The Last Birdling

The Last Birdling is the penultimate VN from InvertMouse (so far). A story of unlikely friendship sprouting despite perennial animosity overshadowing it. Does it sound intriguing, or just cliche? Let's check. To start with, I want to mention that I finished every VN from InvertMouse, except for Bermuda, but left this one as last even though the Vinty's adventure part 3 came out later. Equipped with that, I can tell tell you that in general you can expect either light comedy or full on drama from this creator. Well, we get a little bit of both here, but mostly the latter. I can more or less classify the story as utsuge, since no matter what choices you make, it ain't ending pretty. Still, don't let it hold you back from checking it as it is possibly the best work from this author (have to yet play Clea 1 & 2). You get two protagonists, two perspectives, passage of time, and interspecies conflict. All competently written, and with five possible outcomes. The outcomes which are easy to reach, since all choices you are presented with either increase the progression bars or not. The criteria for reaching particular ending are clearly explained so you won't waste time guessing which choice to make. A very nice addition indeed. I won't go into details of the relatively short story itself, as I hate spoilers, and stand by opinion that the fewer details you know the better the experience. All you need to know is that I enjoyed it and fully recommend. At this price it is hard to find better. Accompanying you is a decent anime art. Considering western standards, this one stands above average. Amount of details and variety of poses/emotions character sprites have is satisfactory. Additional effects like the intentional mosaics add to the charm of characters. Backgrounds are also pretty and come in several variants. No complaints here. Music is pleasant and fitting as well. Variety of tracks allow to highlight emotional moments pretty well. Nothing truly memorable but definitely good enough to buy and play separately. Good job here. No bugs encountered. To conclude, a decently written emotional story of unlikely friendship. Relatively short but several endings extend the experience nicely. Also, good art and OST. Possibly the best VN from this developer. Well done InvertMouse: 7.2/10