JAST USA translated it into English in 1996, and it gained renewed popularity with a 2002 re-release for modern Windows systems.
Known for its compelling characters, evocative setting, and high replay value, this game provides players with a unique romantic journey.
Early Years and Anime References
The game, released in 1996, incorporated thinly veiled references to popular anime series like Neon Genesis Evangelion, Magic Knight Rayearth, and Saint Tail.
Each female character in the game draws inspiration from these anime, contributing to the overall charm of the narrative.
Gameplay Mechanics
Season of the Sakura follows the story of Shuji Yamagami, a Japanese high school student, throughout an academic year. The gameplay involves reading through text and selecting actions for Shuji to perform.
The choices, composed of verbs and targets, shape the course of Shuji’s romantic journey.
Plot
Shuji encounters eight girls throughout the year, and the player’s decisions determine which one becomes his girlfriend. The game focuses on romantic scenes and skips the mundane aspects of school life.
The narrative unfolds during holidays and moments spent with friends, creating an immersive experience as Shuji gradually falls in love.
Age Alterations and Controversy
During the translation process from Japanese to English, the characters’ ages underwent changes to avoid controversy. The main character and most girls were adjusted to 18 years old to align with the American age of consent.
This alteration aimed to navigate potential issues related to certain scenes involving younger characters.
Meet the Characters
Shuji Yamagami
The main character controlled by the player, successful in various endeavors but clueless about girls and terrified of the ocean.
Reiko Sawamura
Two years older than Shuji, a kind-hearted and strong swimmer resembling Umi Ryuzaki from Magic Knight Rayearth.
Kiyomi Shinfuji
Shuji’s academically gifted and slightly shy classmate, resembling Fuu Hououji from Magic Knight Rayearth.
Mio Suzuki
A bright and active girl who loves tennis, resembling Hikaru Shidou from Magic Knight Rayearth.
Ruri Shiromizu
An introverted and quiet girl resembling Rei Ayanami from Neon Genesis Evangelion.
Aki Hinagiku
A loud and aggressive tennis enthusiast resembling Asuka Langley from Neon Genesis Evangelion.
Seia Yoshida
A gentle and kind Catholic girl resembling Seira Mimori from Saint Tail.
Meimi Nakano
A stubborn and argumentative girl planning to join her mother’s circus troupe, resembling Meimi Haneoka from Saint Tail.
Shoko Nishino
A shallow football enthusiast resembling Shoko Inaba from Welcome to Pia Carrot, another dating sim.
Kyoko Kobayashi
The easy-going homeroom teacher resembling Misato Katsuragi from Neon Genesis Evangelion.
Makoto Shimazaki
Shuji’s best friend, a military enthusiast resembling Kensuke Aida from Neon Genesis Evangelion.
Play Season of the Sakura Online
Season of the Sakura offers a versatile gaming experience. Whether on your computer, mobile phone, or tablet, you can play Season of the Sakura online, in a web browser!