I once began this game in 2020 and stopped playing after only a couple hours of gameplay. It was not yet the right time for me - this game can feel like a heavy weight at times. I am so glad I gave it another shot.

Though this game is much more than a visual novel, if you generally do not enjoy reading books then this game is not for you. Much of the game play time is spent reading text without an animation or visual to support it. For me, this is alright as I am someone who felt immersed enough by reading the dialogue and narration. Some will disagree, that is fine.

Aside from that barrier that people seem to encounter, this game is a phenomenal experience front to back. At first I was frustrated by the fact that the game would introduce something fantastical and strange but not explain it's meaning. Much is left up to the interpretation of the player. But once I got used to the magical nature of the game, I was able to let go of trying to take things too literally.

The dialogue options and art direction are a real achievement from the developers - though the art assets are simple in design, they suit the game's atmosphere. I absolutely adored when the canonical folk songs would bleed through from the background. By the end I was totally invested in the characters and was left with a strong impression.

Not often do games manage to be poetic without risking their maturity. KRZ is as sophisticated as it is innovative. Highly recommend it.