Coffee Talk Episode 2: Hibiscus & Butterfly preview – a cozy cup of joy
❘: Updated: 2023-03-16T14:14:26
We recently had the opportunity to discuss the next installment of the very popular Coffee Talk, titled Episode 2: Hibiscus & Butterfly. Here’s what we thought about the upcoming happy title.
Cozy Games has a warm place in my heart. They’re relaxing, easy to play, and perfect for the end of a busy or stressful day that often requires half of a brain for a fast-paced RPG. However, they can be hit or miss depending on the plot, controls, music, and overall message.
Fortunately, it was clear to see that Coffee Talk Episode 2: Hibiscus & Butterfly was a comfortable game for the ages, even before I could fully immerse myself in each character’s gripping story or the incredibly soothing LoFi soundtrack.
Comfortable from the highest point of view
The occasional joke or meme reference only serves to enhance the enjoyment that comes from this game.
The fact that LoFi music is mixed with the low-key atmosphere of a rainy street confirms that Coffee Talk Episode 2 prioritizes immersion, with a slight hint of idealistic design. All this helps you fully embody your dream evening coffee stop.
The combination of soothing music, ambiance, and auto-play narration allows players to sit back with a cozy blanket with their favorite hot beverage, ambient lighting, and enjoy what appears to be a thrilling movie-style experience.
As with many cozy games, Coffee Talk Episode 2 has a relaxed feel to it, complemented by a dash of comedy. It often made us smile or sometimes laugh out loud thanks to some well-placed character designs, the presence of a furry friend, or a subtle meme sheet.
An experience for the experienced
Creating different potions is made much easier with convenient status bars and a reset option.
While the game undeniably prioritizes an easy and cool experience, it’s called Coffee Talk Series 2: for a reason.
The game assumes you’ve played the first part and doesn’t explain how to make certain potions or navigate the cell phone at the bottom of your screen. Also, some story conversations and features are more exciting for players who know the character from the previous game, which means there are a few moments where new players will get confused.
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However, with a few helpful hints and a little persistence, the pieces will come together and you’ll have all the knowledge you need.
Hands off, brains off
The auto-story feature lets you enjoy the story without distraction, cats and all.
As previously mentioned, Coffee Talk Episode 2 has an auto-narrative feature that allows players to sit back and enjoy the story, only needing to make three or four drinks in one night. However, one of the most impressive elements of this preview was how simple the gameplay was, even down to making potions.
Drinks are often a bit of a challenge as the player is tasked with creating the right drink for the right customer, but it doesn’t really detract from the plot when the player gets a bit wrong, rather they interpret it but quickly move on with their story.
These easy game elements allowed us to just get involved without thinking too much while playing. Coffee Talk Episode 2 manages to transport you to a relaxed and comfortable world while keeping the story exciting, funny and memorable.
A compelling yet subtle story
A meaningful story built into the frozen comfortable gameplay is a great combination.
Many comfort games, such as Disney Dreamlight Valley, have a short plot but are mostly handheld, allowing the player to pave their way and enjoy the title as they wish. However, Coffee Talk Episode 2 challenges this by putting players in a relaxing atmosphere that isn’t afraid to grapple with vital topics like racism, the effects of social media, loneliness, love, and more.
These conversations felt natural in this environment. It allowed the experience to be both relaxed and meaningful, while challenging perspectives subtly and carefully, as if eavesdropping on another conversation in… well, a coffee shop.
After all, Coffee Talk Episode 2 is a direct sequel to the original and still manages to create a comfortable, relaxed yet conscious experience. It left us both pumped up at the end of each session and excited to see what it could bring in the future.