Players Like...

❤ Mastering the Dye Mechanic

The core gameplay mechanic revolves around "dyeing" enemies. Larger "elite" foes have colored auras, and when defeated, any smaller "popcorn" enemies within the aura get dyed that color. Players can then destroy the dyed popcorn enemies to collect resources like points, bomb fragments, or life fragments. This creates a puzzle-like challenge as players must carefully time and position their shots to maximize their dye chains.

❤ Diverse Playable Characters

The game features three playable character teams, each with their own unique shot types and special abilities. The human characters (Reimu/Marisa) can damage elite enemies, while the youkai characters (Yukari/Yuyuko) excel at hitting the smaller popcorn foes. The immortal duo (Mokou/Keine) have a special explosive shot mechanic that synergizes with the dye system. This variety allows players to experiment and find the playstyle that suits them best.

❤ Scalable Difficulty Modes

The game offers a range of difficulty settings, from an easy Normal mode to the punishingly challenging Lunatic. Lower difficulties provide a more forgiving experience, while higher levels demand mastery of the dye mechanics and bullet patterns. Reviewers praised the game's ability to scale the challenge appropriately, catering to both newcomers and veteran players.

❤ Engaging Stage Design

The stages are designed around the dye mechanic, creating a more puzzle-focused experience. Players must carefully manage their resources and time their attacks to maximize their dye chains and unlock the final "Last Word" spellcard for each boss. This departs from the traditional Touhou "danmaku" (bullet curtain) gameplay.

❤ Replayability and Scoring

The game's scoring system, which rewards efficient dye management, provides an incentive for players to experiment with different strategies and routes through the levels. The unlimited continue system also allows players to learn the stages at their own pace. Reviewers highlighted the game's replayability and the satisfaction of improving their scores over multiple playthroughs.