Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

Cal III: Kanketsuhen keeps to the classic visual novel formula, focusing almost entirely on narrative and character interaction. Players will navigate through beautifully rendered text screens, selecting dialogue options that guide Wataru’s responses and relationships. While most choices are optional and lead to slightly different character exchanges, only a handful determine critical branching points or trigger a Game Over, maintaining a generally forgiving experience for newcomers.

The pace is deliberately measured, with long stretches of dialogue punctuated by CG illustrations and occasionally animated sequences. This design ensures that the story takes center stage, but it also means there’s no traditional exploration or puzzle-solving to break up the reading. Fans of branching narratives will appreciate the occasional decision that deepens bonds with the goddesses, though those seeking mechanical variety may find the formula familiar.

Replay value hinges on uncovering every character path and unlocking alternate endings. Given the linear structure, most players will breeze through the main storyline in a single playthrough, then revisit key decision points to see hidden scenes. The modest number of Game Over triggers adds a light challenge for completionists, but the real draw is experiencing Ches, Venus, and the other divine characters in all their narrative glory.

Graphics

Visually, Cal III shines with its high-quality character art and richly detailed backgrounds that evoke ancient Greek architecture intertwined with modern Japanese elements. Each goddess is illustrated with care, showcasing expressive faces and fluid body language that bring their personalities to life. The color palette blends soft pastels in the mortal world with vibrant hues in the realm of gods, creating a clear visual contrast between settings.

CG events are sprinkled throughout pivotal moments of the plot, providing striking full-screen illustrations that highlight emotional climaxes or dramatic confrontations. Though animations are minimal, subtle touches—such as blinking eyes or flowing hair—add just enough motion to prevent scenes from feeling static. The overall presentation retains the charm of earlier entries while benefiting from improved line work and shading techniques.

Backgrounds deserve special praise: from Wataru’s modest bedroom in modern-day Japan to grandiose temples and war-torn battlefields of Troy, each locale feels distinct and immersive. The art team’s attention to detail—from carved stone reliefs to the dappling of sunlight through leaves—helps ground the fantasy elements in real-world lore. Coupled with tasteful visual novel UI elements, the game offers an intuitive and aesthetically pleasing way to experience the story.

Story

Two years have passed since Wataru Ishibashi’s first adventure in a world of goddesses, and Cal III picks up with the promise of a peaceful reunion—until fate intervenes. When Ches, the endearing cat-like fairy, summons Wataru back to the divine realm, players are plunged into a conflict that ties Greek myth to a contemporary love story. The Trojan War serves as both backdrop and catalyst, weaving historical legend into the game’s romantic framework.

The narrative balances lighthearted banter with higher-stakes drama. Early scenes focus on Wataru’s affectionate rapport with Mika and the playful rivalry among the goddesses, providing plenty of charm and humor. As the plot progresses, political intrigue among Olympus’s deities and the devastation of the Trojan War inject tension, showcasing the writers’ ability to handle both intimacy and grand scale conflict.

Character development remains the heart of Cal III. Wataru grows from a wide-eyed high-schooler into a more confident hero, facing difficult moral choices and witnessing the consequences of divine intervention. Supporting figures like Ches reveal deeper motivations over time, and Venus’s plight underscores themes of love, sacrifice, and fate. Even players unfamiliar with Greek mythology will find the story accessible, thanks to concise exposition and well-timed flashbacks.

Overall Experience

Cal III: Kanketsuhen offers a polished visual novel journey that will satisfy longtime fans and newcomers alike. Its linear structure and minimal gameplay mechanics keep the focus squarely on narrative and character moments, delivering a cohesive tale of love and mythology. Though it lacks side quests or mini-games, the strength of its writing and art compensate for the streamlined interactivity.

The game’s more subdued approach to sexual content compared to its predecessors makes it approachable for players who prefer lighter mature themes, while still retaining the romantic tension that defines the series. A well-chosen soundtrack and professional voice acting (in the Japanese original) further elevate the emotional beats, making key scenes memorable and impactful.

For buyers seeking an engaging story woven with ancient lore, compelling heroines, and heartfelt romance, Cal III: Kanketsuhen is a solid pick. Its modest set of meaningful choices encourages multiple playthroughs to unlock all endings, and the artwork alone is worth the price of admission. While it may not break new ground in gameplay mechanics, it delivers a satisfying conclusion to Wataru’s adventures in the world of gods.

Retro Replay Score

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