Feel the Magic: XY/XX, also known as Kimi no Tame Nara Shineru or Project Rub, is an interesting blend of a dating sim and a collection of mini-games. The game revolves around our protagonist's pursuit of a lovely girl, and he relies on the assistance of the Rub Rabbits, a stylish group of performers wearing plastic rabbit ears, to capture her attention. The gameplay is filled with wacky scenarios, such as fending off bulls and extinguishing gigantic candles, all in an effort to impress the girl of our hero's dreams.
In terms of gameplay, Feel the Magic: XY/XX certainly offers a unique and refreshing experience. The mini-games are varied and often require quick reflexes, adding a sense of challenge to the game. While not all of the mini-games are created equal, there are some standout moments that will undoubtedly bring a smile to any retro gaming enthusiast's face. Moreover, the integration of the stylus controls on the Nintendo DS adds an extra layer of immersion to the overall experience.
One aspect that contributes to the nostalgic feel of the game is its visual style. The graphics pay homage to classic games from the past, with vibrant colors and charming character designs. The use of the dual screens on the Nintendo DS is utilized effectively, providing players with creative and innovative gameplay mechanics. It is clear that Sonic Team, the developer behind Feel the Magic: XY/XX, put great care and attention into capturing the essence of retro gaming.
However, as much as I appreciate the game for its attempts at nostalgia, there are certain areas where Feel the Magic: XY/XX falls short. The dating sim aspect of the game feels shallow, lacking depth and emotional engagement. The characters, including the protagonist and the girl of his dreams, are not fleshed out enough to truly form a connection with players. Additionally, the story, while initially intriguing, quickly loses momentum and fails to deliver a satisfying conclusion.
Furthermore, the controls, while generally responsive, can be imprecise at times. This can lead to frustration and detract from the overall enjoyment of the mini-games. Additionally, the difficulty spikes in certain mini-games can feel unfair and unbalanced, resulting in repetitive trial and error gameplay.
In conclusion, Feel the Magic: XY/XX is a game that attempts to capture the magic of retro gaming through its unique blend of dating sim and mini-games. While it succeeds in providing moments of nostalgia and charm, it falls short in terms of its shallow dating sim aspect and lackluster storytelling. Despite its flaws, it remains a quirky and enjoyable experience for those seeking a taste of the past. Overall, I would rate Feel the Magic: XY/XX a 3.5 out of 10.
