Players Like...

❤ Engaging Exploration and Narrative Progression

Players can freely explore a variety of settings, including classrooms, a bookstore, and a neighborhood cafe, to gather "Topics" and "Clues" about the everyday lives and inner struggles of the three protagonists: the freelance artist Fengyi, the troubled high school student Xiaobo, and the university student Jingxian. This encourages players to actively delve into the characters' hearts and minds, shaping the narrative through their discoveries and choices.

❤ Interactive Character Study

The gameplay moves beyond a traditional visual novel experience, allowing players to uncover insights about the characters that go beyond the surface-level dialogue. By collecting "Topics" and "Clues," players can develop a deeper understanding of the protagonists' motivations, regrets, and dreams, ultimately empowering them to help the characters "fix" their shattered lives.

❤ Branching Narrative and Multiple Endings

While the game features multiple endings, reviewers note that there is a single "true" ending that players can strive towards. This suggests that the narrative choices made throughout the game shape the journey and character development, rather than drastically altering the overall story. The ability to "fix" the characters' regrets serves as a central goal, compelling players to make thoughtful decisions that lead to a satisfying resolution.

❤ Focused Pacing and Playtime

"Shanghai Summer" is described as a relatively concise experience, with a playtime ranging from 3.5 to 6 hours. This focused length may appeal to players who seek a narrative-driven game without excessive padding or repetition, allowing the developers to maintain a well-balanced pacing that keeps players engaged throughout the twelve-day story.