urobuchi Gen (Fate/Zero, Puella Magi Madoka Magica). The exploration of love and sacrifice in the face of overwhelming dread is both unsettling and captivating. This remastered edition of the acclaimed visual novel offers a superior experience, featuring enhanced graphics, improved translation, and optimized compatibility for modern Windows systems. Developed by the talented team at Nitroplus (Steins;Gate, SoniComi), "The Song of Saya" is a compelling visual novel that stays true to its core elements while enhancing the overall user experience for a wider audience. Its inclusion on the "Best games by JAST" list is justified due to the combination of JAST USA's publishing of the English localization, the high quality, and the significant contributions of Urobuchi Gen, a writer renowned for creating immersive and emotionally resonant narratives—making this a worthy addition to JAST's impressive portfolio.

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Flowers -Le volume sur printemps- (2016)

Flowers -Le volume sur printemps- (2016) is a captivating visual novel set within the secluded, all-girls Saint Angraecum Academy. The game follows Suoh Shirahane, a shy newcomer grappling with a mysterious past, as she navigates the complexities of high school life and the unique "Amitiė" partner program. The story unfolds with a blend of mystery and romance, delving into occult rituals and student disappearances. It's a compelling narrative that masterfully blends character development with a steadily escalating sense of unease. This game firmly earns its place among JAST's best titles due to its intricate plot, memorable characters, and emotionally resonant storytelling. The atmosphere created within the academy is both alluring and unsettling, perfectly mirroring the internal struggles of the main character. The visual style, coupled with the thoughtful exploration of friendship, mystery, and the blossoming of young love, creates a compelling experience that resonates far beyond the typical visual novel. Its quality of writing, particularly the exploration of delicate relationships and the subtle nuances of occult elements, is characteristic of the high caliber productions by JAST.

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Flowers -Le volume sur ete- (2018)

Flowers -Le volume sur ete- (2018) plunges players into a compelling narrative centered around Erika Yaegaki, a character from the previous game in the series. This visual novel explores themes of friendship, heartbreak, and navigating complex interpersonal relationships as Erika grapples with the aftermath of a friend's disappearance. The story follows Erika's struggles with new classmates, a particularly difficult confrontation with the "class diva" Chidori, and how their interactions influence the development of unexpected bonds. The dynamic between these characters is a key element that drives the narrative forward. This installment showcases the high-quality writing and character development that often characterize JAST's best works. The intricate plot, nuanced relationships, and the player's role in shaping the story's outcome create a compelling experience that resonates with many of the common elements frequently found in well-received visual novels. Its exploration of relatable emotional struggles, combined with the focus on strong female character relationships, convincingly argues for its inclusion in a list celebrating the best of JAST's offerings.

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Flowers -Le volume sur automne- (2020)

"Flowers -Le volume sur automne- (2020)" is a captivating installment in the Flowers visual novel series, showcasing Innocent Grey's signature blend of beautiful artwork and intricate storytelling. This entry delves into the complex relationships and hidden motivations of the characters within Saint Angraecum Academy. The game's plot revolves around Yuzuriha Yatsushiro's quest to prevent Suoh from uncovering a truth she desperately wants to keep hidden, thrusting the player into a struggle of conflicting desires and emotions. The autumnal setting and escalating strange occurrences add depth to the narrative, making it a compelling experience for fans of well-crafted visual novels. This game rightfully belongs on the "Best games by JAST" list due to its outstanding quality in several key areas. The intricate character development, nuanced storyline exploring themes of love and truth, and the meticulous attention to detail in both writing and art are hallmarks of high-caliber Japanese visual novels. The game's ability to create a compelling narrative filled with complex characters and relatable emotions that resonate with the player elevates it above the average visual novel. Innocent Grey's demonstrated expertise in this genre, along with the game's overall polish, solidify its position among the best works in the genre.

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Flowers -Le volume sur hiver- (2022)

"Flowers -Le volume sur hiver- (2022)" concludes the captivating Flowers visual novel series, offering a poignant and emotional journey for players. Suoh Shirahane, now president of the Council of Nicaea, grapples with the mystery surrounding the disappearance of her close friend Mayuri. The game's narrative delves into the characters' inner turmoil, showcasing their resilience and the importance of friendship in the face of immense loss and hardship. The winter setting, with its swirling snowstorms and emotional weight, further amplifies the characters' struggles and underscores the depth of their bonds. This installment belongs on the "Best games by JAST" list due to its exceptional writing and artwork, which capture the nuances of the characters' emotions. The visual novel format, combined with the compelling narrative and player agency, provides a compelling and emotionally resonant experience. The exploration of trauma and loss, interwoven with the overarching mystery, elevates the game beyond a simple visual novel, making it a thoughtful and unforgettable addition to the franchise and a fitting culmination for a treasured series of stories.

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Togainu no Chi ~Lost Blood~ (2020)

Togainu no Chi ~Lost Blood~ plunges players into a brutal, post-apocalyptic Tokyo, a world scarred by war and consumed by violence. Akira, a young man hardened by a lifetime of isolation, finds himself caught in a deadly game of survival and corruption. The game's intricate narrative, coupled with stunning visuals and a powerful soundtrack, creates a visceral experience that draws players deep into the heart of Akira's struggle. Players must navigate a complex moral landscape, making tough choices that shape Akira's path and ultimately determine the fate of the city. The game's multi-ending format ensures replayability, inviting players to explore diverse outcomes and the multifaceted consequences of their actions. Togainu no Chi ~Lost Blood~ stands out as a compelling addition to the JAST roster due to its innovative blend of gritty realism, engaging narrative, and high-quality production. Nitro+CHiRAL's expertise in crafting compelling Boys' Love narratives is evident in the game's nuanced character interactions and morally grey portrayal of the underworld. The game's depth and immersive atmosphere, coupled with the full English text and original Japanese voice acting, elevates it beyond a typical visual novel, delivering a true immersion experience. The intense stakes and high level of player agency, directly affecting Akira's journey and the future of this fractured city, solidifies its place among JAST's most significant releases.

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Eiyu*Senki Gold – A New Conquest (2021)

Eiyu*Senki Gold – A New Conquest plunges players into a vibrant 2D fantasy world, inspired by ancient Eastern lore. The game's captivating narrative revolves around Masamune Date's ambition to challenge the isolationist rule of the legendary Yamato Takeru. Recruiting a mysterious amnesiac and a formidable cast of over 70 unique characters, players embark on a strategic journey of conquest, exploring exotic lands and engaging in turn-based battles. The detailed character designs, crafted by artist Ashito Oyari, perfectly complement the rich story, creating a visually stunning experience. This installment in the Eiyu*Senki series showcases JAST's commitment to strategic gameplay and compelling narratives. The emphasis on character development, side quests, and crafting systems, combined with the addictive turn-based combat, provides a rich and engaging experience. The inclusion of a New Game Plus mode further enhances replayability, ensuring players can continually refine their strategy and conquer new challenges. The game's return to familiar faces and the introduction of new characters solidifies Eiyu*Senki Gold – A New Conquest's place among JAST's best, making it an excellent choice for fans of the genre and strategy enthusiasts alike.

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sweet pool (2018)

Sakiyama Youji, recovering from a debilitating illness, finds his return to normalcy shattered by escalating bizarre symptoms and vivid, disturbing hallucinations. He's pursued by the enigmatic and intensely focused gazes of two classmates, Tetsuo and Zenya, whose motives remain shrouded in mystery. This visual novel plunges into a world of escalating obsession, conflict, and desperation, exploring themes of unspoken anxieties, hidden desires, and the devastating consequences of choices. The haunting artwork and evocative soundtrack further immerse the player in a gripping narrative that demands attention and reaction. Sweet Pool (2018) is a prime example of JAST's ability to craft compelling narratives that delve into the human psyche with depth and originality. The intricate character development, coupled with the unsettling atmosphere and the player's crucial role in shaping the story through choices, earns it a place on this list. The game's emphasis on psychological horror, complex relationships, and moral ambiguity resonates strongly with JAST's other works, demonstrating their mastery of the visual novel genre while delving into darker themes and character intricacies.

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VenusBlood HOLLOW International (2022)

VenusBlood HOLLOW International (2022) plunges players into a captivating war-torn fantasy world where the forces of good and evil clash. The game's rich narrative, detailing a struggle for power between the oppressive Dark Lords and the rising Empress Karvia, is brought to life through detailed character interactions and a compelling storyline. Players are thrust into a complex conflict, forced to navigate political intrigue and make critical choices that impact the unfolding narrative and the ultimate fate of Helvetia. The game's innovative gameplay mechanics, including battalion battles with customizable squads and dynamic unit positioning, offer a unique strategic depth. The internal administration system further enhances the tactical experience, allowing players to manage resources effectively. The inclusion of an awakening system for captured Dark Lords adds a compelling layer of moral choice. Multiple endings, depending on player choices, and a battle royale mode after the story, provide extensive replayability. This intricate blend of captivating narrative, robust tactical gameplay, and engaging choices makes it a suitable addition to the "Best games by JAST" list.

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Sisters: Last Day of Summer (2024)

Sisters: Last Day of Summer (2024) plunges players into a heartwarming narrative centered around a boy's unexpected connection with a unique family. A mysterious and beautiful setting, embraced by nature, forms the backdrop for a story of acceptance and familial bonds. The game excels at creating a believable and engaging world, showcasing the subtle complexities of human interaction through fully voiced and animated characters. The charming dynamic between the boy and the sisters, particularly the mother, Akiko, is thoughtfully crafted, inviting players to experience a fresh perspective on family and belonging. The core gameplay hinges on the exploration of this new life, prompting players to interact with the environment and characters, fostering an emotional connection. This heartfelt story resonates deeply with JAST's signature style, prioritizing emotional depth and character development. The meticulously designed environment and animation vividly illustrate the personalities of each character, allowing players to experience their emotions and motivations. The game, with its focus on fostering meaningful relationships and exploration, seamlessly aligns with JAST's commitment to creating engaging, evocative stories. Join our discord to connect with other players and delve deeper into the game's community. This particular emphasis on story and character, coupled with high-quality visuals, solidifies its place among JAST's finest works.

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Littlewitch Romanesque: Editio Regia (2015)

Littlewitch Romanesque: Editio Regia offers a captivating narrative set in the enchanting world of Stella Mundo, where young Archmage Domino must train two unique students, Aria and Kaya, within a strict three-year time frame. The game blends a compelling story, filled with dragons, assassins, and other fantastical creatures, with a rich, hands-on mentorship system. Players guide their students through magical lessons, quests, and challenging adventures, emphasizing the importance of friendship and skill development. The extensive gameplay loop, encompassing classroom instruction, quest completion, and spell mastery, allows for deep immersion in the world and its characters, with 30+ hours of story and numerous CGs by Ashito Oyari. This title, featuring a significant amount of voiced Japanese narration alongside English subtitles, aligns strongly with the JAST "Best Games" list due to its emphasis on storytelling and character development within a uniquely designed magical system. The intricate plot, numerous quests, and diverse character interactions contribute to a compelling and immersive experience. The combination of thoughtful magic instruction, engaging adventures, and a focus on mentoring aligns with JAST's appreciation for intricate narrative and gameplay mechanics, further reinforcing its inclusion.

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Gore Screaming Show (2022)

Gore Screaming Show plunges players into a nightmarish visual novel experience crafted by the acclaimed Black Cyc, known for their unsettlingly compelling horror titles. The game, featuring stunning 2D artwork by Ueda Metawo and a haunting soundtrack, follows Kyoji's return to his hometown, where he's immediately entangled in a web of mystery surrounding the enigmatic Yuka and the monstrous Gore Screaming Show. This unsettling narrative unfolds through a compelling visual novel format, complete with fully voiced characters, delivering a chilling atmosphere and unforgettable horrors. This installment from Black Cyc fits seamlessly into the "Best games by JAST" list due to its unique blend of visual storytelling, unsettling themes, and expertly crafted horror elements. The compelling narrative, the expertly designed characters, and the high-quality art style, combined with the game's horror focus, cater to JAST's preference for games that explore darker themes and offer a genuinely terrifying experience, making it a deserving addition to the list.

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VenusBlood GAIA International (2023)

VenusBlood GAIA International (2023) plunges players into a captivating narrative of a dying world threatened by a mysterious plague and a holy war. The game centers around Archduke Theofrad, a sorcerer battling against a powerful empire to protect a vital energy source, Ether. Players assume the role of Theofrad, strategically positioning and customizing units within a labyrinthine defense system to repel invaders. The story unfolds with branching paths and multiple endings, influenced by player choices, offering a compelling narrative experience. The intricate character interactions and world-building contribute significantly to the game's allure. This title is a fitting addition to the "Best Games by JAST" list because it showcases JAST's dedication to crafting immersive narratives intertwined with strategic gameplay. The dungeon defense mechanics provide a unique and engaging challenge, allowing players to master their labyrinthine defenses. The inclusion of multiple difficulty settings and alternative modes caters to different preferences, from casual story enthusiasts to hardcore completionists. The game's emphasis on tactical positioning, unit customization, and meaningful choices aligns with the core strengths identified in other noteworthy JAST productions.

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Aselia the Eternal -The Spirit of Eternity Sword- (2016)

Aselia the Eternal, released in 2016, is a captivating JRPG that blends heartfelt storytelling with strategic combat. The game follows Takamine Yuuto, a compassionate orphan thrust into a fantastical world brimming with powerful spirits and looming threats. His journey to save his sister, alongside a diverse cast of allies, showcases a compelling narrative of heroism and the bonds formed in the face of adversity. The game effectively balances emotional resonance with engaging gameplay mechanics, offering players a rich experience filled with dynamic character interactions and tactical combat challenges. This title deserves a place on the "Best Games by JAST" list due to its strong narrative, intriguing characters, and well-executed gameplay. The 21 playable characters, diverse mission structure, and multiple endings cater to a wide range of player preferences. The emphasis on strategic battles and character progression, combined with its thoughtful storyline, makes Aselia a well-rounded JRPG that stands out among JAST's releases. The inclusion of hidden content and difficulty options further enhances the replayability and ensures a memorable experience for dedicated gamers.

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Gears of Dragoon: Fragments of a New Era (2023)

Gears of Dragoon: Fragments of a New Era plunges players into the captivating city-state of Carnas, a vibrant realm where magic reigns supreme but ancient mechanical secrets lie dormant beneath. This meticulously crafted JRPG, a celebration of Ninetail's decade-long journey, blends classic RPG elements with innovative mechanics. The game's compelling narrative, rich with lore and compelling characters, explores the delicate balance between magic and machinery as a young adventurer, Rustar, uncovers the mysteries of the hidden Dragonschaft. The intricate world design, coupled with immersive storytelling and deep exploration, provides a compelling experience for fans of classic JRPGs. The game's dynamic dungeon-crawling, engaging combat, and impressive amount of content – exceeding 50 hours of play – mark it as a significant entry in the JRPG genre. Professional Japanese voice acting further elevates the emotional impact, solidifying the game's place amongst the best in the genre. This attention to detail, coupled with the unique blend of magic and machinery, is a clear hallmark of JAST's commitment to creating exceptional RPG experiences. The game's ambition and execution showcase a polished, well-developed title fitting on a list of JAST's best games.

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Sorcerer's Choice: Angel or Demon? (2023)

Experience the captivating world of Sorcerer's Choice: Angel or Demon? (2023), a stunning visual novel where a young sorcerer, Lucil, must choose between an angelic and demonic benefactor after a brutal attack. This Boys Love fantasy title plunges players into a compelling narrative filled with intense emotional conflicts and a breathtaking aesthetic. The beautifully rendered artwork and talented voice acting truly bring the characters and world to life, crafting a truly immersive experience. The struggle between the forces of light and darkness is vividly portrayed, making the decision faced by Lucil all the more impactful. This game is a perfect addition to the "Best games by JAST" list due to its intricate character development, compelling narrative, and artistic excellence. The portrayal of the complex relationships between Lucil, Flow (the angel), and Lobelia (the demon) is remarkable, exploring themes of trust, sacrifice, and the nature of good and evil. The game's focus on emotional depth and compelling choices will resonate with fans of visual novels, and the passionate performances and striking imagery are characteristic of JAST's commitment to quality storytelling.

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Seinarukana -The Spirit of Eternity Sword 2- (2017)

Seinarukana -The Spirit of Eternity Sword 2- (2017) plunges players into a sprawling fantasy universe, a multiverse interwoven with countless worlds. The story follows Nozomu, a boy harboring the soul of an ancient god, as he navigates a perilous struggle between his mortal life and the overwhelming power within him. His journey intertwines with friends burdened by similar destinies, leading to a devastating conflict where gods are reborn and alliances shatter. This epic narrative, spanning an enormous amount of gameplay, promises a unique and captivating experience with diverse characters, deep tactical combat, and the potential for six distinct outcomes. This title's inclusion on the "Best games by JAST" list is justified by its comprehensive scope and exceptional gameplay mechanics. The sheer scale of the multiverse and the interwoven destinies of the characters create a compelling narrative. The 50+ hours of strategic RPG gameplay, along with the diverse character roster and deep combat system, are significant assets. The inclusion of multiple difficulty settings and over 100 strongholds adds replayability and challenges players to hone their tactical prowess. These elements, combined with the unique narrative, solidify its place among JAST's notable achievements in the genre.

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Neko Night (2023)

Neko Night (2023) plunges players into a delightfully surreal dating sim where the stakes are surprisingly high. A freelance writer, tasked with the impossible – penning dating advice – is unexpectedly visited by two alluring catgirls. These enigmatic characters claim a divine mission to be their girlfriend, creating a unique and whimsical narrative that defies expectations. The game's distinct visual novel format, coupled with ASMR scenes, elevates the experience, making it a truly immersive and captivating story. The kawaii aesthetic and fully voiced Japanese dialogue add to the charm and appeal, making it an experience you won't soon forget. This game's inclusion on the "Best Games by JAST" list is well-deserved. The unique premise, creative storytelling, and focus on character development align perfectly with JAST's knack for producing visually appealing and engaging interactive experiences. The integration of ASMR and the emphasis on a fully voiced Japanese narrative showcase a commitment to quality and detail that is typical of JAST. The captivating story of two catgirls vying for your affections presents a fresh perspective within the genre, cementing Neko Night as a must-play for fans of this studio.

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Goblins on the March (2024)

Goblins on the March (2024) plunges players into a unique and frankly, over-the-top, goblin-centric world. Players take on the role of a reincarnated goblin, tasked with building a vast army through a combination of strategic combat and, well, a surprising amount of sexual interaction. The game promises a turn-based combat system, requiring players to manage resources, explore the world, and make key decisions to achieve their ultimate goal of goblin domination. The emphasis on "kinkiest side" and "high-quality hentai scenes" clearly indicates a focus on mature themes and explicit content. This game aligns perfectly with the JAST catalog by showcasing a unique blend of strategic gameplay, over-the-top scenarios, and graphic content. Its focus on achieving victory through unconventional methods, coupled with its explicit nature, fits the artistic and thematic elements frequently found in JAST's titles. The emphasis on building an army through sexual conquest adds an unusual but defining characteristic. Players looking for a game with a specific focus on the described themes are likely to find this appealing.

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Nope Nope Nurses Melee (2024)

Nope Nope Nurses Melee (2024) is a bizarre and delightful 2D fighting game, a surprising spin-off from the popular Sakusei Byoutou franchise. The game throws players into a chaotic world where nurses, fueled by a mysterious coffee, engage in brutal, 640x480 pixel battles. The unique "Sperm Stock" system and "Medical Combos" add layers of absurdity and strategy to the fighting mechanics, while a compelling, if somewhat bizarre, story mode unfolds through the perspective of Tachibana. The low-resolution aesthetic, while seemingly a limitation, contributes to the game's charm, recalling the retro gaming aesthetic of the early 2000s, giving it a unique place within the wider JAST catalog. This game's inclusion in the "Best games by JAST" list is justified by its distinctive blend of unique humor, quirky characters, and unexpectedly deep fighting mechanics. Developed with 2D Fighter Maker 2nd, the game's production values might not be the highest, yet the creators have delivered a thoroughly engaging and unexpected fighting experience. The game's focus on character interactions, coupled with the unique storyline and setting rooted in the Sakusei Byoutou universe, presents a compelling argument for its inclusion in the "Best" list, acknowledging the game's merits within a specific, perhaps niche, audience and its surprising depth.

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