Releasing a new otome visual novel exclusively on the Nintendo Switch, Aksys Games released Winter’s Wish: Spirits of Edo through physical and digital distribution channels. Originally developed by Otomate and published by Idea Factory, Winter Wish: Spirits of Edo was first released in Japan in mid-2021 under the title Kimi wa Yukima ni Koinegau / 君は雪間に希う
The protagonist, Suzuno, a girl once alienated due to her mysterious abilities, finds herself in the midst of a clandestine operation, acting for the shogunate.
The game’s narrative takes players to the first year of the Kyoho era in Japan, a time when the eighth shogun, Yoshimune Tokugawa, ruled the land. During this period, the town of Edo witnesses a series of disruptions caused by monsters, instilling fear and uncertainty among its residents. In response, the Tokugawa shogunate established the “Oniwaban” to restore public order and provide safety.
Fast forward to eleven years later, Suzuno, born with special powers in a remote village outside Edo, is cast out into the snowy mountains by the fearful townsfolk. Her unsettling ability to foresee calamities via “black Threads” has caused unease amongst the villagers. However, Suzuno’s life takes a turn when representatives from the enigmatic Oniwaban enlist her services in Edo. Her once ostracised power soon becomes an invaluable asset in their battle against the monsters.
Winter’s Wish: Spirits of Edo sets out to distinguish itself through a offering a blend of elements from fantasy and historical Japan genres, which they acknowledge are reminiscent of their first localized console otome game, Hakuoki: Demon of the Fleeting Blossom. The visual novel sets out to deliver an emotional tale with its stunning visuals and multiple endings – allowing players to align the protagonist with one of three Oniwaban divisions, delving deeper into her relationship with her colleagues – some of whom might not even be human.
