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Coffee Talk Episode 2: Hibiscus & Butterfly

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Coffee Talk Episode 2: Hibiscus & Butterfly
Item: Coffee Talk Episode 2: Hibiscus & Butterfly
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2023

GenresAdventure, Indie, Simulation, Interactive Movie, Visual Novel, Casual, Single Player, First Person Perspective

AvailableApr 20, 2023

PlatformPlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, Xbox Series X, PC

DeveloperToge Productions

Overview

Dust off your coffee machine and prepare your warmest smile to meet your customers again in the second episode of the much loved coffee brewing and heart-to-heart talking simulator; Coffee Talk Episode 2: Hibiscus & Butterfly.

Elsewhere

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Coffee Talk Episode 2: Hibiscus & Butterfly garners mostly positive reviews for its deep narrative and emotionally rich characters, tackling themes like identity and social issues. Critics praise its therapeutic atmosphere and interconnected storylines, but some argue it suffers from lack of structure and character depth. Despite mixed feedback, the game is seen as a strong sequel that effectively weaves personal and societal narratives, delivering a meaningful experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

83%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

17%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The overall sentiment regarding the story of Coffee Talk Episode 2: Hibiscus & Butterfly is predominantly positive, with many critics praising its narrative depth and emotional resonance. Reviewers like GGRecon highlight the game's ability to present nuanced, three-dimensional characters, making players genuinely care about their stories. Gfinity emphasizes the therapeutic atmosphere created through character conversations, while Finger Guns and Screen Rant commend the heartfelt dialogue and the exploration of significant themes such as identity, acceptance, and social issues. Critics like Pure Nintendo and GamingTrend appreciate the interconnected storylines that weave together personal challenges and broader societal themes, creating a rich tapestry of narratives that resonate with players. However, not all reviews are favorable, as some critics point out significant shortcomings in the storytelling. For instance, Switch Player describes the story as forgettable and lacking structure, which can hinder player engagement with the multiple characters. IGN Spain mentions that while the stories are human-like and relatable, some narratives feel incomplete, suggesting a lack of closure for certain character arcs. XboxEra criticizes the character development, stating that the writing is worse than the first game and that characters appear flat and one-dimensional. Additionally, TheXboxHub notes that the narrative lacks major milestones, which could detract from the overall impact of the story. Despite the mixed responses, the overall consensus among critics is that Coffee Talk Episode 2: Hibiscus & Butterfly successfully builds upon its predecessor, offering a blend of engaging character-driven narratives and social commentary. Many reviewers, such as But Why Tho? and INVEN, appreciate the game's ability to intertwine personal stories with broader social issues, reflecting contemporary dilemmas in a relatable manner. While some critics express concerns about pacing and character depth, the majority agree that the game provides a meaningful and enjoyable narrative experience, making it a worthwhile continuation of the series.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Coffee Talk Episode 2: Hibiscus & Butterfly delights with its charming blend of visual novel storytelling and barista simulation, earning praise for its engaging character interactions and new gameplay features like latte art. However, critics argue it suffers from a lack of depth, with simplistic mechanics and vague customer orders leading to frustration. While the cozy atmosphere appeals to fans, many feel the gameplay could use more complexity and meaningful choices, leaving players wanting a richer experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

22%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

75%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Coffee Talk Episode 2: Hibiscus & Butterfly has garnered a range of positive feedback from critics, highlighting its engaging blend of visual novel elements and barista simulation mechanics. Many reviewers appreciate the minimalistic yet charming approach to gameplay, where players primarily engage in conversations and drink-making. For instance, GGRecon noted the player agency in the drink-making portion, emphasizing the fun and engaging Challenge Mode. Critics like The Games Machine and TouchArcade also praised the combination of character interactions with drink preparation, suggesting that the new mechanics enhance the overall experience. Additionally, the ability to create latte art and the inclusion of new ingredients were seen as welcome additions that enrich the gameplay. However, several critics pointed out significant drawbacks that detract from the overall experience. A common sentiment is that the gameplay lacks depth and meaningful impact on the story, as highlighted by IGN Spain, who noted that while the focus on detail and experimentation is commendable, it ultimately feels shallow. Many reviews, including those from Gamer Escape and Pure Nintendo, expressed frustration with the simplicity of the mechanics, suggesting that the gameplay can feel tedious and uninspired at times. The lack of clear instructions and the occasional vagueness in customer orders were also mentioned by critics like But Why Tho?, leading to confusion and frustration during gameplay. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Coffee Talk Episode 2 offers a cozy, albeit simplistic, experience that appeals to fans of the first game while introducing new features. While many reviewers acknowledge the charm of its narrative-driven gameplay and the satisfying elements of drink-making, there is a shared concern regarding its limited mechanics and lack of deeper engagement. Critics like Shacknews and Softpedia noted that while the game retains its core appeal, it could benefit from more choices and incentives to enhance player involvement. Ultimately, Coffee Talk Episode 2 is viewed as a pleasant experience but one that may leave players wanting more in terms of depth and variety.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Coffee Talk Episode 2: Hibiscus & Butterfly shines with its charming pixel art and cozy visuals, celebrated for enhancing the game's atmosphere and emotional depth. Critics praise the vibrant character designs and inviting color palette, but some note a lack of innovation from the first game, with certain character designs feeling outdated. While the visuals are largely a highlight, some players may yearn for more evolution in the art style. Overall, it’s a visually appealing experience, but not without hints of stagnation.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

59%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

41%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The overall sentiment regarding the graphics and visual design of Coffee Talk Episode 2: Hibiscus & Butterfly is predominantly positive. Critics have praised the game's pixel art style for its charm and expressiveness, with many noting that it contributes significantly to the cozy atmosphere. Gfinity highlighted how the visually appealing drinks inspire players to experiment with their own tea-brewing, while IGN Spain emphasized the warm ambiance created by the pixel art. Reviewers like TouchArcade and Gamer Escape also appreciated the detailed character designs and the vibrant color palette, which effectively enhances the game's narrative and emotional depth. The addition of new elements, such as the Stories on Tomodachill mentioned by GGRecon, further enriches the visual experience, making it feel fresh and engaging. However, some critics pointed out certain shortcomings in the game's visual design. While Multiplayer.it acknowledged the excellent visual construction, they noted that some character designs had not been updated since the first game, which could detract from the overall experience. But Why Tho? mentioned that while the pixel art brings emotion to the characters, some sequences fail to engage the reader effectively. Additionally, WellPlayed observed a lack of significant changes from the original game, which may leave some players wanting more innovation in the visual department. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Coffee Talk Episode 2 successfully retains the charming pixel art style of its predecessor, creating a cozy and immersive experience for players. Most reviewers agree that the visuals are a strong point of the game, with notable mentions of the expressive character designs and appealing animations. However, there are hints of stagnation in character design and visual evolution, as noted by critics like God is a Geek and WellPlayed. Overall, while the game excels in creating a visually pleasing atmosphere, some players may desire more innovation in its artistic direction.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Coffee Talk Episode 2: Hibiscus & Butterfly boasts a praised lo-fi soundtrack and immersive sound design that creates a cozy café atmosphere, enhancing the gaming experience. Critics highlight the soothing beats and ambient sounds, although some note issues with repetitiveness and forgettable tracks, along with a lack of voice acting. Despite these drawbacks, the overall consensus is that the music and sound effectively contribute to the game's charm and emotional depth.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

70%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

30%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The sound design and music of Coffee Talk Episode 2: Hibiscus & Butterfly have been widely praised across various reviews, highlighting the game's ability to create a relaxing atmosphere. Critics such as Gfinity and GGRecon commend the chill lo-fi beats that permeate the game, contributing to its low-stakes vibe and enhancing the overall experience. Reviewers like Finger Guns and NintendoWorldReport emphasize how the soothing soundtrack complements the storytelling and fits seamlessly into the café setting, making it an inviting space for players. The inclusion of ambient sounds, such as rain and coffee shop noises, further enriches the immersive experience, as noted by Generación Xbox and Digitally Downloaded. Overall, the music and sound effects are seen as integral to the game's charm, with many critics, including Shacknews and RPG Fan, asserting that the soundtrack is not only enjoyable within the game but also worth listening to outside of it. However, some critics have pointed out certain drawbacks regarding the sound design and music. IGN Spain notes that while the lo-fi music complements the game, it can become repetitive over time, which may detract from the overall experience. Similarly, Gamer Escape mentions that while the music fits the atmosphere, none of the tracks stand out significantly, leading to a sense of forgettability. The lack of voice acting, highlighted by Gamer Escape and Softpedia, is also seen as a missed opportunity to enhance character interactions and bring the narrative to life. Additionally, TheXboxHub suggests that the soundtrack, while touching, may not match the impact of the first game, indicating a potential decline in musical innovation. Despite these criticisms, the overall consensus among reviewers is that the sound design and music in Coffee Talk Episode 2: Hibiscus & Butterfly effectively create a cozy and relaxing ambiance that enhances the player's experience. The majority of critics agree that the lo-fi soundtrack is well-suited to the game's café setting, contributing to its charm and emotional depth. Critics like XboxEra and TouchArcade emphasize the quality of the music, while others appreciate the ability to unlock and change the soundtrack based on in-game choices, as noted by GameGrin and RPG Fan. Ultimately, while there are some concerns about repetitiveness and the lack of standout tracks, the general sentiment is one of appreciation for the soothing soundscape that defines this unique gaming experience.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

"Coffee Talk Episode 2: Hibiscus & Butterfly" faces a major split in critical reception over its voice acting—some praise the warm narration that enriches the experience, while many others slam its entirely text-based format as a significant flaw that detracts from emotional engagement. The lack of voice work risks alienating players who crave a more immersive narrative, underscoring the crucial role of audio elements in gaming.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

83%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

17%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The opinions regarding the voice acting in "Coffee Talk Episode 2: Hibiscus & Butterfly" reveal a significant divide among critics, with a few highlighting the positive aspects of the game's audio presentation. GAMINGbible, for instance, praises the game for being fully voiced, noting that the narrator serves as a "warm presence" throughout the experience. This sentiment suggests that when voice acting is present, it enhances the game's atmosphere, potentially drawing players deeper into the narrative and emotional landscape of the story. Such a warm and engaging narration can elevate the overall experience, making it more immersive for those who appreciate auditory storytelling. Conversely, a substantial number of critics express disappointment regarding the lack of voice acting in the game. Reviewers from Games.cz, Xbox Tavern, GameCritics, Softpedia, and WellPlayed all point out that the game is entirely text-based, which they believe detracts from the overall experience. For example, Softpedia notes that the absence of voice work may limit the emotional impact of character interactions, a critical aspect of engaging storytelling. This consensus among multiple critics indicates a significant gap in the game's audio design that could alienate players who find reading cumbersome or who seek a more dynamic engagement with the characters. Overall, the consensus among critics leans towards a negative perception of the voice acting in "Coffee Talk Episode 2: Hibiscus & Butterfly." While GAMINGbible's positive remarks highlight the potential benefits of voice acting, the overwhelming feedback from other critics emphasizes the absence of this feature as a major flaw. The lack of voiced lines seems to hinder the emotional depth and connection that players could experience, suggesting that the game may not fully meet the expectations of those who value voice acting in narrative-driven titles. This divide highlights the importance of audio elements in gaming and how they can significantly influence player engagement and satisfaction.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Coffee Talk Episode 2: Hibiscus & Butterfly is praised for its strong technical performance across PS5, Nintendo Switch, Xbox Series X, and PC, with smooth gameplay and stability highlighted by critics. Minor PC issues, such as monitor resolution recognition and a game-breaking bug, exist but are manageable and don't detract from the overall positive reception. Developers have effectively optimized the game, ensuring a seamless experience for most players.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

71%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

29%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of Coffee Talk Episode 2: Hibiscus & Butterfly has generally received positive feedback across various gaming platforms. Critics such as The Games Machine, who played on PS5, noted that the game runs smoothly without any issues, indicating a solid technical foundation. Similarly, TouchArcade praised the Nintendo Switch version for its performance, highlighting that it runs without issues and even preferred it for its superior screen and battery life compared to other devices. On Xbox Series X, Games.cz reported no specific issues regarding technical performance or stability, further reinforcing the notion that the game delivers a smooth experience on this platform. Additionally, both INVEN and PC Invasion noted a lack of technical performance concerns on PC, with the latter emphasizing that the game's small indie title nature and 2D pixelated art style contribute to its stability. Despite the overall positive sentiment, there were some criticisms regarding technical performance, particularly on PC. GamingTrend pointed out a technical issue related to the game not recognizing the primary monitor's resolution, although it was expected to be resolved in the release version. TheGamer mentioned a single game-breaking bug that could be fixed by starting a new save, which, while not ideal, was a manageable issue. These concerns indicate that while the majority of the experience is smooth, there are some technical hiccups that players on PC might encounter. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Coffee Talk Episode 2: Hibiscus & Butterfly performs well technically across all platforms, with the majority praising its stability and smooth gameplay. The positive remarks from critics like The Games Machine and TouchArcade highlight a successful execution of the game’s technical aspects. While there are minor issues noted, particularly on PC, they do not overshadow the overall positive reception. This indicates that the developers have effectively optimized the game for various platforms, ensuring that most players will enjoy a seamless experience.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Coffee Talk Episode 2: Hibiscus & Butterfly shines with its Endless and Challenge modes, recipe unlocking, and branching narratives that entice players to dig deeper. Critics praise its narrative richness and replayability, but caution that its short length and repetitive conversations could dampen long-term engagement. While fans of the series will likely find value in revisiting, the game may not hold universal appeal for repeated playthroughs. Overall, it’s a mixed bag—enjoyable, but with potential pitfalls in replay motivation.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

32%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

68%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The opinions regarding the replay value of Coffee Talk Episode 2: Hibiscus & Butterfly highlight several positive aspects that contribute to its appeal for players. Critics like GGRecon and The Games Machine commend the inclusion of modes such as Endless Mode and Challenge Mode, which offer players opportunities to engage with the game beyond the main storyline. The ability to unlock various recipes and explore different drink combinations, as noted by Finger Guns and GAMINGbible, also enhances the replay experience. Moreover, the branching narratives and multiple endings, emphasized by Pure Nintendo and Player 2, encourage players to revisit the game to uncover all possible outcomes and character interactions, making it a rich experience for those who appreciate narrative depth. However, some critics express concerns regarding the limitations of the game's replay value. IGN Spain points out that while the game invites revisits, the reasons to do so are somewhat scant beyond achieving all achievements. Similarly, Games.cz notes that the game's relatively short length and repetitive nature of conversations may detract from long-term engagement. Critics like Softpedia echo this sentiment, suggesting that while there are elements that promote replayability, the limited gameplay could hinder sustained interest. This sentiment is further reinforced by Gamer Escape, who mentions that tedious gameplay might deter players from wanting to replay the game. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that Coffee Talk Episode 2: Hibiscus & Butterfly offers a balanced mix of replayability through its various modes, branching narratives, and achievements. While many reviewers, including Shacknews and Noisy Pixel, appreciate the depth and opportunities for exploration, there remains a cautionary note regarding the game's potential repetitiveness and the limited reasons for replaying beyond initial exploration. Critics generally agree that the game is enjoyable and has replay value, particularly for fans of the series, but may not be compelling enough for all players to engage with multiple times.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

70%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

30%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

Coffee Talk Episode 2: Hibiscus & Butterfly has garnered a generally positive reception from critics, with many praising its warm, inviting atmosphere and engaging narrative. Reviewers like Gfinity and GGRecon emphasize the game's ability to evoke a sense of nostalgia and comfort, likening the experience to a "warm hug from old friends." The game is celebrated for its charming characters, relaxing gameplay, and the continuation of heartfelt conversations that fans loved in the first installment. Critics such as Screen Rant and TouchArcade highlight the game's rich storytelling and character development, making it a delightful pick for fans of cozy games. Additionally, the visual aesthetics and soundtracks are often mentioned as standout features, contributing to the overall immersive experience. However, some reviewers express concerns regarding the game's lack of innovation and depth compared to its predecessor. IGN Spain and Multiplayer.it note that while the game is enjoyable, it does not introduce significant new gameplay mechanics or characters, which may leave some players wanting more. XboxEra and TheXboxHub echo this sentiment, suggesting that the sequel leans too heavily on its established formula without offering enough fresh content to elevate the experience. Critics like Gamer Escape point out that while the narrative and characters are strong, the gameplay can feel tedious and lacks the impact that would keep players fully engaged. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Coffee Talk Episode 2: Hibiscus & Butterfly is a charming and enjoyable continuation of the series, particularly for fans of the original game. Many reviewers, including But Why Tho? and GameCritics, appreciate the emotional depth and relatable themes, even if they acknowledge the game's shortcomings in innovation. The game is widely recommended for those seeking a relaxing visual novel experience, with critics like RPG Fan and Shacknews noting its ability to deliver heartfelt storytelling and engaging characters. While it may not break new ground, the sequel successfully retains the essence of what made the first game beloved, making it a worthwhile experience for its target audience.

TL;DR

Coffee Talk Episode 2: Hibiscus & Butterfly charms with its warm atmosphere and engaging storytelling, earning praise for its nostalgic feel and lovable characters. Critics celebrate its visual appeal and soundtracks, making it a cozy choice for fans. However, some find it lacking innovation and depth, as it sticks too closely to its predecessor's formula. While enjoyable, it may leave players wanting more. Overall, it’s a delightful experience for fans of the original, even if it doesn't push boundaries.

MONSTER

Reviews

67 reviews found

100

Hey Poor Player

Nintendo Switch

Apr 25, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Coffee Talk Episode 2: Hibiscus & Butterfly is a perfect game with a unique flavor.

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100

Player 2

Xbox Series X

Apr 19, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Coffee Talk Episode 2: Hibiscus and Butterfly is a special and memorable game that builds upon the appeal of its predecessor. It offers a unique experience with a range of themes and foreign yet familiar characters. The game's connection to the previous title's writer adds a bittersweet touch. The reviewer highly recommends the game.

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RPG Fan

Apr 19, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Coffee Talk Episode 2: Hibiscus & Butterfly builds beautifully upon the first game, offering an excellent slice-of-life narrative with fun interactive moments and a surprising amount of replayability. It is a refill worth savoring.

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GamingTrend

Apr 19, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Coffee Talk Episode 2: Hibiscus & Butterfly is a wonderful follow-up to the original, retaining its charm while expanding on the story and characters. It offers a chill and touching experience with plenty of content to explore.

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Digitally Downloaded

Apr 28, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The game is warm, grounded in realism despite its fantasy world, with an amazing soundtrack and great drinks to learn about. The characters have unique personalities and the game is a wonderful, feel-good visual novel.

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TouchArcade

Nintendo Switch

Apr 24, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Coffee Talk Episode 2 is a solid sequel that builds on the original, making it an easy recommendation for fans of relaxing games and character-driven narratives.

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Noisy Pixel

Apr 19, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Coffee Talk Episode 2: Hibiscus & Butterfly is a delightful game that builds on the first entry. The amount of content is worth the price and the game is a brew to savor.

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Pure Nintendo

Nintendo Switch

May 25, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Coffee Talk Episode 2: Hibiscus & Butterfly is a refreshing visual novel with relatable characters and intertwining stories. Great for fans of the genre.

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GameCritics

Jul 20, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The game delivers new stories, characters, and gameplay mechanics that blend well together, resulting in an enjoyable experience.

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NintendoWorldReport

Nintendo Switch

Apr 19, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review concludes that Coffee Talk Episode 2: Hibiscus & Butterfly is a chill and peaceful experience that adds enough new mechanics to freshen up the gameplay. It also expresses a desire to play more episodes in the future.

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