Developer: Studio Élan
Publisher: Sometimes You
Genre: Visual Novel
Reviewed For Nintendo Switch
Also Available On: PlayStation, Xbox, PC
Please Be Happy is a cozy, romantic visual novel that blends slice-of-life storytelling with gentle fantasy elements. It follows Miho, a fox spirit, who has spent her life surviving on the fringes of society. After years of being forgotten by everyone she meets, her life changes when two women remember her name and extend their kindness.
Please Be Happy is about more than romance. Miho’s story focuses on learning to live rather than simply survive, and the game treats her relationships with Juliet and Aspen as natural extensions of that growth. Both characters bring different energy to Miho’s life. Juliet is a composed librarian, while Aspen is an eager barista with dreams of becoming an author. Whichever route players choose, the romance develops gradually with genuine roots of friendship.
The game does well to avoid cliches. There are no love triangles or ridiculous misunderstandings, and the game is filled with positivity. All of the characters feel like adults, which helps keep the tone mature and grounded. I just published my reviews of Him, the Smile & Bloom, and SINce Memories: Off the Starry Sky earlier this month, and I complimented how sincere they are with adult characters. Getting this kind of visual novel multiple times in such a short amount of time is a treat. There isn’t much fan service, and the romantic elements feel sincere and never get uncomfortable.
The game plays like a traditional visual novel, with occasional choices that determine Miho’s path toward either Juliet or Aspen. Each route offers two endings. Throughout the story, Miho also gets free time to explore Wellington, leading to side stories with supporting characters.
Visually, Please Be Happy is lovely. The character art is expressive, and the backgrounds bring the city of Wellington to life. Studio Élan’s art direction is a perfect match for the tone of the game, making each scene feel warm and inviting. The soundtrack complements the visuals perfectly, with gentle melodies that enhance the game’s emotional moments. Full English voice acting brings extra depth to the story, and the performances from the main cast are consistently strong.
While the pace may be too relaxed for some, those looking for a cozy, character-driven story will find plenty to love in Please Be Happy.
A review copy of this game was provided to Sequential Planet by the publisher. Receiving a copy did not influence the opinions expressed in this review.
