Never have I felt more seen by a game than this. Growing up, I was so lost. Falling into groups where I was used, picked on, and other things I do not want to get into. While I would hang out around these people, they weren't really my friends, and they definitely didn’t like me all that much. And I wasn't fond of myself either. It wasn't until recently where I have been coming to terms with my identity and sense of self, finding people who accept me for who I am. However, admittedly, the pain still cuts deep. And the struggles Melody faces, I heavily resonate with. I have always had this looming fear of having no personality. Just being a sad, forgettable little speck in the universe. Melody’s character development in this story however, fills me with so much hope. While the ending is indeed a little cheesy, I don’t care. I love it, and Melody has easily become one of my favorite video game protagonists ever.

Another character I connect with heavily is Claire. I often feel like a failure to my family and friends. While I do well in my classes, I never felt like I truly have a special role besides being the smart one, or the weird one who doesn’t talk a lot. Hearing my relatives laugh while I just sat with my headphones on. Disassociating from the outside world. It hurt. To feel like an outsider to my own family and friends. Claire, from what I remember in my first playthrough, struggles as well with her self esteem and how she values herself in the world. However I love her as a character for how unapologetically herself she is throughout the game despite that, especially nearing the ending. I aspire to not be afraid like that one day. Something else I wish to mention is the scene between her and Melody in the winter area has easily become one of my favorite moments in a video game, like ever.

Finally, to the creators of this beautifully gay little game, thank you. This game means so much more than you think. Also, one more thing, thank you to all my friends who have been I have either hung out in calls or the few I know here in real life. Specifically though, thank you Luna, for helping me talk about this game and connect with it more as of recently (as well as help me discover some things about myself).

<3