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Review of La Corda d'Oro on PlayStation 2

by Chucky Chucky photo Mar 2004
Cover image of La Corda d'Oro on PS2
Gamefings Score: 7
Platform: PS2 PS2 logo
Released: 18 Mar 2004
Genre: Musical, Romance, Life Simulation, Visual Novel
Developer: Ruby Party
Publisher: Koei

Introduction

Welcome to the world of "La Corda d'Oro," where musical plots and teenage angst intertwine like a badly knotted shoelace. Set in the lavish realm of Seiso Academy, it's practically Hogwarts for aspiring musicians. You'll be guiding Kahoko Hino, a girl who gets a magical violin-proof that no one in the universe can resist the joys of music and melodrama, even if they tried. Magic, music, and more boy trouble than one can shake a baton at-let's dive into this melodious mess.

Gameplay

Gameplay in La Corda d'Oro resembles a fever dream of musical notes and romances. Players aren't exactly slaying dragons or collecting coins-instead, you are mastering the delicate art of chatting with the various heartthrobs while practicing your violin. Yes, the art of balancing studies, friendships, and your crushes is a skill you'll need in this game. Navigating through your days entails a complex schedule filled with practice sessions, competitions, and casual hangouts. Think of it like a dating sim, but all romantic pursuits hinge upon how well you can riff on a violin. Your magical violin allows you to play any song if you remember the tune, which is the main mechanic-kind of like the best party trick ever, if all your parties are strictly for deadpan musical cliques. You'll juggle likes and dislikes, practice different musical pieces, and even deal with conniving rival students. Between the love interests dotting the landscape and a fairy named Lili who meddles in your affairs like a nosy parent, prepare yourself for an intricate web of melodrama, fluffy love triangles, and musical notes that make you question your life choices. The game's narrative runs deeper than just music and boys, touching on themes like personal growth, the importance of hard work, and the existential dread of blossoming adulthood. It's like being part of a soap opera but instead of dramatic monologues filled with scandal, you'll find upbeat music and tearful violin solos. Who could ask for more?

Graphics

Graphically, La Corda d'Oro doesn't quite take the crown for the most stunning visuals on the PS2. The character designs are charming, and the environments are colorful, but at times, they can feel more dated than your grandma's gramophone. Think cheerful anime vibes, and you're on the right track-lots of pastel colors and expressive character faces that ooze charm and angst. The backgrounds set a cozy yet whimsical atmosphere, as if you're strolling through a music-filled daydream, as long as you can suspend your disbelief over the less-than-stellar polygons. If you're looking for cutting-edge graphics, you may want to steer towards another title-it's all about those heartstrings and not the pixels, after all.

Conclusion

The world of La Corda d'Oro is one that dances delightfully somewhere between a musical fairy tale and a teenage drama. It won't appeal to the action junkies among us, but those with a penchant for romance and classical music will find themselves quite at home. It's all about learning, growing, and maybe swooning a little, too. So, if you have a soft spot for charming stories about playing violins, teenage angst, and love triangles sharper than a bowstring, then grab your headphones and dive into the melodrama. Remember: it's not just about hitting the right notes; it's about connecting with your feelings and, of course, those swoon-worthy characters. Just make sure to practice and don't forget your lines, or you might just find yourself playing the role of the awkward loner in this musical escapade. 7 out of 10-because let's face it, it could have used a little more action and a lot less adolescent soul-searching.

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