All things considered, Myth·Legend·Chronicle is, without a doubt, an a flawed game.
Leaving aside its awful gameplay, its unfinished state, and the countless traps born of the developers' twisted sense of humor... any one of these issues would be enough to criticize it on their own.
Let's start with the core responsibilities of the three members of the Game Development Department.
First, there's Yuzu, the club president and lead planner.
"The gameplay is probably the most polished part of your game, but the difficulty and balance are completely off.
"Take the first enemy, the gun-wielding slime. For players unfamiliar with the mechanics, even those with some skill have to work hard to get past it.
"That sort of challenge might fit a hardcore game, but I doubt that was your intention, right?"
Yuzu stayed silent, saying nothing in response.
Next was Midori, in charge of the artwork.
"Let me confirm something. All of the game's art was done by you alone, right?"
After she nodded, I continued.
"I'm guessing you didn't have much experience before this. The art style changes quite a bit between the early and later parts of the game.
"It's clear you improved as you went along, but the early drawings don't stand out much. When early and late illustrations appear together, the difference is pretty noticeable.
"If there had been time to update the earlier sections, the experience would be smoother. But deadlines are always a part of game development."
Midori pressed her lips together and lowered her head.
Finally, there was Momoi, the scriptwriter.
"The story, to be honest, is a mess.
"There are confusing word choices, too much unnecessary lore, and a plot that feels repetitive and derivative.
"If someone took the time, they could probably find a dozen plot holes without much effort.
"The climax isn't bad, the mood is there, but it tries a bit too hard.
"And paired with an ending that feels like you gave up and left a huge blank space, when you look back from the start, it's almost funny."
Momoi let out a small wail, muttering "cruel, cruel" under her breath.
The small clubroom of the Game Development Department was filled with a heavy silence, as if Yuuka herself were still there watching.
After giving my honest feedback, I took a deep breath and spoke sincerely.
"But it's exactly because of these flaws that I'm looking forward to your next game."
The girls, who had been discouraged, looked up at me, hope returning to their eyes.
"Experience and technique can be learned and accumulated. But what truly matters is love, for the game itself."
I smiled. "That's the one thing that stands out, even in this rough version you've created.
"To be honest, playing your game felt like torture. But after finishing it, looking back, I could feel your passion and effort loud and clear.
"Yuzu's numbers and systems show meticulous work, Midori's art clearly reflects study and dedication, Momoi's script may have holes, but her ideas were earnest and heartfelt."
"And honestly, even if just a little… your game was kind of fun."
Still, I really don't want to play it a second time.
"Besides, not every game can claim first place on the 'Worst Games of the Year' list, can it? Especially one like Myth·Legend·Chronicle, made by a rookie team with almost no publicity.
"If it were truly worthless and half-baked, it wouldn't have drawn enough players to even make the list, let alone get reviews.
"I've seen the online comments. They point out all sorts of flaws, but if people hadn't played it, how would they know what to criticize?"
Of course, some players probably tried it just because of its reputation, but that's beside the point.
"So think of it this way. Even Myth·Legend·Chronicle has its unique spark. If you learn from this painful failure, reflect, and make up for what's lacking,
"Then your next game, people will truly call it fun from the heart.
"At the very least, I'm really looking forward to playing your next one. Actually, please make sure I get to play it. If you need testers, I'll gladly volunteer.
"I can't wait for the Game Development Department's next release."
Having said all that in one breath, I took a deep breath again, picked up the Yuja tea I'd ordered with lunch and hadn't quite finished, and took a sip to moisten my throat.
Supporting students' passions and dreams is also part of a Sensei's duty.
So yes, I was eagerly looking forward to their next game and maybe also to being adorably sandwiched between a pair of cute twin girls again.
Is there anyone in Kivotos more competent than me?
Obviously not.
Even I was moved by my overflowing sense of duty as a Sensei, not to mention the students of the Game Development Department, who had just been showered in motivational talk.
The girls' eyes shone with tears as they clenched their fists, fired up and ready to take on the world.
"This is amazing!" Momoi said enthusiastically. "See, I told you! Someone was bound to appreciate our game! Sensei, you really have great taste!"
I'm not sure that counts as 'appreciating' Myth·Legend·Chronicle, though.
Never mind. I won't argue with silly kids.
"Big sis," Midori said softly, tugging on Momoi's sleeve and glancing shyly at me, "Sensei also said our game still has a lot of flaws.
"So we need to work harder, and make something that'll truly make Sensei proud."
I corrected her. "Not just me. Make something that everyone who plays will praise."
"…Okay."
Midori smiled bashfully.
As for the timid Yuzu...
After mumbling for a while, she finally forced out, trembling, "Th-thank… thank you…"
Then, after a few nervous breaths, she seemed to gather every last bit of courage she had, trying to keep her voice steady as she spoke her heart.
"I've always… wanted to hear words like that. Just hearing someone say our game was even a little fun… that alone makes it worth it. Sensei, truly… thank you."
"You shouldn't be thanking me," I said gently, "but yourself, the one who put in all the effort."
Yuzu bit her lip lightly, looked at me, and nodded ever so slightly.