Alice no Yakata

About

Alice no Yakata is a 1990 visual novel from Alicesoft that follows a high school romance with a competitive twist. The story centers on a girl whose school friend Mami grows closer to a boy she's interested in. Determined not to fall behind, the protagonist navigates shifting social dynamics through branching dialogue and relationship choices. The game blends dating sim elements with narrative-driven decision-making, offering multiple paths influenced by player interactions. A bonus scenario titled "Sentimental Season" adds extra story content exploring seasonal themes and character development. While not widely discussed in modern circles, this early visual novel stands out for its focus on relatable teenage tensions and early examples of interactive romance mechanics. Its PC-9800 and FM Towns origins place it among Japan's first wave of graphical adventure games, appealing to fans of retro dating sims and historical gaming curios. The competitive love triangle premise remains straightforward but effective, relying on personality clashes and schoolyard rivalries to drive its modest but charming plot.