Lyre

Admittedly I do not frequent works of such type, their split attention between the written and the visual has a tendency to produce results that excel in neither department. And in a way Lyre does not break that mould, however it does both well enough to compel an enjoyable experience. In terms of artwork, it is neither ground-breaking nor lacklustre. Sufficient would be the best way to describe it but in the good way, spending on it as much as it needs to aid what really matters: the story. Backgrounds are well crafted, colourful and describe their environment and its feel at a glance. Character design does not fall behind either, creating a varied and distinct cast that never leaves identity uncertain. However, the text box has a tendency to either obscure detail or hide character altogether. Further the design of some of the cast (notably our love companion) has a tendency fall into that stereotypical *slightly meaty yet still very buff furry* that one thinks of at the mention of anthropomorphic homoerotica. A few major scenes have their dedicated stills, be it of battle or intimacy, elevating the moment. Animation is found seldomly, mostly for illustration of environment or weather, but in such cases, it does make for quite the dramatic effect that compels the story further. Perhaps the best part of it is its consistency. Whilst some larger compositions later on improve in quality, it never does make any part feel legacy, nor do character and background produce rejection. Sound design is mostly music, with largely one or two track accompanying the whole work, which can feel rather repetitive by a couple chapters in. But the VN does at least make use of its interruptions and silences for some lovely dramatic effect, so not all is lost. As for the story itself, it is simple but enjoyable. It does not try to reinvent the whole literary conventions and seems rather aware of its limits, but it does mean it never falls below its baseline. Without spoiling anything, it is a quite light-hearted fantasy (by my literary standards at least) story, which manages connect both drama and romance. It is noteworthy though that the erotic is only exists as part of a developing relationship, not as a central pillar of the narrative. The writing's strongpoint is definitely lie in its romantic pursuit and creation of relationships that present themselves clear as to why both parties entail in it. Its weakness is its opposite: confrontation and formality. More prominent in the latter half, some feel rather held back if not childish, but in part it lies in the work's desire not to taint itself too much with it. Lack of formalities on the other hand is felt much more. Dealing with hierarchies and blood heritages, it is all too quick to excuse itself of any such formal dealings; but at least the writer seems aware of the fact and don't try to force something doomed to fail. Overall, it is a well-rounded VN with all its components working together to create an experience enjoyable to even those not frequenting the media. Seeking a more story and romance centric VN, Lyre is a worthwhile try, however it does not fit the common frequency of the erotic that some may expect on this site.