Coffee Talk: Episode 2 - Hibiscus & Butterfly Review (Amjara)
This game is wonderful, just as good as the first one, if not better in terms of writing. Having the foundation of the first game to use as a stepping stone really helped elevate the writing and expansion of returning characters. Here is my review after my first play-through of the game.
I normally review games looking at both negatives (the bad) and the positives (the goods) and honestly I only have one negative about this game and it has nothing to do with game play. It is the title.
I have seen many wonder if this is a dlc to the first game rather than a stand alone game due to how they titled it. The "episode 2" part needs to go. Just Coffee Talk 2: Hibiscus & Butterfly" would have been better. The episode part just throws people off.
And on the other end there's really so much positive to say about the game. The writing in this one is outstanding. The artwork, even though in the style of the first, looks just as wonderful if not better too! I love making drinks and guessing the drink combo's that the character orders. Also like the first game you input your name at the start of the game and the characters throughout the game refer to you by your name. A nice little touch to keep you immersed. You never see yourself in the game, it is always from your perspective. However this game had a few comments about our character that made it very interesting about who WE are.
In the second game you can influence the story more than the first game. By doing certain actions, like getting their drinks wrong or right, or forgetting to give them certain items, you will have some different outcomes in how the story progresses for good or bad for some of the characters. You may even stop seeing customers if you mess up their drinks too often! Or if you give them the right drink or the right item you will see extra story content for some of the customers.
I had no crashes and the game supports widescreen. All you really need is your mouse to play. There is some light comedy, some heartfelt moments and some serious undertones to some of the characters' stories. A great game told through the stories of your customers as you, the ever present, caring barista listens on.
A hug of appreciation for Mohammad Fahmi (may he rest in peace) and his entire team for forging ahead to bring the world of Coffee Talk to the fans again. It was well worth the wait and I think he would be so proud of the final game and the entire team. I recommend both games, and honestly encourage everyone to start with playing the first one. For those who are returning to the world of Coffee Talk, enjoy your adventure! ☕