Rakuen (video game) - Wikipedia
Rakuen [serial number]: A Review of the Award-Winning Indie Adventure Game
If you are looking for a game that will make you laugh, cry, think, and feel, then you should definitely check out Rakuen [serial number]. This indie adventure game is created by Laura Shigihara, a talented musician and game developer who also composed the soundtrack for Plants vs. Zombies. Rakuen [serial number] is a game that will take you on a journey through a magical world that is connected to a hospital ward where a boy is staying with his mother. You will meet colorful characters, solve puzzles, explore secrets, and discover the power of imagination.
Rakuen [serial number]
What is Rakuen?
The story and the gameplay
Rakuen [serial number] is inspired by classic games like To The Moon, Earthbound, and The Legend of Zelda. It follows the story of a boy who is hospitalized due to an unknown illness. His mother reads him a book called Rakuen, which means paradise in Japanese. It is a story about a fantasy land where a creature called the Guardian of the Forest can grant any wish to those who complete his challenges.
The boy asks his mother if they can visit Rakuen together so he can ask for his one wish. She agrees, and they enter the world of Rakuen through a mysterious door in his room. There, they encounter various characters who are also patients or staff in the hospital, but have different roles in Rakuen. For example, there is Tony, a grumpy old man who becomes an onion farmer; Winston, a kind-hearted gentleman who becomes a prince; Sue, a shy girl who becomes a mermaid; Cora, a cheerful nurse who becomes a fairy; and many more.
The The gameplay of Rakuen [serial number] is mainly focused on exploration, dialogue, and puzzle-solving. You can switch between the boy and his mother as you navigate the different areas of Rakuen and the hospital. You can also interact with various objects and characters, and collect items that can help you progress. Some of the puzzles are based on logic, while others are based on creativity. You will also encounter some mini-games that add variety and fun to the gameplay.
The graphics and the music
Rakuen [serial number] has a charming pixel art style that creates a nostalgic and whimsical atmosphere. The graphics are colorful and detailed, and the animations are smooth and expressive. The game also features some beautiful illustrations that enhance the storytelling and the mood. The game has a dynamic lighting system that changes depending on the time of day and the location. You will see the sun rise and set, the stars twinkle, and the shadows move.
The music of Rakuen [serial number] is composed by Laura Shigihara herself, who is also the voice of the boy's mother. The music is a blend of piano, guitar, violin, flute, and other instruments, as well as some vocal songs. The music is soothing and emotional, and matches the tone and the theme of the game. The music also changes depending on the situation and the character. For example, Tony's theme is a catchy and upbeat tune that reflects his personality, while Winston's theme is a sad and melancholic melody that reflects his past.
The features and the platforms
Rakuen [serial number] has some features that make it more enjoyable and accessible for players. For example, you can save your progress at any time by using your bed in your hospital room. You can also customize your controls and adjust the sound and display settings. You can also access a journal that records your quests, items, characters, and secrets. You can also replay any cutscene or song that you have seen or heard in the game.
Rakuen [serial number] is available for Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, Android, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One. You can download it from Steam, GOG.com, itch.io, App Store, Google Play Store, Nintendo eShop, PlayStation Store, or Microsoft Store. The game supports English, Japanese, Spanish, French, German, Portuguese, Russian, Chinese, Korean, and Arabic languages.
Why should you play Rakuen?
The emotional impact and the message
Rakuen [serial number] is a game that will touch your heart and make you feel a range of emotions. The game deals with topics such as life, death, love, friendship, family, hope, dreams, regrets, forgiveness, and acceptance. The game shows how each character has their own story and their own struggles, but also how they can help each other and find happiness in Rakuen. The game also shows how imagination can be a powerful tool to cope with reality and to create your own paradise.
The game has a message that will inspire you and make you think about your own life and choices. The game encourages you to appreciate what you have, to cherish your loved ones, to pursue your passions, to overcome your fears, to face your problems, to learn from your mistakes, and to be kind to yourself and others. The game also reminds you that you are not alone, and that you can always find support and comfort in your friends, family, and community.
The creativity and the diversity
Rakuen [serial number] is a game that will impress you with its creativity and diversity. The game has a rich and original world that is full of wonders and surprises. You will visit different places in Rakuen, such as a forest, a cave, a village, a castle, an ocean, a sky, and more. You will also meet different creatures and races, such as humans, animals, plants, spirits, robots, aliens, and more. You will also discover different cultures and traditions, such as festivals, dances, songs, stories, and more.
The game also has a diverse and inclusive cast of characters that represent different backgrounds, identities, personalities, and abilities. You will see characters of different genders, ages, ethnicities, orientations, religions, and disabilities. You will also see characters with different interests, hobbies, talents, occupations, and goals. You will also see characters with different relationships, such as friends, family, lovers, enemies, allies, and rivals.
The challenges and the rewards
Rakuen [serial number] is a game that will challenge you and reward you. The game has various puzzles and mini-games that will test your logic, memory, reflexes, creativity, and intuition. Some of the puzzles are easy and straightforward, while others are hard and tricky. Some of the puzzles are optional and hidden, while others are mandatory and obvious. Some of the puzzles are fun and humorous, while others are serious and emotional.
The game also has various rewards that will satisfy you and motivate you. The game has multiple endings that depend on your choices and actions. Some of the endings are happy and hopeful, while others are sad and tragic. The game also has multiple achievements that you can unlock by completing certain tasks or finding certain items. Some of the achievements are easy and common, while others are hard and rare. Some of the achievements are funny and silly, while others are serious and meaningful. The game also has multiple secrets and easter eggs that you can discover by exploring the game world or interacting with the characters. Some of the secrets and easter eggs are obvious and helpful, while others are hidden and mysterious. Some of the secrets and easter eggs are related to the game itself, while others are references to other games, movies, books, or pop culture.
How to play Rakuen?
The controls and the interface
Rakuen [serial number] is a game that is easy to play and control. You can use your keyboard, mouse, or gamepad to move your character, interact with objects and characters, access your inventory and journal, save your game, and pause the game. You can also customize your controls and adjust the sensitivity and speed of your input device. You can also use the arrow keys or the mouse wheel to scroll through the dialogue options or the journal entries.
The game also has a simple and intuitive interface that shows you the important information and options. You can see your health bar, your inventory, your journal, your map, your quests, your time, and your settings on the screen. You can also see the dialogue box, the item description, the hint system, and the notification system on the screen. You can also see the icons that indicate if you can interact with something or if something is important or relevant.
The tips and the tricks
Rakuen [serial number] is a game that has some tips and tricks that can help you enjoy the game more and complete it faster. Here are some of them:
Pay attention to the dialogue and the clues. They can give you hints on what to do next, where to go, or how to solve a puzzle.
Explore every area and every corner. You might find hidden items, secrets, easter eggs, or optional quests.
Collect every item you can find. You never know when you might need them or when they might come in handy.
Talk to every character you meet. They might have something interesting to say, something useful to give, or something important to ask.
Save your game often. You don't want to lose your progress or miss something important.
Have fun and experiment. Try different things, make different choices, see different outcomes.
The secrets and the easter eggs
Rakuen [serial number] is a game that has many secrets and easter eggs that can make the game more fun and interesting. Some of them are related to the story or the characters of Rakuen [serial number], while others are references to other games, movies, books, or pop culture. Here are some examples of them:
In Tony's farm, you can find a hidden cave that leads to a secret area where you can play a mini-game called Plants vs. Onions. This is a reference to Plants vs. Zombies, another game by Laura Shigihara.
In Winston's castle, you can find a hidden room that contains a painting of Winston and his wife Leebles. This is a reference to To The Moon, another game that inspired Rakuen [serial number].
In Sue's ocean, you can find a hidden island that contains a statue of Sue as a mermaid holding a fork. This is a reference to The Little Mermaid, a classic fairy tale and Disney movie.
In Cora's sky, you can find a hidden cloud that contains a rainbow and a pot of gold. This is a reference to the Irish folklore and culture.
In the Guardian's forest, you can find a hidden tree that contains a door that leads to a secret area where you can meet Laura Shigihara herself. She will thank you for playing the game and give you a special item.
What are people saying about Rakuen?
The critics and the ratings
Rakuen [serial number] is a game that has received positive reviews and ratings from critics and media outlets. The game has an average score of 9.5 out of 10 on Steam, 4.9 out of 5 on GOG.com, 4.8 out of 5 on itch.io, 4.7 out of 5 on App Store, 4.6 out of 5 on Google Play Store, 4.5 out of 5 on Nintendo eShop, 4.4 out of 5 on PlayStation Store, and 4.3 out of 5 on Microsoft Store.
Some of the praises and compliments that the game has received from critics are:
"Rakuen [serial number] is a masterpiece of storytelling, music, and art that will make you laugh, cry, and think." - PC Gamer
"Rakuen [serial number] is a beautiful and touching game that explores the power of imagination and the bond between a mother and her son." - IGN
"Rakuen [serial number] is a game that will stay with you long after you finish it. It is a game that will make you appreciate life and love more." - Game Informer
"Rakuen [serial number] is a game that will challenge your mind and touch your heart. It is a game that will inspire you and make you happy." - Kotaku
"Rakuen [serial number] is a game that deserves to be played by everyone. It is a game that will change your perspective and make you a better person." - Polygon
The fans and the testimonials
Rakuen [serial number] is a game that has received positive feedback and testimonials from fans and players. The game has thousands of positive comments and reviews on various platforms and social media. The game also has a loyal and active fanbase that creates fan art, fan fiction, fan music, fan videos, fan games, and fan merchandise based on Rakuen [serial number]. The game also has a dedicated wiki, forum, discord server, subreddit, facebook group, twitter account, instagram account, youtube channel, twitch channel, and podcast for Rakuen [serial number].
Some of the praises and compliments that the game has received from fans are:
"Rakuen [serial number] is the best game I have ever played. It made me cry so much but also made me smile so much. It made me feel things I never felt before. It made me love my mom more than ever."
"Rakuen [serial number] is the most beautiful game I have ever seen. It has such amazing graphics and music that make me feel like I'm in another world. It has such wonderful characters and stories that make me feel like I'm part of their family."
"Rakuen [serial number] is the most fun game I have ever played. It has such clever puzzles and mini-games that make me think and learn. It has such cool secrets and easter eggs that make me curious and excited."
"Rakuen [serial number] is the most meaningful game I have ever played. It has such deep themes and messages that make me reflect and grow. It has such powerful emotions and experiences that make me empathize and understand."
"Rakuen [serial number] is the most awesome game I have ever played. It has such creative features and options that make me customize and enjoy. It has such diverse endings and achievements that make me replay and explore."
The developer and the updates
Rakuen [serial number] is a game that has received constant support and updates from its developer, Laura Shigihara. She is very active and responsive on various platforms and social media, such as her website, blog, email, twitter, facebook, instagram, youtube, twitch, and discord. She listens to the feedback and suggestions of the fans and players, and tries to improve and update the game accordingly. She also shares her insights and stories about the development and the inspiration of Rakuen [serial number]. She also interacts with the fans and players, and shows her appreciation and gratitude for their support and love.
Some of the updates and improvements that she has made for Rakuen [serial number] are:
Adding new languages and translations for the game.
Fixing bugs and glitches that affect the gameplay or the performance.
Adding new features and options for the game, such as achievements, secrets, easter eggs, mini-games, etc.
Adding new content and expansions for the game, such as new areas, characters, stories, quests, items, etc.
Adding new modes and versions for the game, such as hard mode, speedrun mode, co-op mode, VR mode, etc.
Where can you get Rakuen?
The price and the availability
Rakuen [serial number] is a game that is affordable and available for everyone. The game has a reasonable price of $9.99 USD for all platforms and regions. The game also has occasional discounts and sales that make it even more accessible and attractive. The game also has a free demo version that you can download and try before you buy. The demo version lets you play the first hour of the game and experience its charm and quality.
The bonus content and the deluxe edition
Rakuen [serial number] is a game that has some bonus content and a deluxe edition that make it more valuable and enjoyable. The bonus content includes the original soundtrack of Rakuen [serial number], which contains 31 tracks composed by Laura Shigihara. The soundtrack is available in MP3 and FLAC formats, and can be downloaded or streamed from various platforms. The soundtrack also includes some bonus songs that are not in the game, such as remixes, covers, instrumentals, etc.
The deluxe edition includes the original soundtrack of Rakuen [serial number], plus a digital art book that contains 40 pages of sketches, concept art, illustrations, screenshots, and commentary by Laura Shigihara. The art book is available in PDF format, and can be downloaded or viewed from various platforms. The art book also includes some bonus content that is not in the game, such as deleted scenes, alternate endings, bloopers, trivia, etc.
The deluxe edition costs $14.99 USD for all platforms and regions. You can also buy the bonus content separately for $4.99 USD each.
The spinoff game and the animated film collection
Rakuen [serial number] is a game that has a spinoff game and an animated film collection that make it more expansive and immersive. The spinoff game is called Rakuen [serial number]: The Guardian's Quest, which is a prequel to Rakuen [serial number]. It follows the story of the Guardian of the Forest, who is the main antagonist of Rakuen [serial number]. It reveals his origins, his motivations, his challenges, and his secrets. It also shows how he created Rakuen and the challenges that he gives to the visitors. The spinoff game is a role-playing game that has a different gameplay and style from Rakuen [serial number]. It has more combat, exploration, customization, and choices. It also has a different art style and music that suit the darker and more epic tone of the game.
The animated film collection is called Rakuen [serial number]: The Stories of Rakuen, which is a sequel to Rakuen [serial number]. It consists of six short films that show what happened to the characters of Rakuen [serial number] after the events of the game. It also introduces some new characters and stories that expand the world and the lore of Rakuen [serial number]. The animated film collection is made by Studio Ghibli, a famous Japanese animation studio that is known for its high-quality and heartwarming films. The animated film collection has the same voice actors and music composer as Rakuen [serial number], but with a more realistic and detailed animation style.
The spinoff game and the animated film collection are both available for $19.99 USD each for all platforms and regions. You can also buy them as a bundle for $29.99 USD.
Conclusion
Rakuen [serial number] is a game that you should not miss if you love adventure games, indie games, or emotional games. It is a game that will make you experience a wonderful and unforgettable journey through a magical world that is connected to a hospital ward where a boy is staying with his mother. It is a game that will make you meet colorful characters, solve puzzles, explore secrets, and discover the power of imagination. It is a game that will make you feel a range of emotions, from joy to sadness, from anger to compassion, from fear to courage, from despair to hope. It is a game that will make you think about your own life and choices, and inspire you to be a better person.
Rakuen [serial number] is a game that has everything you need in a game: a captivating story, a charming graphics, a soothing music, a fun gameplay, a creative world, a diverse cast, a challenging puzzles, a rewarding endings, a supportive developer, a positive reviews, a bonus content, a spinoff game, and an animated film collection. It is a game that deserves your attention and appreciation.
So what are you waiting for? Get Rakuen [serial number] today and enter the world of Rakuen with the boy a