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Goodbye Volcano High

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Goodbye Volcano High
Item: Goodbye Volcano High
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2023

GenresAdventure, Indie, Interactive Movie, Visual Novel, Music and Dance, Drama, Single Player

AvailableAug 29, 2023

PlatformPC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5

DeveloperKO-OP

Overview

Fang is a typical 18-year-old dinosaur: they’re more concerned about their band going viral than they are about what happens after graduation. But they’re about to have much bigger problems. Will they find time to figure themselves out? Can they balance a potential apocalypse and a budding romance? During hard times, what do we owe each other? Goodbye Volcano High is a cinematic narrative adventure about the beginning of a love story... and the end of an era.

Elsewhere

7.6

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

A heartfelt, genre-blending teen drama drowning in its own apocalyptic stakes, Goodbye Volcano High shines with emotional resonance and unique charm but falters under uneven pacing and underdeveloped tension, leaving critics divided between its tender heart and structural shortcomings.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

73%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

27%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The story of Goodbye Volcano High is widely praised for its emotional depth, unique premise, and exploration of relatable themes. Critics highlight its focus on teenage identity, friendship, and the tension between personal aspirations and existential threats. IGN Italia describes it as a “unique and substantial teen drama” set in a technologically advanced Jurassic world, while Push Square lauds its “impeccable writing” and “emotional wallops,” emphasizing the strength of its character development. The narrative’s blend of coming-of-age storytelling with an impending asteroid apocalypse resonates strongly, as noted by Siliconera, who calls it “heartfelt” and “cozy,” celebrating themes of friendship and resilience. RPG Fan applauds its exploration of inclusivity and trauma, while The So Videogames Podcast praises the believable setting of Caldera and Fang’s journey of self-discovery. These elements collectively create a poignant, character-driven experience that many critics find compelling. However, several reviewers point to pacing issues, narrative inconsistencies, and a lack of stakes despite the apocalyptic backdrop. Hey Poor Player criticizes the story for “lacking substance” and dragging at times, while Multiplayer.it notes “narrative inconsistencies.” Wccftech argues that the game’s low-stakes approach undermines its potential, calling it “unrealistic” given the asteroid threat. GameCrate mentions the story “loses its edge” midway through its five-hour runtime, and TheGamer finds the writing “trite” and lacking nuance. Additionally, New Game Network points to “light writing” and improved pacing as needed. These critiques suggest that while the game’s emotional core is strong, its execution occasionally falters in maintaining tension or delivering a more impactful narrative arc. Overall, the critical reception of Goodbye Volcano High leans positive, with most reviewers appreciating its heartfelt storytelling, unique setting, and nuanced character dynamics. While some critics like IGN Italia, Push Square, and Siliconera celebrate its emotional resonance and creative vision, others such as TheGamer and Wccftech express disappointment in its structural shortcomings. The consensus seems to be that the game succeeds as a tender, character-driven exploration of adolescence and existential uncertainty, even if it occasionally struggles with pacing or depth. Its blend of teen drama and apocalyptic stakes creates a memorable experience for many, though not without room for improvement in balancing ambition with execution.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Goodbye Volcano High delivers a raw, emotionally charged narrative anchored by deep character choices and intimate storytelling, but its rhythm mechanics feel clunky and undercooked, undermining an otherwise heartfelt, bingeable experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

16%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

76%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Goodbye Volcano High is widely praised for its unique focus on dialogue-driven storytelling and emotional depth, with many critics highlighting its innovative approach to character development. Reviewers like IGN Italia and Press Start Australia commend the game’s ability to let players shape Fang’s thoughts and relationships through branching choices, creating a sense of intimacy and realism akin to a "bingeable animated serial." The rhythm-based musical sections, while not central, are noted for their creativity and integration with the narrative—RPG Fan and Wccftech praise their simplicity and effectiveness in reflecting the protagonist’s struggles. Additionally, Player 2 and Multiplayer.it appreciate the game’s emphasis on dialogue mechanics, which offer insight into Fang’s psyche and foster a strong emotional connection to the story. However, several critics point out flaws in the gameplay mechanics, particularly the rhythm segments and control schemes. Push Square and Digital Spy criticize the timing issues and clunky UI in the musical sections, with the latter noting unsynced button presses and a lack of subtitles during songs. Checkpoint Gaming and GameCrate also mention frustrations with joystick controls during rhythm challenges, which can feel unwieldy. Meanwhile, New Game Network and Slant Magazine argue that dialogue choices have limited impact on the overall narrative, with many paths leading to similar outcomes. These critiques suggest that while the game’s core mechanics are creative, they occasionally hinder immersion or feel underdeveloped compared to traditional rhythm games. Despite these shortcomings, the consensus among critics leans positive, emphasizing Goodbye Volcano High’s strengths as a narrative-driven experience. Hey Poor Player and SpazioGames acknowledge its blend of interactive storytelling and musical elements, even if the rhythm sections are uneven. The game’s focus on character relationships and emotional resonance—highlighted by WellPlayed and RPG Fan—resonates strongly, with many praising its ability to capture the complexities of teenage life. While some critics, like Gamers Heroes, find the gameplay minimalistic, others see it as a deliberate design choice that prioritizes storytelling over traditional mechanics. Overall, the game is viewed as a distinctive and heartfelt experience, even if its experimental approach to gameplay occasionally falls short of expectations.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Praise for vibrant visuals, creative character design, and immersive aesthetic; critics note stiff animation and technical glitches, but these are overshadowed by charm. Overall, it's celebrated for artistic ambition despite imperfections.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

64%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

32%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The majority of reviewers praised Goodbye Volcano High for its vibrant, imaginative visual design and character artistry. Hardcore Gamer highlighted the "terrific character designs" blending dinosaur species with bold color palettes, while IGN Italia emphasized how the game’s unique communication methods and expressive characters create an immersive narrative experience. Player 2 and Press Start Australia lauded the "wonderfully animated and polished" visuals, with the latter comparing it to a Netflix series due to its cinematic quality. The cartoon-style aesthetic was consistently praised for its creativity, with Multiplayer.it noting high-quality character and environment design, and SpazioGames appreciating its inclusive approach. Critics like GameCrate and Gamereactor UK highlighted the game’s "stunning animation" and detailed backgrounds, while Checkpoint Gaming celebrated the anthropomorphic dinosaurs and aesthetic variety. These reviews collectively underscore a strong appreciation for the game’s artistic vision and visual storytelling. However, some critics pointed out technical and stylistic shortcomings. Hey Poor Player found the character designs "garish and unappealing," while Siliconera criticized the "rigid posture and stiff animation" reminiscent of early 2000s webcomics. God is a Geek noted that certain scenes lacked animation, and New Game Network mentioned issues with scene transitions and UI overlap. Wccftech acknowledged "limited animation" despite sharp visuals, and WellPlayed admitted to technical bugs like audio-visual glitches. These critiques suggest that while the game’s art style is distinctive, its execution in some areas—particularly animation fluidity and polish—fell short of expectations, potentially detracting from the overall experience for some players. Despite these criticisms, the consensus among reviewers leans overwhelmingly positive, with most praising the game’s unique visual identity and emotional resonance. The blend of cartoonish aesthetics, vibrant color schemes, and creative character designs created a memorable atmosphere that many felt elevated the narrative. While technical imperfections and animation limitations were noted, they were often overshadowed by the game’s charm and artistic ambition. Critics like RPG Fan and GameGrin emphasized the "visually stunning" and "phenomenal" quality of the visuals, reinforcing that Goodbye Volcano High succeeds as a visually driven experience. The mixed feedback highlights areas for improvement but does little to diminish the general acclaim for its creative and immersive design.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Critics hailed Goodbye Volcano High's explosive indie rock/pop soundtrack as its beating heart, with Worm Drama’s tracks and rhythm mechanics driving emotion and narrative. IGN Italia called it a co-protagonist, while DualSense integration heightened immersion—though minor issues like subtitles and voice acting lingered.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

81%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

19%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The majority of critics overwhelmingly praised the sound design and music of Goodbye Volcano High, highlighting its vibrant, emotionally resonant, and thematically integral qualities. Reviewers like IGN Italia emphasized that the soundtrack “encapsulates the anxieties, fears, and dreams of the characters,” positioning it as a co-protagonist in the narrative. Hardcore Gamer lauded the “terrific indie rock/pop soundtrack with a ton of gems,” while Player 2 and Press Start Australia praised the rhythm mechanics and the meaningful, well-written tracks that immerse players in the protagonist’s musical journey. The game’s original songs, such as those by the in-game band Worm Drama, were frequently highlighted as standout elements. Siliconera and SpazioGames noted the “dreamy indie pop” and “excellent soundtrack with indie rock songs,” respectively, while Eurogamer called the power-pop soundtrack “exceptional” for its catchiness and emotional depth. The integration of DualSense features by Multiplayer.it further enhanced the tactile experience, underscoring the music’s role in shaping the game’s atmosphere. While most reviews celebrated the soundtrack, a few critics pointed to minor shortcomings. Hey Poor Player found the music “fine but not particularly captivating,” and Digital Spy criticized the lack of subtitles during musical sequences, which could hinder accessibility. GameCrate noted some audio issues with voice acting, likely due to pandemic-era recording challenges, while New Game Network lamented “amateurish” voice acting and sparse background music in certain sections. Gamers Heroes described the sound design as “decent but not particularly outstanding,” suggesting that while the music was a central theme, it didn’t always reach its full potential. These critiques, however, were outliers compared to the general enthusiasm for the game’s auditory elements. The overall consensus among critics is that Goodbye Volcano High’s sound design and music are a defining strength, with many hailing them as essential to the game’s identity. TheGamer called the soundtrack “the best part of the game,” while GameGrin and Gamereactor UK praised its ability to elevate the narrative and gameplay. Even critics who noted minor flaws acknowledged the music’s emotional impact and creative ambition. The recurring praise for the indie rock/pop aesthetic, the integration of rhythm mechanics, and the evocative lyrics—such as the “melancholy lyrics of love, loss, and self-discovery” highlighted by WellPlayed—demonstrates a shared appreciation for how the music enriches the game’s storytelling. While not universally flawless, the soundtrack’s ability to resonate with players and complement the game’s themes has cemented it as one of Goodbye Volcano High’s most memorable aspects.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Praised for its emotionally resonant, authentic performances that make characters feel like real teens, Goodbye Volcano High's voice acting is a standout despite minor technical hiccups and uneven pacing in early acts.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

73%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

20%

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

The voice acting in Goodbye Volcano High is widely praised for its quality, emotional depth, and ability to bring characters to life. Critics like Hardcore Gamer highlight the "top-notch" performances and "great chemistry among the cast," particularly noting how the characters shine during Dungeons and Dragons sessions. IGN Italia emphasizes that the writing and voice acting create an immediate connection with players, enhancing the game’s intimate storytelling. Press Start Australia lauds the "stellar" voice work and sharp dialogue, which makes the characters feel like authentic teenagers, while Push Square praises each performance for its unique charm and ability to make memorable characters stand out. GamesRadar+ also commends the "teenagers sound like teenagers," adding authenticity to the narrative. These reviews collectively underscore the voice acting’s role in making the game’s emotional beats resonate deeply with players. However, some critics point to technical and performance-related flaws. Siliconera reports issues with voice lines loading slowly or cutting off, along with inconsistent lip syncing, which could disrupt immersion. New Game Network criticizes the "flat" and emotionless delivery of voices, particularly for the lead character, while TheGamer notes that the voice acting is "hit-or-miss," especially in the first act, where stilted dialogue pacing and a lack of background music make scenes feel empty. These critiques suggest that while the voice work is generally strong, certain technical hiccups and uneven performances in early sections may detract from the experience for some players. Overall, the critical reception leans heavily positive, with most reviewers celebrating the voice acting as a standout element. The majority praise its authenticity, emotional range, and ability to elevate the game’s narrative, as seen in GameCrate’s assertion that "not a single performance falls flat" despite minor audio issues. While concerns about technical glitches (e.g., Siliconera) and uneven pacing (e.g., TheGamer) exist, they are relatively isolated compared to the widespread acclaim. The consensus is that Goodbye Volcano High’s voice acting is a key strength, effectively balancing charm, realism, and emotional impact to create a memorable experience.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Goodbye Volcano High’s tech quirks are mostly minor annoyances, not deal-breakers—PS5 shines with stability, PC struggles with controls, and PS4’s bugs linger but may fix via patches, all while critics forgive flaws for the game’s creative heart.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

79%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

14%

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

The technical performance of Goodbye Volcano High across its platforms received mixed but generally manageable feedback, with some standout positives. On PS5, several reviewers highlighted the game’s overall stability and engaging experience despite minor flaws. For instance, Multiplayer.it noted no significant technical issues beyond occasional zooms in musical sections, while Player 2 and IGN Italia emphasized that hitches were “small” or “minor,” not disruptive to gameplay. RPG Fan acknowledged some quirks like dialogue pauses and art glitches but framed them as non-malicious. On PC, New Game Network praised the game’s stability, calling it “fairly stable overall” despite minor quirks like UI overlap and scene transitions. While Checkpoint Gaming criticized joystick controls in rhythm sections, others like GameGrin downplayed such issues as “minor.” The PS4 version, however, faced more pronounced challenges, though TheGamer noted potential for patches to address bugs. Negatives were more prevalent across platforms, particularly on PS5, where technical flaws occasionally detracted from immersion. Siliconera and SpazioGames criticized frequent voice line loading issues, lip-sync problems, and background animation glitches, while WellPlayed highlighted audio/visual bugs and pacing issues. Press Start Australia and RPG Fan also cited dialogue and subtitle errors, though they stressed these did not halt progress. On PC, GameCrate reported problematic voice acting with clipped lines and low-quality recordings, while Checkpoint Gaming found rhythm gameplay controls frustrating. The PS4 version faced the harshest criticism, with TheGamer detailing UI scrolling issues, slow loading, and “game-breaking bugs,” though they acknowledged potential fixes via patches. These flaws varied in severity but collectively underscored development challenges. Overall, critics largely agreed that Goodbye Volcano High’s technical shortcomings were manageable and did not overshadow its strengths. While PS5 reviewers like Siliconera and WellPlayed emphasized recurring issues, many (e.g., IGN Italia, Player 2) viewed them as minor distractions rather than deal-breakers. On PC, the game’s stability was a notable plus for New Game Network, even as audio and control quirks persisted. The PS4 version faced the most criticism, but its issues were framed as solvable through updates. Despite platform-specific variations, the consensus leaned toward forgiveness for technical flaws given the game’s creative ambition, with most reviewers agreeing that these problems did not detract from the core experience.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Replay value shines through branching choices, hidden scenes, and relationship-driven outcomes, but structural limits like short length, single save file, and lack of replayable chapters temper its appeal. A compelling yet uneven experience for narrative-focused players.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

73%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

18%

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

The reviewers generally highlight several positive aspects of Goodbye Volcano High’s replay value. Hardcore Gamer emphasizes that the game encourages multiple playthroughs to explore diverse connections, paths, and collectible photos, while Multiplayer.it notes that choices create new options and enhance enjoyment through real-time social media interactions. SpazioGames and Wccftech both praise the alternative scenes, endings, and opportunities to alter responses and friendships, which add depth to repeated experiences. WellPlayed and GameGrin also commend the unique sequences and unlockable content tied to relationship developments, while GamesRadar+ acknowledges secret scenes and end-game variations influenced by choices. These perspectives collectively suggest that the game’s narrative flexibility and hidden elements provide meaningful incentives for players to revisit its world. However, several critics point out notable limitations. Press Start Australia criticizes the lack of chapter replayability and the inability to re-experience music sequences, which they argue diminishes replay appeal. Checkpoint Gaming and Gamers Heroes express dissatisfaction with the absence of branching paths and the game’s short length (completed in under five episodes), making repeated playthroughs feel less compelling. New Game Network adds that the single save file and limited alternative paths restrict exploration, while Gamers Heroes notes flashbacks function more as bonus features than core replay content. These critiques highlight a tension between the game’s narrative depth and its structural constraints, which some players may find restrictive. The overall consensus among critics is mixed but leans toward acknowledging Goodbye Volcano High’s replay value as a nuanced experience. While many praise its branching choices, hidden scenes, and relationship-driven outcomes (as noted by SpazioGames, Wccftech, and GamesRadar+), others like Press Start Australia and Checkpoint Gaming feel the game’s design limits meaningful repetition. The divide reflects differing expectations: some players appreciate the emotional depth and subtle variations in endings, while others desire more extensive branching or post-game content. Ultimately, the game offers a compelling but uneven replay experience, with its strengths lying in narrative exploration and weaknesses in structural flexibility.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

66%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

32%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The majority of reviewers praise Goodbye Volcano High for its heartfelt storytelling, emotional depth, and creative presentation. Critics like Hardcore Gamer highlight its "lovable cast," "amazing music," and "sweet story about perseverance," while IGN Italia and Press Start Australia commend its exploration of personal affirmation, friendship, and love, calling it a "standout teen drama" despite technical flaws. The game’s narrative is frequently lauded for its sincerity and inclusivity, with The So Videogames Podcast noting its "earnest, mature, queer, warm, and heartbreaking experience." GameGrin and RPG Fan emphasize the compelling story, stunning visuals, and memorable soundtrack, while Eurogamer describes it as a "powerful and emotionally impactful coming-of-age game" that stands out from typical high school narratives. The unique blend of visual novel mechanics with a coming-of-age storyline, coupled with its focus on marginalized characters, resonates strongly with many critics. However, several reviewers point to technical and structural shortcomings. Hey Poor Player criticizes the "bland writing," "cliched characters," and "needlessly protracted scenes," while Multiplayer.it notes narrative inconsistencies and issues in musical sections. TheGamer delivers a scathing review, calling it "half-baked" due to slow pacing, lack of thematic payoff, and unrealized potential, awarding it a 2.5/5. Others like GameCrate mention audio problems, and Checkpoint Gaming points to limited replay value and technical issues. Wccftech argues the game "lacks real drama" and may feel overly nice for some players, while Gamers Heroes suggests it plays it safe with a "comfort tale akin to an anime." These critiques often center on pacing, gameplay mechanics, and the impact of technical flaws on immersion. Despite mixed reactions to its execution, the overall consensus among critics is that Goodbye Volcano High is a worthwhile experience. While TheGamer’s low score stands out as an outlier, most reviewers acknowledge its strengths, with Siliconera calling it an "acquired taste" and SpazioGames noting its emotional impact despite technical issues. Eurogamer and GameGrin strongly recommend it, praising its unique approach to teen drama and heartfelt storytelling. The game’s ability to balance charm, inclusivity, and emotional resonance outweighs its flaws for many, as seen in The So Videogames Podcast’s 9/10 score and RPG Fan’s assertion that it "exceeds expectations." While not flawless, the critical reception leans toward admiration for its ambition and sincerity.

TL;DR

Goodbye Volcano High wins hearts with its tender, inclusive teen drama, stellar music, and emotional storytelling—yet stumbles on clunky mechanics, pacing, and technical hiccups, making it a bittersweet, uneven but ultimately rewarding ride.

MONSTER

Reviews

41 reviews found

100

Player 2

PlayStation 5

Sep 30, 2023

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

An amazing example of what the genre can be, with a unique story and emotional impact.

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100

Eurogamer

Sep 7, 2023

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

Goodbye Volcano High is a powerful and emotionally impactful coming-of-age game that stands out from the standard fare. It offers a unique high school narrative and a memorable soundtrack. Highly recommended.

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GameGrin

Sep 12, 2023

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

Goodbye Volcano High is an excellent game with a phenomenal story, animation, and music that everyone will love.

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RPG Fan

PlayStation 5

Sep 24, 2023

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

Goodbye Volcano High manages to exceed expectations, with a compelling story, engaging gameplay mechanics, stunning visuals, and a pleasing soundtrack. It is hard not to recommend the game.

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Press Start Australia

PlayStation 5

Sep 11, 2023

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

Goodbye Volcano High is a truly special game. It combines a well-conceived gameplay idea with a unique and superbly crafted world, sharp writing, and a gorgeous soundtrack. It is an earnest, mature, queer, warm, and heartbreaking experience.

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The So Videogames Podcast

PlayStation 5

Oct 12, 2023

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

The hosts highly recommend Goodbye, Volcano High and give it a solid nine out of ten score.

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God is a Geek

Sep 3, 2023

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

A charming visual novel with clever narrative choices and enjoyable gameplay, but may not appeal to those who cringe at teen drama.

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IGN Italia

PlayStation 5

Sep 13, 2023

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

Goodbye Volcano High is a high-level work that tells a story of personal affirmation, friendship, and love. Despite its technical flaws, the game's substance and intimate storytelling make it a standout teen drama.

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Hardcore Gamer

PlayStation 5

Sep 12, 2023

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

Goodbye Volcano High is a terrifically-crafted slice of high school drama that succeeds thanks to its lovable cast, amazing music, and a sweet story about perseverance. While not the greatest visual novel of the year, it is a recommended experience.

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Checkpoint Gaming

Sep 11, 2023

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

Goodbye Volcano High is a fun, nerdy, queer narrative adventure with engaging gameplay and lovable characters. The story is full of heart and the game offers an inclusive narrative experience. However, there are some technical issues and the replay value is limited.

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