Description

"Sakura Taisen 2: Kimi, Shinitamou Koto Nakare" (Sakura Wars 2: Thou Shalt Not Die) is a pivotal entry in the renowned Sakura Wars series, released for the Sega Saturn in 1998 exclusively in Japan. Combining tactical role-playing, dating sim, and visual novel elements, the game continues the adventures of the Imperial Floral Assault Group, an eclectic troupe of performers and mech pilots defending steampunk-infused 1920s Tokyo from supernatural threats. Players assume the role of Ichiro Ogami, a naval officer and the team’s leader, as they navigate both battlefield strategies against demonic foes and interpersonal relationships with the troupe members. The decisions made in these interactions significantly influence the storyline and combat abilities of the characters.

The gameplay of Sakura Taisen 2 is divided into two main components: an adventure mode and a battle mode. In adventure mode, players engage in character-driven dialogue and make choices that affect their relationships and the story's outcome. This mode is distinguished by its Live & Interactive Picture System (LIPS), where players must make dialogue choices within a time limit, adding urgency and realism to interactions. The battle mode, on the other hand, switches to a tactical map where players control the characters in their "Kobu" mecha units to fight strategic, turn-based battles. Notable for its improved graphics and deeper narrative compared to its predecessor, the game's blend of genres and its engaging, character-centric storytelling helped cement its status as a cult classic and contributed significantly to the enduring popularity of the Sakura Wars series.