GP: "Visual novels made outside of Japan are usually unheard of. And even when we do see them, players of the genre typically dismiss them without a second thought. It’s usually due to misconceptions that non-Japanese visual novels can’t be any good. Katawa Shoujo is one example of an American-made visual novel that pushes aside that fallacy – though it’s obvious that it draws from how Japanese visual novels present themselves and still very much feels like one (not that it’s a bad thing!). Cinders, on the other hand, is something that’s completely different.
That fact is especially evident in its art style, among other elements. Does that necessarily mean it is good and makes it a game worth checking out, however?"
Michael Kitchin writes, "Cinders has a charm to it that I've rarely found in the visual novels I've played. The writing manages to contextualise and add to a familiar story whilst allowing the main character to branch in interesting ways. It's a shame the story doesn't break completely from the source material but there's some intriguing ideas on display, here. The detailed, animated backgrounds help create a lively setting and the music maintains an airy feel. It's a striking effort that largely succeeds."
Dave writes: "Approach Cinders on Xbox One with caution. If you like a bit of melodrama in your life, and the prospect of a well-crafted, alternate take on Cinderella sounds appealing, this glass slipper may well fit."
Neil writes: "It's safe to say that visual novels have taken off in a big way over recent years, with a whole multitude of offerings available in the genre, giving players the chance to sit down, controller in hand, and take in a number of wonderful tales. But perhaps none of them have been able to deliver the ultimate tale, until now, as Cinders comes to Xbox One and PS4."
