Ururun Quest: Koiyuuki Explained

Ururun Quest Koiyuuki
Developer:Vingt-et-un Systems
Publisher:D3
Genre:Love Simulation+RPG
Modes:Single player
Platforms:PlayStation 2

is a fully voiced Japanese PS2 videogame classified as an 'Onna no Ko Senyou (Girl-targeted) Love Simulation+RPG' by its developer. It was released in 2005 and marketed as the first 'RPG targeted towards girls'. The player acts as the main character, Ruri, while she adventures around her world with her friends and finding new companions.

Gameplay

UQ's gameplay is mostly RPG. The most time is spent leveling characters in random battles on an overworld map and in dungeons, leading up to difficult boss battles. The fighting party consists of three characters from a possible six characters at any one time.

There is also a simulation element seen in a cooking minigame while resting, and character interaction. Dialogue and actions chosen while resting outside or while in cities will affect the relationship of the main character with the other characters. When the relationship develops, the other characters will show their bond in battle by protecting or helping the main character. The relationship level also affects story events that occur while resting and in some dungeons.

Plot

Ruri, Tsukishiro, and Shuka are childhood friends in the city of Soi. As a summer school project, Ruri decides to explore the history of their land. Tsukishiro and Shuka decide to go with her to protect her, since outside the town monsters attack travelers. As the story progresses, they travel to other continents using special map pieces and gain companions. They learn that the fog that covers the land, making it difficult to navigate, is caused by demons. Ruri decides to fight the demons and get rid of the fog.

Characters

Reception

When UQ was first released, it was not very well received. Critics said that though it was billed as a love simulation RPG, the RPG elements dominated too much, and players that were used to other love simulations would find it too long to replay to get more characters. It was also criticized that the RPG was not up to the standard of contemporary RPGs, with an unforgiving save feature, slow traveling, and a confusing overworld map.

When it was later released cheaply as part of the Simple Ultimate series, opinion seemed to improve, since the game was a good value as a budget title.

Related products

A comic was also released as Ururun Quest Koiyuuki Anthology Comic from Enterbrain under the B's Log Comics label on September 30, 2005.