If you love visual novels as much as I do, you probably already know how deeply moving and beautifully crafted the original “Kanon” is. I played the original release with an English translation patch because, back then, it was never officially published in North America. Fast forward to now, and I couldn’t be more thrilled that a remastered version has just been released on Steam for PC gamers! You can check it out here.
Kanon Overview
What is Kanon?
“Kanon” is a visual novel developed by Key, a renowned studio known for creating emotionally impactful and beautifully written games. First released in 1999, “Kanon” was Key’s debut visual novel, paving the way for other beloved titles like “Clannad” and “Little Busters.” “Kanon” combines elements of drama, romance, and supernatural themes, set against a backdrop of a snow-covered town that adds to its melancholic and hopeful atmosphere.
Characters
- Yuichi Aizawa: The protagonist, a cynical yet kind-hearted high school student who returns to the town after seven years. He is known for his loyalty and willingness to help others, often at his own expense.
- Ayu Tsukimiya: A quirky and mysterious girl with a winged backpack and a penchant for taiyaki (a type of fish-shaped pastry). She often uses the catchphrase “uguu” to express her frustration and other emotions.
- Nayuki Minase: Yuichi’s cousin who has been in love with him since childhood. She is known for her slow speech and difficulty waking up in the morning.
- Makoto Sawatari: A mischievous girl with amnesia who holds a grudge against Yuichi from his last visit to the town.
- Shiori Misaka: A first-year high school student suffering from an unexplained illness that makes her physically weak and often absent from school.
- Mai Kawasumi: A quiet and stoic girl who spends her nights fighting mysterious creatures in the school.
Plot and Premise
“Kanon” follows Yuichi Aizawa as he returns to a town he used to visit frequently during his childhood. Upon his return, he encounters several girls with whom he shares forgotten memories and promises. The story is deeply intertwined with themes of memory, loss, and miracles, with each character’s narrative offering a blend of heartbreak and hope.
Key’s Legacy and Kanon’s Place
Key is celebrated for its ability to craft deeply emotional stories, with “Clannad” and “Air” standing out as prime examples. “Clannad,” in particular, is known for its extensive narrative and emotional depth, much like “Kanon.” Fans of these titles will recognize the signature storytelling style in “Kanon,” which features:
- Length: “Kanon” offers a moderate playtime compared to the extensive “Clannad,” making it more accessible for those new to visual novels.
- Tone: Both games share a mix of heart-wrenching sadness and uplifting hope, but “Kanon” has a more intimate, personal feel due to its shorter length and focused character arcs.
- Style: The visual style of “Kanon” has been beautifully updated in the remaster, retaining its original charm while enhancing the overall aesthetic for modern audiences.
- Gameplay: Like “Clannad,” “Kanon” features branching narratives with multiple endings, driven by player choices that affect the storyline.
The Need for “Air” in North America
As much as we celebrate the remastered release of “Kanon,” we still yearn for an official North American release of “Air,” another beloved visual novel by Key. “Air” shares many thematic elements with “Kanon,” focusing on deeply emotional and supernatural narratives that have captivated fans worldwide.
Comparing the 1999 and 2024 Versions
Original Kanon (1999):
- Visuals: The original “Kanon” was released by Key and featured charming, albeit dated, 2D graphics typical of the late 90s. Despite the limitations, the artwork had a unique charm and was deeply expressive, capturing the emotional depth of the story.
- Gameplay: As a classic visual novel, it focused on branching narratives and player choices that influence the story’s direction. Each heroine had her route, with deep, emotional arcs that could bring you to tears.
- Sound: The music and sound effects were fitting for the time, contributing to the game’s melancholic and hopeful atmosphere.
Remastered Kanon (2024):
- Visuals: The remaster boasts significantly updated graphics, bringing the beloved characters and snowy landscapes to life with HD visuals. The artwork retains the original’s charm but with enhanced details and modern polish, making the experience even more immersive.
- Gameplay: While the core gameplay remains faithful to the original, with branching paths and multiple endings, the remaster includes quality-of-life improvements such as better UI/UX, making navigation and interaction smoother.
- Sound: The remastered version features enhanced soundtracks and voice acting, ensuring that the heartwarming and heart-wrenching moments hit even harder.
Why I Love Kanon
The reason “Kanon” holds a special place in my heart is because it masterfully blends heartbreakingly sad and hopeful elements into a beautifully written story. The themes of memory, loss, and miracles are intricately woven into the narrative, and each character’s journey is both poignant and uplifting. The game’s setting, always covered in a blanket of snow, adds to its unique, melancholic charm, making every interaction and revelation feel more profound.
If you’re new to “Kanon” or a long-time fan like me, the remastered version on Steam is a fantastic way to experience or revisit this classic visual novel. With its updated graphics, refined sound, and improved gameplay, it promises to be an unforgettable journey.
Head over to Steam and dive into the wintery world of “Kanon” – trust me, it’s a journey worth taking. Check it out here.
