Dear Me, I was… Review: Arc System Works Delivers an Unforgettable Interactive Adventure on Nintendo Switch 2

Dear Me, I was… Review: Arc System Works Delivers an Unforgettable Interactive Adventure on Nintendo Switch 2 In the ever-evolving landscape of Nintendo Switch 2 exclusives, Arc System Works has carved a unique place with its latest title, Dear Me, I was….

Designed as a short yet emotionally charged interactive adventure, the game features the celebrated art of Taisuke Kanasaki, known for his work on Nintendo DS classics Trace Memory and Hotel Dusk, as well as for serving as Art Director on Another Code: Recollection.

Released during a particularly crowded launch window, Dear Me, I was… stands out thanks to its remarkable storytelling, distinctive watercolor visuals, and powerful soundtrack. Developed by Arc System Works and exclusive to Nintendo Switch 2, Dear Me, I was… invites players to experience moments from a woman's life, conveyed without dialogue or voice acting.

The emotional narrative is instead evoked through masterful animation, music, and a uniquely expressive art style that combines watercolor painting with rotoscoping animation.

As Kanasaki’s visuals unfold across each chapter, players witness key memories—family bonds, friendships, the passage of time—portrayed with subtlety and grace.

Significant story moments are accentuated by the shifting use of color, with subdued greyscale marking more somber sequences and vibrant hues celebrating moments of joy. Reflecting on the development and impact of Dear Me, I was…, Arc System Works emphasized the importance of its message: it is never too late to pursue one’s passion and embrace life’s journey.

The game’s pacing intentionally mirrors the way time seems to accelerate as we age, providing players with both introspective narratives and thoughtful interactive elements.

Small details, like the changing coffee mug used by the protagonist over the years, add depth and realism to the unfolding story. Dear Me, I was… finds its closest comparison in acclaimed interactive experiences such as Florence, but its narrative strength and visual style make it an essential title for fans of visual novels and story-driven games.

While offering a shorter playtime, the game manages to evoke genuine emotion and provide a reflective experience that lingers well after the final chapter.

Upon completing the main narrative and epilogue, players are rewarded with a gallery collection, granting further appreciation for the game’s art. In terms of hardware integration, Dear Me, I was… leverages the Nintendo Switch 2’s capabilities, offering both docked and handheld play modes.

The touch controls shine in handheld mode, providing an intimate and personal connection to the story—not unlike reading a cherished graphic novel.

Docked mode utilizes analog and button controls; however, mouse controls, particularly during interactive meal scenes, could benefit from greater precision and customization options.

Despite minor control issues, the overall gameplay experience is seamless and engaging. What sets Dear Me, I was… apart is its exceptional musical score, predominantly piano-led, which dynamically shifts to include other instruments as the story demands.

The combination of stirring audio, expressive animation, and meaningful visual storytelling culminates in a truly memorable title exclusive to Nintendo Switch 2. Dear Me, I was… is not only highly recommended for fans of visual novels and emotional adventures but also stands as a testament to Arc System Works’ and Taisuke Kanasaki’s commitment to innovative, artful game design.

Its impact is profound enough to leave players wishing for a dedicated artbook or access to the soundtrack outside the game—a fitting testament to its quality and emotional resonance. Version Tested: Nintendo Switch 2 Score: 10/10

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