Japanese otome game developer Voltage has announced plans to bring their 2022 visual novel even if TEMPEST. Once a Nintendo Switch exclusive, the title is now marked as “Coming soon” on Steam.
even if TEMPEST is a dark fantasy set in a historical European backdrop where witchcraft trials and executions are rampant. Players step into the shoes of Anastasia, the troubled daughter of a marquess. Her misfortunes eventually lead to her being condemned to burn at the stake, but just as her fate seems sealed, she discovers the power of “Fatal Rewind,” enabling her to rewind time and seek a better destiny for herself. However, the path ahead is fraught with challenges, and Anastasia must endure more suffering before she can achieve her happy ending.
As an otome game, the main cast includes charming men who serve as potential romantic interests for Anastasia, though their dark backstories ensure they are far from conventional heroes.
What distinguishes even if TEMPEST from other games in the genre, besides the Fatal Rewind mechanic, is its gameplay loop. Similar to acclaimed courtroom drama titles like the Ace Attorney and Danganronpa series, players must first investigate to uncover those responsible for the deeds of The Witch of Ruin, gathering clues and testimonies to uncover the truth. Subsequently, players will utilize the evidence they’ve collected in a trial sequence to apprehend the culprit.
The game offers branching storylines and a flowchart that lets players navigate the game’s timelines freely. The full scope of the game’s mysteries will only be revealed after every path has been explored, ensuring high replay value. Additionally, the game features full voice acting for all characters except the protagonist.
even if TEMPEST received a companion “fan disc” spinoff called even if TEMPEST: Dawning Connections in 2023 for Nintendo Switch, which emphasized the romantic aspects of the original. Another title set in the same universe, sins of KALEIDO, is slated for release on July 16, also on Switch. No details have been shared regarding PC ports for these titles, but fans without a Nintendo system can soon enjoy the original game on PC.
even if TEMPEST’s Steam page can be accessed here. The Switch version is currently on sale at 55% off until July 20 on the Nintendo eShop, alongside its spinoff Dawning Connections at 50% off.