Japanese game studio CyberStep has revealed plans to launch Nara☆Koi〜Even ancient people want to fall in love〜 (unofficial translation) on Nintendo Switch and PC via Steam. The developer has taken over the project, previously known as Nara☆Koi, from indie creator Aonimaru, whose initial proposal gained attention back in March this year.
The original Nara☆Koi was crafted as an otome game allowing players to engage in romantic relationships with historical figures such as Prince Shotoku and Otomo no Yakamochi. A gender-swapped version of Japanese diplomat Ono no Imoko serves as the protagonist, and the narrative unfolds in contemporary Nara, portraying the high school experiences of numerous significant figures from Japan’s past.
Market as a “super ancient otome game,” Nara☆Koi amassed considerable online popularity due to its unconventional premise and the fact that all characters (excluding the main character) were depicted as “portrait-accurate” representations of their real-life counterparts. The game’s production and scenario were overseen by Aonimaru, while Bakkinu provided the illustrations. The creative duo has collaborated on free games like the humorous RPG Phi Nara Fantasy and An RPG About Working Hard on Your Tax Return (unofficial translations).
According to a press release, CyberStep expressed enthusiasm for Nara☆Koi and, after discussions with Aonimaru, agreed to assume the project and its development. Although the new game is being produced under the title Nara☆Koi〜Even ancient people want to fall in love〜, it will retain the original concept and feature a scenario written by Aonimaru.
Nara☆Koi〜Even ancient people want to fall in love〜 is currently in development for Nintendo Switch and PC (Steam).
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