Review of Genso Manège for Nintendo Switch

Genso Manège is a fresh addition to the otome visual novel scene on the Nintendo Switch, brought to life by the collaboration between PQube, Mages, and Love and Art. Set in a reimagined version of France, the story unfolds in Blancbourg, a quaint town nestled near the country’s eastern border. This town is the new season’s stage for La Foire du Rêve, a whimsical traveling amusement park. The protagonist, Emma, embarks on a captivating journey of self-discovery, uncovering the layers of her own identity along the way.

As Emma delves deeper into the peculiar world of La Foire du Rêve, she uncovers a startling secret: the park’s crew is mysteriously trapped by a magical bond that prevents them from leaving. Emma, it turns out, has the power to free them, but she must labor at the park to replenish the magic needed to end the enchantment. An accident years ago stole a decade of her memories, adding another layer of intrigue to her quest. What truths will she unearth? That’s for players to discover as they dive into the game!

For those new to visual novels, this genre heavily emphasizes narrative. Some visual novels guide players through a linear storyline, while others, like Genso Manège, present choices that influence different narrative paths and potential romances. With its otome format, Genso Manège places players in the shoes of a female protagonist who encounters the possibility of finding love. The game features voice acting, typically in Japanese, enhancing the immersive experience.

Playing Genso Manège on the Switch offers flexibility. Use the Joy-Con controllers or tap into the console’s touchscreen capabilities in Tabletop or Portable Mode, or on a Nintendo Switch Lite. Select your choices with either the analog sticks or D-Pad, confirming with the A button. Players can progress the dialogue manually or engage Auto Mode with the Y button for seamless storytelling.

The game introduces a mini-game called the Éveil System as a means to regain Emma’s magical abilities. Players collect stars appearing randomly on the screen using either physical controls or the touchscreen. Gather enough, and a star-shaped outline appears in Emma’s hands. Align it with precision using the A button to complete the mini-game — but worry not, after the first tutorial, you can skip it and still receive an A rank.

Throughout her adventure, Emma encounters intriguing individuals, each with unique backgrounds and personalities. Hugo, the director, is a charming 25-year-old with a royal demeanor hiding a playful side. Serge, his trusty accountant, exhibits a cool exterior but harbors hidden depths. Crier, the 17-year-old star performer, surprises with his caring nature. Lyon, the enigmatic mascot, remains a mystery beneath his costume, while Luciole, the introverted mechanic, prefers solitude in his workshop. Arnaud, a journalist and Emma’s childhood friend, offers a familiar but intriguing route to explore.

Genso Manège is set against the enchanting backdrop of Blancbourg, where a season of magic and mystery unfurls at La Foire du Rêve. Players will explore their journey of self-discovery as Emma unravels the secrets within. The Extras section provides additional content, such as a CG Library, Sound Library, and more surprises waiting to be unlocked. Available now on Nintendo Switch, Genso Manège is priced at $49.99.

Will you uncover the mysteries of your past and the world around you? Only by stepping into Emma’s shoes will you find out! This review is based on a Nintendo Switch copy graciously provided by PQube.