Description

"Étude Prologue: Yureugoku Kokoro no Katachi" is a visual novel video game developed by Cocktail Soft, a brand of the Japanese company FamilySoft known for their adventure and visual novel games. Released in 1997 exclusively in Japan for the Sega Saturn console, "Étude Prologue" invites players into an intricately woven narrative set in a high school, combining elements of drama and romance to craft a deeply engaging storyline. Players follow the life of Sawai Shinichiro, a high school student who encounters various individuals with unique backgrounds and personalities, and through his interactions, the story delves into themes of love, friendship, and the complexities of human emotions.

The gameplay in "Étude Prologue" primarily revolves around making narrative choices that influence the direction and outcome of the story, highlighting the visual novel’s emphasis on player-driven storytelling. The game is notable for its detailed character art and backgrounds, which were quite impressive for the time, enhancing the overall immersive experience. The music and sound effects further complement the emotional narrative, drawing players deeper into the world of "Étude Prologue." Although it never received an official English translation, the game has garnered a cult following and remains a beloved example among enthusiasts of classic visual novels, demonstrating the lasting appeal of well-crafted interactive storytelling in the video game medium.