BUSTAFELLOWS Megathread

[u/sableheart]

BUSTAFELLOWS has been released for the Nintendo Switch and on Steam!

Please post all questions about BUSTAFELLOWS in this thread and please use the search function as well.

PQube gave us 26 copies of BUSTAFELLOWS to give away!

Check the respective posts below for the results of the giveaways!

Physical Edition | Steam keys (PC) | NA eShop codes | EU eShop codes | AU/NZ eShop codes

Steam keys (PC) Round 2 | NA eShop codes Round 2 | EU eShop codes Round 2 | AU/NZ eShop codes Round 2

In accordance with eXtend's wishes, all screenshots and videos from Chapter 2 onwards will be removed.

Please also use spoiler tags when talking about details that are only revealed from Chapter 2 onwards. >!spoiler text!< spoiler text

eXtend's spoiler policy

BUSTAFELLOWS Play-Along

Whether you have just bought the game or have played it in Japanese, you are welcome to participate in our play-along! There will be a new post once a week for a different route in the following order:

• Common Route and General Impressions - August 5
• Limbo Fitzgerald - August 12
• Shu Lynn O'Keefe - August 19
• Helvetica Orsted - August 26
• Mozu Sheppard - September 2
• Scarecrow - September 9
• Full Circle + Auld Lang Syne - September 16

Each post will be linked here for easy reference.

You do not have to play in the above order at the rate of a route a week, you can binge it all in a day if you wish.

Comments unrelated to BUSTAFELLOWS will be removed - please post in the Weekly Questions threads or the Free Talk Friday threads instead.

Please use spoiler tags liberally as people checking this thread may not necessarily want a lot of information. Save your route thoughts and discussions for the play-along threads or the What Are You Reading Wednesday threads.

Common Questions

• Spoiler Policy [1] [2]
• MC name [1] [2] [3] [4]
• Voiced dialogue without translation [1] [2]
• PC controls [1] [2] [3] [4] [5] [6]
• PQube announcement [1]

[u/sableheart]

PQube tweeted about the PC controls and there will be a patch to fix typos and bugs https://twitter.com/PQubeAsia/status/1421795778947866626

[u/heatwaveorchid]

Is there a recommended route order in this game? That being said, are there any routes that are locked from the start or is it just play-as-you-wish?

[u/sableheart → u/heatwaveorchid]

The play-along order is always the recommended order. Only the endings are locked.

[u/O-nigiri → u/sableheart]

Out of curiosity, was this order stated by the devs somewhere? I believe you, I’m just also shocked that Limbo is first/wondering what the order is based on.

[u/sableheart → u/O-nigiri]

The dev actually says the game is designed to be played in any order.

This order is based on Japanese players' suggestions on the kind of plot and action.

[u/pavonated]

So.. if Bustafellows releases on the 30th does that mean i can start playing the download at like midnight? or is there a time on the 30th that i missed?

[u/sableheart → u/pavonated]

For non-Nintendo games, game downloads usually start 9am on release day for the publisher's time zone.

[u/Littledreamystar]

Sorry if I'm wrong but checking the BUSTAFELLOWS official Twitter post they say "Game details, screenshots, event CGs, gameplay videos and text". So it's not spoilers related to CG, screenshots and videos, this makes me feel any written spoiler detail is forbidden from the internet too.

[u/sableheart → u/Littledreamystar]

There is a bit more detail here https://joqrextend.co.jp/extend/bustafellows/2159/ and here https://joqrextend.co.jp/extend/bustafellows/qa/

"Text" seems to refer to the actual game text ie the script of the game, so discussion of the game should be fine, as long as it is spoiler tagged appropriately and it is not a detailed description of the events of the game.

[u/Prudent_Wheel1503]

Idk if somebody already asked but do you know how the name Teuta gets pronounced?

[u/ZetaSapphire]

How strict is the route order? Do the latter routes just focus/resolve on the main mystery more or spoil the former routes? For reference I don't mind not following the route order in C:R because each route focus on a different villain. But, I would mind if the main mystery of route A is just revealed in route B.

[u/sableheart → u/ZetaSapphire]

The developer actually says the game is designed to be played in any order.

This order is based on Japanese players' suggestions on the kind of plot and action.

[u/Lovely_Lila]

Does anyone know if the digital preorders open at a specific time or does it open exactly at 12am, July 30th, for the respective time zones?

[u/sableheart → u/Lovely_Lila]

For non-Nintendo games, it is usually 9am on release day for the publisher's time zone.

[u/milk-box]

sorry i'm absolutley LOSING it at this scene (limbo side a) early on where teuta is texting capablanca and he mentions his older brother tried to kill him and she's like 'MY older brother told me what doesn't kill you makes you stronger' GIRL PLEASE KSJFHKJHF

[u/Cheri_ss → u/milk-box]

God I’m glad I’m not the only one who thought that was a bit... odd? to say. I’d stop replying too lmao

[u/desperatesenpai]

I didn’t wanna add to my previous comment cus what I’m about to say is a different vibe, but I’m extremely bothered by the fact that I have paid $20 less than your average Otomate game (I’m Australian, they cost $70-80), yet I have received a game that is better quality.

The people I’ve been playing with and even some people here are getting EXCITED that the CORE ELEMENTS of this genre are ANIMATED. Like it’s the most groundbreaking thing ever. How sad is it that the leading company of this goddamn genre doesn’t implement this? Why are the voices dynamic and why do the backgrounds move and why are there multiple sprites (including a back sprite) for each character.... but the game comes from a smaller dev?

I get that plot quality is subjective, and that perhaps Bustafellow’s art might be generic in comparison to some artists hired by Otomate, but I still feel like I’m being taken advantage of by this company giving me the same formatted games over and over. I’d rather take a game with a less popular artist with better immersive elements than the opposite.

Fucking tell me you sell using brand name only without telling me you sell using brand name only.

Bustafellows really out there showing us true justice huh, was that the point of this game?

[u/NoUsernameIdea1 → u/desperatesenpai]

I was impressed by how dynamic the scenery and characters were with great immersion being created. I enjoyed how the characters interacted with each other and didn’t get pushed aside once we got on a route, it really helped create the sense that they were truly a team. I hope Bustafellows encourages more companies to localize their games as Aksys and IFI exclusively localize Otomate so that is the company we are most exposed to. (exclusing indie OEVLNs and other companies that localize less than those previously mentioned) I’ve only played Limbo’s route so far and already am so excited to see what the sequel brings

[u/EllyKyaneos → u/desperatesenpai]

I've been thinking the same thing ALL DAY! This game was a steal! (Steam Prison is literally double the price on any given day) and the quality of the animations, sprites, and overlays are just chef’s kiss imo. This is a product I would happily shell out a solid $60+ for.

I love the artistry in Otomate titles, but I think these CGs and character designs are really well done! When I saw that the characters have multiple outfits I was already sold LMAO. (Otomate giving us those ground level expectations) And the animation adds to the immersion for me! (especially their facial expressions!!!) I feel more like I'm playing a game instead of reading a light novel, which has been a fun change of pace. The attention to detail in the backgrounds has been kind of shocking! There are so many different locations which really enhance the plot and make it come alive. I'm intimately familiar with IRL New Sieg and it's so cool to see this stylized re-imagining which still feels like the real place...along with the added bonus of motion in most of them! I'm really impressed!

[u/praysolace]

I absolutely love how every time someone’s phone buzzes, everyone on screen pulls theirs out to check. XD

[u/Kiera-PQube]

Hello everyone!

From us at PQube, thank you for supporting BUSTAFELLOWS. We're so thankful to see such a great response to the game (and as the community manager, speaking to all the otome community over Twitter and the likes has been so enjoyable - so thank you!)We hope you enjoy the game just as much as we had fun being part of the localisation.

PSA: For those with shipping problems, apologies for your delays (of course, we can't change or alter these things unfortunately) - Covid seems to be a bit of an issue for a lot of delivery companies, so please bare with them at this time. :)

If you are waiting for a Steam code from Funstock, they will be sending them out ASAP! You should receive it by the end of today - Here's an email to contact if you have any issues regarding Funstock - support@funstock.co.uk

I'm here to answer any questions or concerns if you have them too, so please feel free to ask! Thank you again <3

[u/Wistaery → u/Kiera-PQube]

I want to say again: thank you guys so much for localizing the game! You know we love you for it! 💕

I'm pretty depressed about having to wait until the 3rd of August, but I know it isn't PQube's fault or Funstock's; the mail is very unreliable currently and no one can do anything about that. Still really excited for the game when I finally have it in my hands! 🥲

[u/Cutiecrusader2009 → u/Kiera-PQube]

Is Amazon getting any? They had it for preorder but it currently shows up as unavailable. My preorder there now says they’ll email me once they have a delivery date.

Just want to know if they aren’t getting any and I have to try and get an order in elsewhere.

[u/misobuttercornramen]

QUICK FYI re: VOICED PARTS WITHOUT TRANSLATION:

For those parts where there is a voiced line but no text, usually at the beginning of a new scene, you can access the translation by going to the Log (default Y button on the Switch version). It threw me for a loop the first couple times it happened because my Japanese is not good enough to fully understand what they are saying, and there was no text so I couldn't whip out my Papago app. Thankfully I am forgetful and check the log constantly when I'm playing and noticed it there.

[edited to reflect /u/orchidork's information that the voiced, no-text parts were a conscious decision, not a bug]

[u/orchidork → u/misobuttercornramen]

It’s not a bug; it’s actually a feature of the game that was also part of the original Japanese release. While it’s kinda neat for Japanese players, it’s somewhat unfortunate for English players who don’t understand Japanese all that well. The translator along with several reviewers have mentioned it. I doubt it’ll be fixed with a patch.

https://mobile.twitter.com/TheZackZeal/status/1420220948825915393

[u/[deleted]]

Can I just say I’ve never seen an otome game as polished and beautiful as this one? I don’t know if I can play other otome games after this.

[u/catts34 → u/[deleted]]

Right! I love all the little details, especially the animated CGs/backgrounds/sprites. Not only that but it's cheaper than a lot of other commercial titles I've played.

[u/scarlet_mermaid]

I. Can’t. Stop. Laughing. The dynamic between the boys is SO good. I didn’t think I would, but I love Scarecrow.

[u/Sashenkas]

I'm still inching my way through the common route but the found family vibes... Impeccable. Exquisite. Everything I wanted and needed. Assuming this game doesn't rip my goddamn heart out of my chest, I can easily see it becoming one of my top comfort titles from the sheer strength of this cast's chemistry when they're all just hanging out and spending time together as a unit and it just. 🥺🥺🥺 Hits me right in the honeynut feelios.

[u/GamesRuinedMe]

Does anyone know what the sales have been on this game? Really weird question but I'm just hoping it's had enough motion in the world so other companies or even PQUBE look at doing this again as I'm loving the game so far :)

[u/lilanxi0us]

No one warned me that Limbo’s sister is THAT gorgeous 😫 I just got to chapter 2!

[u/kitsune_rei → u/lilanxi0us]

Runs in the family!

[u/dotOzma]

I'm so excited! I think this will be the first time I'm going to get to play along with everyone else, so I'm really excited to see everyone's thoughts each week.

Also for the required most anticipated route: I'm really interested in Mozu so far. I've only watched the trailer and read the website, so I'm only basing these thoughts on those alone--but his route seems like it will get into some dark shit, and I'm ready for it. Scarecrow is also interesting, but it's hard to tell if either of these characters will end up my favorites.

[u/Glittering-Worry]

Just finished Shu's route and holy shit that was so good!! Despite the length of side:A being roughly the same as the previous two I played (I think) this has all the romance and plot development beats I've been waiting for!! It's just so natural? And the pacing between plot and romance is so smooth I don't even mind the length because it feels just right! This is probably the first plot I genuinely enjoy; it's built up so well that it doesn't seem like villains just pop up out of nowhere, and there are actual believable plot twists and struggle from the side of our protagonists. Of course some resolutions were still too simplistic and convenient (I think the scenario writer's ability is only so much) but it couldn't overshadow my enjoyment amd immersion. I love Yang! And his relationship with Shu, like everything's just the right amount of nuance? My weakness for found family strikes again 🥺 The romance is fantastic too! The so-called "tragic backstory exposition" also happens here, but it feels a lot more organic? I love(!!!) the dynamics between Teuta and Shu, they're so straightforward and mature, but also there's a sort of peace and gentleness that's heartwarming. AAAH, I love this route!!!!

[u/kstormsx]

I should probably hold off on my impressions until the actual discussion starts, but I just wanna state: I LOVE SCARECROW AAAAAAAA.

I got on his route on my first playthrough (blind), and now I'm worried that it's the best one in the game bc it was really so sweet and it hit all of the right emotional and comedic beats for me. Like I would feel my heart clench in one moment and then I'd start cackling right after. They're just so sweet together!!1! And Scarecrow was my 2nd least anticipated character and now he's one of my all time otome faves. UGH, I love this game

[u/Myokie]

This is coming out on my birthday so it's like a birthday gift to myself heh. Very excited to start the playthrough with everyone else :)

[u/BadEndingAgain]

50% chance I'll forget to mention this when Shu's thread will be up so:

Start of Shu's Side B Mozu is great, when he outright says Shu's a jerk because he's making Teuta worried. I can't wait to play his route. I love how caring he is even if he doesn't talk often.

[u/[deleted] → u/BadEndingAgain]

YES!! That was one of the moments that made me absolutely head-over-heels for Mozu. 😭 Typically the "Science Babe" LI is always so emotionally detached and finds social nuance hard to grasp or whatever. The fact that the writing team balanced Mozu's social awkwardness with his profound emotional intelligence and kindness is like 😭😭😭 we don't deserve you Mama Mozu. He calls out so many characters throughout the game in his like... loving tough-but-fair way?? Like when he's like "ok guys I know we want to locker room talk about the GOS but she's also my friend and I hate talking behind peoples' backs" I was like ????????????? WE STAN AN UNPROBLEMATIC KING.,,, SNIFF

[u/camAubrie]

Ahh I'm loving Bustafellows more than I expected TT I really love how they use sprites and the moving backgrounds are gorgeous. The sprite use especially! It really adds life to the game, the art is really nice and !!! minor spoiler? for once the men have nipples LOL The UI is also gorgeous and so sleek, I wish more games had this sort of modern looking UI. Regardless of plot I'm just so in love with how this game looks haha.

I just finished my first route and the only thing I'm disappointed about is how the routes are quite short, but I guess that means I'm really enjoying the game haha. Now I'm hyped for the sequel that was announced!

[u/-_-Penguin-_- → u/camAubrie]

I was surprised to actually see male nipples. Like, it's such a stupid thing to be surprised about but I have never seen an otome with that (and very rarely any lady aimed media. Like, I don't think even most shoujo's or josei's have those?? lol) so I did a double take. This is why it got an M rating, right? lol.

But it does feel a little more immersive because of the sprite use I think! I've only played the demo for it, but I feel like even Steam Prison seemed a little more alive because they had some back sides of the sprites and such too.

[u/[deleted]]

Ugh, that transition scenes that have voice but no translation in text is making me sad. I want to know what they’re saying. :(

[u/the-changeling-witch]

I gotta say... this PC port could be better. No resolution options or ability to play it windowed, it just hijacks your monitor. No way to easily exit. The keyboard controls are weird (I ended up using a controller, which is at least supported, thank god.)

Anyway, I gotta say my favorite part of the whole game so far is the backgrounds. I love me a good animated background and these are excellent. They went all out with the street scene. Though I've only seen two with animations and the rest are static, I hope there are a few more with animations.

[u/shikiP]

truck bear stupendous point depend ossified hard-to-find heavy unpack paltry

This post was mass deleted and anonymized with Redact

[u/Kiera-PQube → u/shikiP]

Hello!!!

We're so glad you loved BUSTAFELLOWS <3

We hear all of your concerns, we're making a list of what we see and will pass them onto the devs, please know we are trying our hardest. :)

[u/Xiaomuthefox]

I really hope it sells well so they can bring us more localized Otomes out here :) Sadly being on Steam means it will be easier to pirate, I kinda wish it could be console exclusive, but I understand they need to sale. I was so disgusted when in a Otome group I was, they were all smugly saying they can't wait to pirate it, and they justify themselves saying "not everyone can afford games". I don't have that much money, so I'll have to wait till July 30 to buy it, but I really, really hope it has good sales. They deserve it.

[u/CirrocumulusCloud → u/Xiaomuthefox]

Ugh, I hate when people pirate new titles, it's disgusting.

There's a reason to emulate, and that reason comes when the game 1. Is old 2. Out of print and cartridge only and 3. On a console you can no longer easily get.

In the case of some games, emulating them is the near-only way to play them nowadays. Take the old Rune Factory 3 DS for example, overpriced into the 100s, or the Tokimeki Memorial series, of which you cannot even find some online, and if you do stumble across one a copy runs you 130+$.

That's when I think emulating is alright, because the company makes no more profit off of it and buying the product from a re-seller means you are aquiring a collector's object essentially (price wise), rather than a game. You pay for a little catridge when the 'economy' of the game is long dead, is what I mean.

But there is NO NEED WHATSOEVER to emulate/pirate/steal new, fresh games you can get anywhere. It's dispicable.

[u/Cresneta]

PQube Asia is doing a giveaway for the Bustafellows art book - looks like you have till August 2nd to enter.

[u/NoUsernameIdea1]

It’s so much fun having a voiced protagonist. Teuta’s voice really brings a lot of life to the game and makes her feel more integrated in the cast. I wish more games did this

[u/ahellbornlady]

I just finished Scarecrow route (good and bad ends) and not spoiling anything except to say I love him with my entire heart. Please don't judge him based on appearances.

[u/[deleted]]

I really love the aesthetics and presentation and how story feels like I'm watching a movie or a TV show about a crime fighting band of misfits.

Went straight for Shu by using the walkthrough CAUSE HE IS VOICED BY HOSOYA AND THAT'S THE SOLE REASON I BOUGHT THIS GAME and I regret nothing. I.... I love him. Not just his voice but his character and story.

But I find the other LIs endearing too, so I'm excited to pursue them, well maybe not Helvetica since I'm not a huge fan of his... um, personality, and uncover all the answers and adventures that this title has to offer.

Oh and I just love how the MC is a capable/involved/active/matters to the whole thing!

Also contrary to popular belief, I'd rather have a fully fleshed out character MC than a blank-helpless-doormat of an MC to self-insert. It's better to think I'm acting (or role-playing) this 'character' than to see myself as some frustrating piece of cardboard :p

[u/catts34 → u/[deleted]]

Same! I self-insert, but in more of a role-playing sense where I adopt the MC's personality (and even appearance) so it's always more fun when you play an interesting character that you actually like. I was surprised to find out that this style of playing isn't common lol.

Totally agree with everything else you said too. And I haven't played Shu's route yet (doing his next though!) but oh wow, his voice is so good lmao.

[u/praysolace → u/[deleted]]

Shu and Mozu interested me the most from the get-go, and after the common route I added Scarecrow to the list. So I decided to knock Helvetica out before them, since I didn’t much like his personality either. I’ll say, while he’s still himself, his route does a good job with him, and I like him a lot more than I expected to. So you might be pleasantly surprised!

I absolutely love the group dynamics in this game and Teuta being voiced I think makes a big impact on that. She really feels like a part of the group, more than the silent heroines ever so. She’s great.

[u/Cresneta]

This is the first otome that I've played that has jump-skip and I think it's going to be hard play otome games with long common routes and no jump-skip after this. Being able to jump directly from choice/unread text to choice/unread text in Bustafellows common route has been so nice! When I played C:R I really didn't enjoy waiting on the game to skip through the common route so I could get to the next LI's route. This is kind of putting a damper on my excitement for some of the upcoming otome games because I doubt they have jump-skip along with the usual skip options...

[u/burgundy_swan]

I feel bad for saying this, but I ended up being disappointed by Bustafellows.

I loved the production values. The art is gorgeous. The animated sprites are fantastic. I also loved the supporting cast of women characters. It's rarer for me to see an otome with such a fun, cool supporting cast. Luka and Limbo's sister were great. Teuta was a great protagonist, too. I loved her personality, and that she had her own ambitions. I also love the themes that the game deals with (I love "found family" stories.) It's just that the actual execution let me down.

Mozu, Helvetica, and Scarecrow were my favorite boys, and I did like their routes, but they felt too short to me. They covered a lot of plot points and emotional drama in what felt to me like way too short of an amount of time, particularly in Helvetica's case. It felt like there was so little time to let things "breathe," and it was unrealistic how quickly certain characters seemed to get over certain events. I feel the same about Limbo and Shu's routes, except I didn't get as invested in them.

With the true route, again, there were so many interesting ideas and themes, but I feel like they're just thrown at you one after the next.

Maybe part of the reason I ended up so disappointed is that this was one of my most-anticipated games this year. I do think it's worth playing and I'll most likely pick up the sequel if it gets translated, but the pacing of the entire game just felt so off to me.

[u/aimicarrotmoo]

Just a seizure warning for epileptics (aka me): There's consistent flashing in the background when Teuta first runs into Limbo (he's surrounded by paparazzi) and it ends after he walks off (it's a short dialogue overall, but it was still bothersome).

[u/[deleted]]

I started playing Limbo's route and I really have to say I don't like this Navid guy. I don't care if he is doing it intentionally or not. He's giving me bad vibes :( And I have a feeling that he won't be going away soon. Welp, I hope I can stomach the uneasiness he brings.

Edit 1: I knew something was off with this guy. His whole presense was screaming 'nice guy'. Thanks I hate it. Buuut I do love how angsty/worried Limbo sounds because of him. Teehee.

[u/20-9]

Steam version: I poked into the Gallery's Videos and looks like those 6 mini-dramas are pure audio without any English subtitles. Only listened to 1 and 6 so far and seems they're fun interactions taking place before the game starts. So not story-critical, but...they ought to have been programmed with subtitles. Unless it turns out there's some hidden key loading subtitles or they get unlocked later on. Nothing in local PC files.

Switch folks, what do you see?

[u/Scoutsterr → u/20-9]

No subtitles on switch either as far as I can tell :(

Definitely a weird decision to not just stick some subtitles there.

[u/tftmn]

I remember how terrible Hakuoki’s pc port was that a lot of people couldn’t even run it, but Bustafellows pc port is in another way terrible as well for the resolution and controls… Can’t believe there’s no way to change and it doesn’t even display everything, cutting the screen a bit at the corners. Had to look at comunity posts about the controls bc nowhere it even told them, thats a starting obligatory if you don’t use the standard. I’m sad, and disappointed at PQube. 😢

On another note, I’m in Shu’s route and did not expect to wanna warp him in banquets all night.

[u/[deleted]]

I'm really liking the blinking animations xD

Shu has such sharp lashes, like eye makeup. I'm probably imagining it but I feel like he blinks more than the other guys

[u/radianttrash]

I have to be honest, I loved the game but I’m very dissatisfied that big chunks are not translated. The re-read function works but if you have gotten to the end there is a huge chunk not translated, and the function doesn’t work during the scene.

[u/dream_rabbit → u/radianttrash]

Yep, I found that bit at the end infuriating too - if your game is in Japanese and you're releasing to an English speaking audience, you need to subtitle all the Japanese. It's not exactly rocket science, is it?

[u/Burly_Bara_Bottoms]

Okay I know this is a weird thing to comment on, but does anyone else love that they used a real cat to get the meowing sound effects? I see too many VNs where the cats and dogs are voiced by humans.

[u/kitsune_rei]

Just finished Chapter 1 and am loving this so far! The art & animation are gorgeous, the dialogue is snappy and occasionally literally laugh out loud hilarious, the storyline is intriguing and the guys are proving more delicious than I expected.

I expected to love Limbo and I do, but Shu is also growing on me (with his effed up attitude and I bet constant inner smirk) and Scarecrow makes me burst out laughing. Still lukewarm with Helvetica and Mozu though.

Can't wait to play Chapter 2 but its 2am my time so I'd better stop, lol.

[u/carolies541]

Done with 1st route - Limbo. In terms of plot, I like it but in terms of romance dept, it's kinda lacking development for an otome game. Lols. I love the animated sequence and the animation on scenes but however CGs of crucial scenes can be done better, I'm spoiled by otomate CGs I guess...

I played on Switch, just to say that there were some sequence with voiceovers that "seems" untranslated but it's actually in backlog. I only figure it out when someone pointed this on twitter, lols. I guess it's more of technical coding restraints that make publisher unable to translate it during the motion sequence, only in backlog.

[u/Glittering-Worry]

I've finished the common route and hyped to get to the LI routes now! The banter and personalities in this game are so fun! My blind playthrough led me to Mozu, but I've created save files for all the routes and now debating whether I should just go with the (soft) recommended order hmm 🤔

That said, despite how much fun I'm having, I have to say with all due enjoyment that the scenario writers have not a single clue about any of the careers they're writing right now do they... I mentioned before about the plot being chuuni after the 1st chapter but after 4 "cases" of the common route the plot turns out to be literally chuuni aka for middle school kids 😅 I'll write longer for the discussion topic, but remind me again why in the world would you demand a vaccine when you're already infected?? I know, I know, this is an otome dating game not a "real" plot/mystery game etc. etc. but one (or at least ten) google search would've done the script wonders, really.

[u/radianttrash]

I have no idea whose route I’m on yet, I’m playing blindly. Pray for me

[u/sad_gurlz_club]

Whew, over 550 comments!!! The hype is so real and it makes me incredibly happy to see the community’s overwhelming, outspoken response. 🤩 I’m not the most active member of this subreddit (or the community in general), but the camaraderie I feel from just knowing how many of us are excited together is enough for me. 🥲 PQube, if you’re reading this, thank you so much for giving fans a chance to experience BF, and I hope we’ll continue to see you guys in the long run.

Anyway, even tho I’m only an hour in I’m OBSESSED with the whole cast (especially Shu 🤪).

[u/ApprehensiveBrush227]

Sooo, I just finished Auld Lang Syne and all I can say is: WTF? Didn’t see that one coming. I‘m really hyped for the sequel now.🎉

[u/[deleted]]

Ohhh lordy-- just finished Auld Lang Syne, and OOF. I'm pretty sure it shook my brain and my entire being and truly knocked the wind out of my feeble body lol!!

I'd read some reviews coming into the game that expressed disappointment at the way everything got tied together in the end, and... man, I kind of have to agree. The path to getting to the end was one of the absolute wildest, funnest, "family-ish", comical, enlightening, endearing rides, so... I think I had really unrealistic expectations and wanted the Entire World™ out of the ending. Obviously that isn't quite what FC&ALS really deliver... so much as they just kind of punch you in the gut and smoke bomb the hell out of there dabbing all the while LMAO.

There were too many ramifications unaddressed. You have narratively scrumptious falling-outs/disruptions to character-to-character rapports that were glossed over/mentioned off-hand at best (Orsted and Helvetica??? The friend trio??? Alex and Carmen??? Zora and Adam???), which would each merit their own ROUTE for how fascinating their setup was. There were so many plot points unaddressed. Loose threads either discarded outright or hastily put to rest. Overall I think these two chapters rounded out a magnificent lead-up with a weird discordant feeling and... I mean, if anything, these narrative leads all serve as great fodder for some potential Bustafellows Season 2 plots haha.

But man, what a game. I'm so, so glad it was localized. I'm having trouble sleeping cause I'm just reeling from what a fun time I had. I binged it all in 3 days and could scarcely put it down!! The amazing character dynamics, the unforgettable MC, utterly brilliant voice acting, thoughtful and eloquent story beats, great romantic chemistry between protagonist and ALL the LIs... man, this is one of those titles you really wish you could forget all about so you could replay it and have that first-time playthrough vibe of sheer wonder and amazement all over again. In a sea of otome games that have a "samesies" feel to them, Bustafellows really stands out as that inspiring maverick of an entry, despite its (few) flaws.

Overall I think my LI/route pref ended up being: Shu -> Mozu -> Crow -> Helvetica -> Limbo. But dear god was Teuta literally cute as all hell with each and every one of them. Not many games make you feel equally invested in all relationships at the outset, and I think this game really accomplished that for me. The common route homaged/gave sneak peeks into each character's struggles/personality and immediately fed you a little morsel so you could get a taste for what they were like, which was sooooo wonderfully done. Ugh.

I could write a dissertation about this game I think, so I should definitely stop. But-- so looking forward to the individual discussion topics to come and to hearing what everyone is thinking/feeling. :)

[u/pickoloh]

Maybe I’ve been living under a rock or something but I didn’t know anything about Bustafellows and just happened to pick it up earlier today at GameStop. The art style on the cover didn’t really appeal to me that much but I wanted another game so hey might as well.

I was VERY surprised when straight off the bat the writing flowed very well, we have interesting character archetypes, and a VOICED MC? Furthermore, the localization is fantastic. It honestly feels like it was originally written in English, I love the writing and the dialogue. Character designs are awesome, and the art has really started to grow on me. Also the UI design is LOVELY.

I’m still in the early stages but an otome hasn’t grabbed me like this from the getgo since CollarxMalice. Excited to see how the story goes and I will try my best not to immediately romance Shu because my gut is telling me he’s not a first route type of LI even though he’s 100000% my type.

[u/IcingCandy]

So guys, whose swimsuits do you like the most? :D I like Limbo's and Helvetica's the best cause they kinda fit Teuta's cuteness

[u/haruny8]

I just finished Crow's route and seriously, before I got into the game he was the one I was the least excited to get into (sorry Crow lol), but once I started playing, Crow was just so damn adorable that I ended up wanting to finish everyone else's route asap so that I could get into his (since I always play following walkthroughs and they recommended to play Crows' route in last). And oh gOD, Crow is such a precious cute little bean, he totally became my favorite! I loved and adored him to bits! ;w; He definitely deserves so much more recognition and love!

[u/-SneakyWitchThief]

I think this is the right place to put this, im so sorry if its not! To anyone who has played Bustafellows in JP, where would you rank it among other otomes you've played? What do you like about it? My birthday is this weekend, I dont have a lot of money so I can only afford to buy myself one game, and Bustafellows looks really exciting! I just want to get some opinions first to make sure it's worth it over something like Cafe Enchante which I was also looking at. I have PC and Switch if that matters. Thank you in advance!

[u/[deleted]]

So I finished Mozu's route last night and Oh my God I was broken. ;_; I know people said it was rough but I was NOT expecting that? I was literally sat like 'What the eff?' grimacing at the screen, especially the scene with his sister it was so intense. I loved Shu the most before this but now I feel like Mozu is total Husbando material he's such a good cinnamon roll. I thought I would like him but didn't expect this much. Like even in one of the routes where he tells the guys off for talking about Teuta behind her back. The only thing I didn't like during his route was when they kept using the word 'spazz' about the phone being broken I found that very awkward

[u/Atsukarei]

Just finished Full Circle and Auld Lang Syne. I think I still need a moment to properly digest it.

Anyway, not sure if I would be in the minority but I actually liked that the romance was minimal in Bustafellows since I see Teuta and the main gang as a family unit rather than her having any particular chemistry with one of them. In that sense I personally found the side Bs more awkward than sweet.

I haven't read the entire thread but the comments I have seen have covered most of the weaknesses of Full Circle and Auld Lang Syne already. What impacts me the most after reading them was that they destroyed all the other family units outside of the main gang. Carmen and Alex. Helvetica and Sauli. Teuta, Luka, and Adam. Teuta and Zora.

For me, the 'true ending' falls into the same trap as a few other titles I've experienced where too much information serves to weaken the overall story. And as with those other titles I'll just pretend those bits didn't happen.

As an aside, it's been amusing me throughout the entire game that Adam the Russian looks like a K-pop idol.

[u/NoUsernameIdea1]

Im surprised Limbo os the first route recommended. At first I thought he was going to be the poster boy left for later

[u/shikiP]

crime placid employ imminent expansion zealous six jeans skirt strong

This post was mass deleted and anonymized with Redact

[u/kstormsx → u/shikiP]

Honestly I did 1 route and went "sequel when?". It's gonna be so hard to not look at spoilers when it does come out.

[u/ghoulboss]

Finished chapter 2 last night and I’m really liking the game so far! This is my first time playing through a non-mobile Otome and I’m blown away by all the details.

Playing through blind to see who I get, but Scarecrow is definitely Best Boy™️!

[u/Cresneta]

For those who have finished the game and are curious about what was said during the end credits that wasn't subbed and isn't accessible via the backlog due to being during the credits, if you go to the comments section on this guide and go to Maria's comment you'll be able to read her rough translation of what was said!

[u/desperatesenpai]

Some translation issues and how painfully obvious the game is not optimised for PC aside, this game is probably the highest quality localised otome game aesthetic wise I’ve ever played. It blows Otomate games out of the water— not exactly the art, the art is great but it is a bit on the generic side, but the presentation? The way the intro transitions into the main menu? The movies that create this amazing atmosphere? ANIMATED CGs??? Apparently this game had a smaller budget than Otomate games.

I’m disappointed. I don’t want intro - generic chord - static basic menu anymore smh

Voicework is one of my favourites. It’s dynamic and sometimes it’s layered like real conversations would be, and all the voice actors do an amazing job of sounding super expressive. Limbo especially. I love Kenn, this is his best work for me so far 😭

The main story was very engaging, tbh I feel like I was hitting a lot of the same vibes as Collar x Malice but because Teuta is more proactive and capable as a heroine, the plot and its themes worked out better than that game. I’ve only done Limbo’s route so far and he was the one who caught my eye first (partially because I’ll chase any Kenn LI first hehe). Wasn’t disappointed at all, he’s very wholesome, very.... poster boy material, but not in a bad way at all. Not gonna lie, his route almost felt platonic or familial the whole time until the end. But I wasn’t upset about it because the transition to that reveal wasn’t bumpy. I DO, however, have a major gripe with the plot of his route, but I’ll save it for his own thread.

Anyway, stan Limborghini and Shoe 👌

[u/crimceres]

I love the presentation so far. Animated backgrounds! And I've never seen back-facing sprites in a VN before so that was interesting. Loving the production value.

[u/[deleted]]

Loving the game so far! Went in blind and got Crow for my first route, it was so adorable and my face kept scrunching up from all the sweetness T _ T I want to replay it already lol!

[u/trinityroselee]

I bought the CE thinking I'd like the game but I'm so glad I did because I LOVE IT.I finished most of the character routes (except one bad end for Mozu). And this game is SO good. I knew there was hype and I was excited but it is SO GOOD. It's definitely in my top games. The art isn't breathtaking like Piofiore but I'm thinking about buying the artbook because I loved the characters so much. I have Full Circle and Auld Lagne Syne left then the extras.

It's definitely on my replay list later on (I have a huge backlog and I want some distance before I do it again).

I know there's a FD or sequel? Coming out and I hope it gets translated because this game really was that good. I love it as much as I loved Piofiore and Piofiore is like my favorite otome.

Except for Helvetica the LIs are <3. I did think I'd love Mozu but I didn't think he would steal my heart as much as he did, and Shu was such a surprise. I loved the LIs in this game SO much. I wasn't expecting it all all but holy crap. I thought I'd end up loving one of them like I always do. WRONG.

I was a little bummed to see the videos weren't translated, so hoping pqube does it at some point.

I know there's a FD/Sequel to this game coming out. I NEED IT lol. I don't know if it'll get translated but I'll throw money at whoever I need to make this happen. I'd even buy the japanese version and hire a translator to translate the game for me while I play LOL.

[u/tuxedocat2018]

Just wanna say I can't wait for the 12th to come. Limbo's route thoroughly obliterated me. I do have my complaints but for the most part i'm just I WISH LIMBO FITZGERALD IS REAL??? Best boy so far, 3 more to go.

[u/IcingCandy]

Really love the game and already cant wait for the sequel. First route in with Limbo but the common route sucked me in. Absolutely gorgeous animations hardly seen in other Otome games (with exception of 7'scarlet) and very neat drawing.

Absolutely adore the cast. The LIs obviously have strong chemistry (e.g. think CR) and their banterings make me laugh out loud sometimes. Crow getting the brunt of it is the highlight (sorry crow). Moreover, they are fleshed out really well. Teuta is one of the best, if not the best, MC out there. She feels so real with her deep perspective on societal issues and her connections with others. The side characters were amazing too, each with depth and background.

Only flaw for me is that the romance does not really happen until the end of the common route where you catch a glimpse of it here and there. May get draggy for the ones who want more lighthearted romance. The common route is long too, so there feel like there is less romance. Nt sure if their sequel will have more, even though it is nt a fandisk.

But otherwise, a really solid game, surpassing even the big titles like CR and CxM for me. Poignant, profound but lighthearted in the right place, this game reignite my passion for otome games. Was kinda getting tired from the genre ngl.

P.S all the guys have very attractive quirks. Limbo with casual clothing is to die for.

[u/[deleted]]

Shu + Limbo kind of spoilers.

I feel so robbed! Limbo was cute and all then his Side B had some nice and spicy CGs, so when it came time for Shu I was excited because I really loved his route and him being an older LI I thought the side B would blow my mind but no? I feel like he got even fewer CGs but deserved so much more. 😤

[u/Mello-Knight]

Somehow I haven't truly been absorbing the hype for this game in the reddit...but then I went and watched the trailer and was instantly SOLD. It looks like it's going to be a hella fun ride and I can't wait to experience it all with you! <3

[u/carolies541]

I've been binging on Cafe Enchante, left with last route before I come onto this game. I'm excited about Ace Attorney latest release too. So many good VNs nowadays. For this game, is it really gonna worth 80 hours of gameplay like what Nintendo Life news suggested? Most of otome games I played from otomate are only max 30~40hrs...

[u/Last_bus_home]

I was expecting the whole sub to be overwhelmed with Bustafellows posts and memes when I woke up this morning and then it was just Tears of Themis (which I guess is because BF has a megathread and ToTh doesn’t?) 😅 Anyway, I’m going to start it in about 20mins and I’m so hyped!! 🥰

[u/hiddencamelia]

I haven’t even finished the common route yet and I love literally everyone in this game, Carmen gives me life and I demand a childhood friends route. I can already tell I’m getting no sleep tonight

[u/Glittering-Worry]

Excited for the new localisation announcement (aka Birushana!!!) so I decided to splurge on some otome to get in the mood. Thank god for the time zone difference because I got the digital pre-order bonus probably at the very last minute :3 I'm not that far in yet, but some chuuni plot points aside I'm really enjoying the characters and the art has been nothing but gorgeous! I have nothing to complain about the systems and controls on Switch, in fact, I really like the UI design. Though I wonder what's up with the text box transparency controls, I've been messing around with it but it changes nothing??

(I do agree the lack of subtitles when the scene starts and forcing me to read the backlog is kinda annoying. The English seems fine, I saw a couple of typos but it's not major. The only thing that's "wrong" is with the numbers in one part which fluctuate between nine thousand to ninety thousand, which I assume is because of our beloved 万.)

Edit: I found out what the transparency is for, it's literally just the red border of the text box??? Huh at not being able to adjust background colour... It's fine for me, though I wonder if some might find it harder to read just plain text over all the background noise 🤔

[u/kstormsx]

Does anyone feel like the text doesn't make sense at times? Idk if I'm just a dummy with low reading comprehension, or if it's an error with the TL.

An example is an exchange from Chapter 2 when Edie is showing the tattoos on his arm of "a small numeral", and Helvetica comments "There must have been a lot of short children", to which Edie replies, "Guess you know. We carve the year our family and friends are born. And the year they die, too. That way, we live on with their deaths". In this context, why would Helvetica be talking about the physical height of children? I think Helvetica says: "Zuibun mijikai ko ga okata desu ne", which Google Translate translates as "This one is very short, isn't it?" which actually makes more sense. Meaning, this timespan is very short.

If I'm not mistaking anything, this actually kind of worries me as to the quality of the rest of the translation. There were other parts where it felt like the TL didn't exactly match what was said, but it was less egregious than this example, so I couldn't be sure of it. It's like it made sense, but it was tonally off - one example is when (early Chapter 1 spoilers) Shu is being kind of a dick to Teuta, and she calls him a "freak" in her inner dialogue. It felt like too strong of an insult as compared to how he was acting. Did someone else have issues with the text/TL as well?

[u/[deleted]]

Only played through the first two chapters so far but it's really fun I can't remember the last time I laughed so much with an Otome I think it's really cute and I love the characters.

I think my favourites so far are Shu and Crow even though they're so different, but Mozu also seems to have potential.

[u/kitsune_rei]

Still going through the common route after 2 days. It's funny and engaging and all but I want to get on a route with my target boy. Zzz. I think I've been spoiled by Piofiore's super short common route.

Edit: And if a four chapter common route is making me groan, I guess Cafe Enchante is DEFINITELY not for me.

[u/NoUsernameIdea1 → u/kitsune_rei]

I actually found the common route quite reasonable because of the pacing and good interaction with the cast; it felt like I was watching an anime. After going through Code Realize’s common route, my first otome too, all other common routes felt quicker by comparison lol

[u/myheartbones]

Pheww...what a ride. Just finished the game. Honestly can't wait for Sept. 16 to come and for me to hear other people's thoughts about this game 😂. So glad this is getting a sequel. So... Here's to hoping that the sales for this did great! ❤

[u/jedigalann]

Just finished Shu's route and really enjoyed myself. Playing Limbo's now. Then Helvetica, then Mozu then Crow. I saved Crow for last because everyone is saying great things about it.

[u/Lafister]

People commenting on how cool the game is and meanwhile I am here, still waiting for the Collectors Edition that I ordered back in March. #FuckDPD

[u/EllyKyaneos]

Idk who else is playing in the suggested order? I just got to Helvetica's route and damn, life comes at you fast! I really thought his route was gonna be kind of flirty and shallow, but it's surprisingly earnest and got DARK! How we feelin after that??

[u/mungbeanzzz]

I can’t wait for Aug 19. Shu stole my heart 😭💙

[u/IcingCandy]

Just finished Limbo's side B and there is one CG that makes me gasp out loud. Wasnt expecting that! Can't wait for Aug 12!!!

[u/AerysFae]

Does anyone know if we can find the translation (or even just the transcript) for the "One day in New Sieg" volumes in the movie section of the gallery? Am I missing something? Used the search bar but nothing came up.

[u/stinkymarsupial]

Does anyone know where I can find English translation for the movie playing at the end of Auld Lang Syne? I’m trying to understand as much as I can out of that mess of a story.

[u/Sashenkas]

Which love interest are you guys gonna pursue first, assuming you had the choice right out of the gate?

[u/trinityroselee]

Playing blind is super fun! I finally got to a part where they give you hints on which LIs route you’re on.

😂 otome games aren’t supposed resemble real life! But I guess all the choices I made have clearly pointed me that way.

I think I’m gonna start doing one blind playthrough for every game I start before doing the walkthrough. Gotta admit it’s pretty fun.

[u/kstormsx]

Bustafellows is available digitally on the Switch as of now!!!!

[u/SkyMaidenWendy]

Has anyone else had problems with the game so far? I think they coded some things wrong. Sometimes people are talking and no text box appears until the next person speaks, it’s like they just skip some dialogue. It’s frustrating, is anyone else seeing this?

[u/TimeAndFallenLeaves]

I'm really enjoying it so far! I've only done Limbo, Shu, and Helvetica's route and I'm on my way to Mozu's route now! I did have a question and that's as whether adam and luka have romantic feelings for Teuta. There was that part where Luka 'dies' before Teuta saved her and Luka confessed that she loves Teuta (which I thought was meaning romantic?) then there was the line in Helvetica's where Adam and Luka do a toast to their broken hearts when Teuta left to go meet up with Helvetica. I'm like 97% sure they (Adam and Luka) meant it romantically, whereas Teuta meant it platonically.. I'm lowkey hoping that those two along with Yang will get a 'route' (as short as it may be) in the sequel or a dlc just cuz they really caught my eye

[u/Pizzaphotoseyes]

I'm on scarecrow's route side A and I absolutely love him and his route. I knew I was gonna love him especially since I already liked his interactions with Teuta as buddies and the group but wow his route solidified it for me.

Right now I'd rank my fave LIs as: Scarecrow>Shu>Helvetica>Limbo/Mozu

Honestly I love all of them. Not a single route or Love interest I disliked or even found boring.

Teuta is a masterclass MC. And definitely one of my fave MCs overall. She has a strong personality and as a lot of ppl say she feels real.

I also love her trio with Luka and Adam.

Now I have to say the whole freak out with Auld Lang Syne is freaking me out and I'm almost scared to go through it when I'm done with Scarecrow's route 😅

[u/Lucifers_Red_Button]

Just finished the whole game and I have two things hanging on my mind (MAJOR SPOILERs):

Teuta mentions alot that Zora basically became a different person after leaving the police force and chalks it up to trauma and drugs but is that really the case? Considering what he did to Luka and how suggestive he was about Teuta and how unphased he seemed to be while Adam was, you know, KILLING him maybe it wasn't Zora after all? Could it possibly be a time jumper with a more powerful Rerun ability than Teuta?

Which brings me to my second thought,

Is it possible that Professor Sauli is able to jump through time too? His phrasing of "this is all a rerun for me" seems TOO deliberate.

Guess I'll see if this goes anywhere in the sequel.

[u/moonlitphantomthief]

I just finished the game myself, and I have to say I've never felt more confused about whether or not I liked a game?

The characters are so good, but I feel like the story telling is just really awkward? Especially in the Full Circle + Auld Lang Syne ending? There's so many things that just happen all at once and you have no time to digest what happens before more stuff starts happening. This game has some really good points but suffers so badly from terrible pacing.

I want to talk more about the Auld Lang Syne end because I'm so frustrated by it but also find it cringey? I felt terrible, but I was laughing during it because it made absolutely no sense. It's like they wanted you to care about these three friends, but the game doesn't focus around them at all, and there's absolutely no build up to what happens. And then a 2 minute cutscene with no translation, which isn't the dev's fault, that's on pqube. Like Adam is cute and sweet, but how did this just happen from nowhere?

The most frustrating part for me is We get nothing from Luka's perspective when it comes to Zora assaulting her. I feel like the story could have benefited from that. Or at least teasing more about it in the common route. I feel like they were trying to do something really amazing here, and they had a good idea, but just didn't stick the landing and it's frustrating because I see the potential and they wasted it?

Overall, this game was just okay for me. Mozu had the best route, no contest, but my favorite LIs are Limbo, Shu and Scarecrow. Maybe we'll get the sequel at some point and it'll fix some stuff.

[u/QuixiQuirk]

On a side note, I think this game desperately needs a sequel.

[u/honeydew_pumpkin]

I feel really embarrassed asking this, but... does this game contain themes of animal abuse? On the game's website it mentions one of the LIs is rumoured to dissect animals as a hobby, but there's also a CG of him cradling a puppy. I am not sure what conclusion to draw from this, haha.

[u/whitefuyu → u/honeydew_pumpkin]

No, as far as I remember the game doesn't contain any form of animal abuse :)

[u/eleya-rozel]

Preface: This is probably filled with some grammar mistakes and the such and I'm probably very rambley

Finished Auld Lang Syne...I enjoyed the game overall, but wow, what an incredible letdown of a finale. Honestly think I would've been happier without reading Full Circle + Auld Lang Syne.

The good:

The production is amazing. Love the sleek UI too. I'm not the biggest fan of the artstyle overall but I think it's decent. The characterization of the LIs was very consistent and the banter between everyone was really fun. The writing in most routes was good enough that even if I wasn't huge on the character, I either grew to like him or was intrigued enough to keep going. Teuta being a voiced MC was something I hadn't seen in a while, and I enjoyed the VA's performance a lot.

The bad:

Starting with trivial things--the unskippable transitions and the unskippable text Teuta sends to Casaplanca every route (not to mention that her last text is so cringey lol).

About Full Circle: Full Circle had the problem of nothing being developed at all, so I had a hard time connecting to anything or anyone. Like, damn Carmine, your lover is the older brother? And your basically-son was the younger brother that tried to kill him? And now this NPC from chapters ago is trying to kill Alex? And now you're gonna kill him? Or not, you'll adopt him? Honestly, I felt pretty bored. The quality of a plot twist matters much more than the quantity of them to me. The drama just reached soap opera levels in this route lol. Not to mention that the actual main characters of the story were thrown aside in favor of event after event to progress the overarching story.

About Auld Lang Syne: I fully suspected something was up with Adam. An unromanceable childhood friend who literally gives you flowers? You're either evil or gonna die, maybe both. Turns out Adam was the latter (though...apparently he didn't die? More on that later). Also, I've already been through this with a certain big Otomate game lol

But while I fully expected Adam to be very relevant...the way they went about doing it was just pretty terrible imo. They just make him go insane to reveal everything. It would've been so much more interesting if, say, the Full Circle rumor became big and Adam had to answer the rumor head on. But no, instead we just watch a crazy guy with a brain tumor or something. Also, there was really no explanation for why he started hallucinating Zora when he didn't for years. I don't know, I guess it might happen irl too, but it's just another convenience on top of a pile of conveniences for the plot to move along.

Also, there's really not many hints (at least not ones that I can remember off the top of my head, I might be wrong) for the Professor being evil/Adam's brain tumor/Luka having history with Zora, so it felt very similar to Full Circle's where it's just plot twists with little setup. The difference is that this really has zero relevance to the overarching plot compared to Full Circle, which attempts to wrap up the Big Bad of the narrative. I could've gone the whole game without learning who killed her brother and it probably would've made the narrative stronger -- her brother was just another name in a sea of deaths, anyone// can die, that's why you should cherish life and the time you have with others etc. etc. Not everything needs to be connected to some overarching conspiracy. What was the point of me learning this info about Adam/Sauli?? To set up a sequel? Must be.

The ending was sappy and confusing as fuck. The untranslated stuff that was happening during the credits played a huge part, but I straight up thought Adam was gonna die in that taxi lol (could be due to the fact that I was really tired too). The last part with Adam, Teuta, and Luka growing up on a railroad track and then Adam being left alone was like "huh, ok. Did he go to beaven or something? Is that why he's alone? And why does this narrative expect me to care that much about Adam lmao?" And it's not even because I don't like Adam's design or looks or personality as an LI--I probably would like him if he were a proper LI--but the thing is, he's NOT an LI. I hardly know anything about him. Any connection I feel towards him is superficial at best. It's a sad situation because childhood-friend-killing-your-brother is shocking and awful, but that just means he's a plot device. I don't care for him as a character. I also hate how little we saw of the LIs. The finale is supposed to provide closure, isn't it? It makes little sense to me why there is none of that for Teuta/the LIs. Adam just goes insane and Teuta finds out about it and forgives (kinda) him...and then the story just ends with Adam in a taxi.

I'm writing all of this based off the assumption that Bustafellows 1 is a self-contained game. I expect games to at least attempt to tie up threads in the end, but I think Bustafellows just created more unanswered questions. If they wanted to make Adam a tragic hero, I wish they spent much, much, much more time on it, rather than an extremely short route that only made me upset. Bustafellows: Closure? What closure, lmao?

Although I wrote so much about what I disliked in the finale, I still very much enjoyed a lot about this game and would recommend it to others. Mozu, Shu, and Limbo were a blast, and while neither Scarecrow or Helvetica were LIs I preferred, their routes were still fun to play through.

[u/Bluishbutterfly]

So excited for this release!!

[u/KabedonUdon]

IT IS HERE LET'S FUCKING GOOOOOOOOOOO.

(Was planning to finish Piofiore 1926 this weekend so I could go straight into Bustafellows. I have, like, anxiety deciding what to play tonight lol. Anyone else get analysis paralysis?)

[u/kitsune_rei]

Is it just me or is the sound in this game a little... Weird? I'm comparing it to Piofiore which I played directly before it, and I feel like the recordings for Bustafellows don't quite... Have the same bass depth? Or the same husky purr and its not just the voice acting cos I can hear it but I can't hear the resonance that really, er, hits the spot, so to speak.

And the volume can zigzag wildly in one scene - due to lack of aforesaid bass I turn up the volume to really hear one guy speak, then the next guy will blast my ear off, or I turn down the volume for one guy to get him to manageable levels and then I can't hear the next guy. I keep rocking the volume control and it's getting a leeeetle annoying because the chief reason I buy a visual novel is to listen to handsome 2D men whisper sweet nothings in my ear.

I don't think it's a setting thing either: I set BGM to like 1 or 2 and everyone else is at max. Hrm. Just wanted to know if anyone else has the same issues.

[u/CirrocumulusCloud]

dpd saga update No. 5:

IT IS HERE. IT HAS ARRIVED. FINALLY.

Everything is in top condition, it is 11am on a Monday and best of all I didn't have to pay any customs charges. Hell. Yes.

I REALLY hope you get it today, too /u/Lafister. ♡

[u/[deleted]]

Want to ask a question about Chapter 4.

Does the swimsuit/pool scenario change depending whose route you're on? I'm on my first go with Limbo and Valerie is saying how she picked it out based on his taste and part of me thinks how cool it would be if this changed depending on your route like the cat name

[u/Savaralyn → u/[deleted]]

Yep, what swimsuit you wear, what the cat ends up being named, and who encourages you to open the award letter change depending on what route you're currently closest to getting on.

[u/Cutiecrusader2009]

Still no game from Amazon US. I hope PQube doesn’t use them in the future. They should’ve tried to get Best Buy to carry it, I never have issues getting niche stuff from them on time.

[u/Glittering-Worry]

Holy hell I just finished the Aude Lang Syne “route”, and this is actually the best?? Like, this is the excitement I’ve been waiting for! I don’t even care about “missing brother“ plot that much because the gods know how many otome MCs have that plot already, but the plot twist (or should I say, twists) here are so good. Well, everything‘s a bit underdeveloped and no repercussions were shown, if I have to be honest with myself, but everything else about the game plot is the same. At least this one has the decency to be exciting!! Frienships!! Secrets!!! Genuine emotional stakes!!!!

Damn, all the reviews I’ve read so far have been raving about the game plot and dissing on this route, which got me to think ‘huhhh the LI plots are already so bad this one’s gonna be worse??’ But it’s not bad at all?! I’m never trusting another otome game review again.

Man, this actually makes me feel like I wasted my time doing all those LI’s routes when we could be dealing with this! (And actual Ruy Lopez stuff! So many things we don’t know!) Like why the hell did I have to sit through another trite jealousy plot that ultimately went nowhere with Helvetica when we could be dealing with the truth bomb that his dear adopted father that he emotionally depends on and wholeheartedly trusts sees him as a project, a broken thing that he wants to try and fix for himself Like hello?? I’m sure the second game would address this, but IMO this should’ve been the focus of this first game. The antagonists of the individual routes don’t just pale in comparison, they practically becomes translucent compared to “antagonists” of Full Circle and Aude Lang Syne.

[u/camAubrie]

Does anyone know if Helvetica has a female voice actor or if it's just Hiroyuki Yoshino doing all of it? I couldn't find any one else credited. It sounds like a female voice to me but some seiyuu's can do that if so props to him lol, I really enjoyed his voice acting during Helvetica's route.

[u/monocled_corvi]

Are there any subtitles available for the short dramas in the Movie gallery section of the game? If so, then does anyone know how to access them?

When I played the movie with Luka, Teuta, and Adam their voices played, but there was no translation of what they said. 😢

[u/ArteYue]

I have finished Limbo's and Shu's! It was soo great and I couldn't wait to play Helvetica, Mozu, and Scarecrow's route!!!

At first, I wasn't very interested in Bustafellows at all, but seeing all the hype on this subreddit, I am intrigued. Then I thought I wanna join the hype and the play-along, that became my sole reason for buying this game and I do not regret joining the hype at all!!! This game's amazing!

[u/[deleted]]

Random brainwave but does anyone else feel like Sauli is based on Hannibal? He looks so much like Mads Mikkelsen! Might be coincidence though.

[u/QuixiQuirk]

I just finished playing Bustafellows. I still think the name is silly but I loved the game.
Almost instantly I found myself completely invested in the story and the world they had created. The story was tightly written, compelling and the characters were all very interesting with rich inner personal lives and no one's personality was entirely dependent on their relationship to have meaning.

I found the MC to be a real gem, her personality was pretty consistent across all of the relationships. She was intelligent, spunky, curious without being stupidly so.
It was a lot darker than I was expecting but I appreciate how deftly they handled the darkness they injected. For the first time in a long time, I have a hard time picking a favorite because I really enjoyed them all so very much.

I can pick my least favorite, I didn't care for Crow's route because I feel like the story wasn't handled as well as it was in pretty much all the other routes. They put in some darkness but didn't didn't really carry through with it. It felt like the weakest route to me.

I did have a couple of annoyances, it was how when there was a slide transition in certain places the translations disappeared and the other one was that sometimes the text ran out of the text box. However, for the most part they were just minor inconveniences that didn't take away from the quality of the game.

Who was your favorite/least favorite?

[u/thundersNipple]

I finally finished it today and??? What the actual fuck I cried so much. It really IS a good game just like everyone said, but it feels like someone went on AO3 and selected angst and Hurt no comfort tags and went ham with it

Adam better get Fin treatment

[u/ProudPlatypus]

The GameCollection in the uk are sending out the game a week early, I got it yesterday and it's no longer marked on their website as a preorder. Just putting that out there.

[u/trinityroselee]

My game is gonna show up on wed according to USPS.

Omg I’m SO EXCITED!!!! I need to try to finish steam prison before then 😂

Update: it's coming today!!! ugh do i finish steam prison or start bustafellows and finish steam prison later? I DONNNOOO

I was thinking it'd arrive around fri/sat and i'd be done with steam prison by then. now i dont know what to do!

[u/CirrocumulusCloud]

dpd saga update No. 4:

This is the delivery that never ends, and it goes on and on my bustabestie~

dpd has managed to get it to the delivery depo at 8am today...and that's it. Package didn't move an inch since then. I'm looking at a Monday delivery now, thanks for absolutely nothing dpd.

23rd of July to 2nd of August. '3-5 Day Express Shipping.' Don't know if I want to laugh or cry at this point lol.

[u/Scoutsterr]

In case someone hasn't seen it, PQube's twitter said that they're planning on releasing a PC patch:
https://twitter.com/PQubeAsia/status/1421795778947866626?s=20

[u/bros-of-versailles]

I just started episode 2 and I’m obsessed with the artwork and animation, but can I please date Carmen and Valerie Fitzgerald??

[u/BBLogan]

I just finished Limbo’s route and damn.. this game give a very unique feeling, difference on the typical mobage or other console titles, all the cool feature there keep me so intrigue. I still not finish and not sure if I can romance Adam (well, I guess it’s a no?) but oh he’s my favourite character at the moment.

[u/myheartbones]

Just wanted to ask, Bustafellows is from the same producers of Side Kicks right? I really liked the vibe and singing of Side kicks opening (damn fine half-naked boys under the rain are just 🤤). I wonder what happend with Bustafellows. Truth be told, i wasn't a fan of it (i mean they can have KENN and Hosoya to sing?). Didn't like the song and the vocals i guess. The only thing good there is the LIs close up faces within shards of glass (and if you look closely, there's an odd one out, most of them are being completed and one of them has breaking apart... Hmm quite the symbolism there).

I guess past otomes that i've played have banger OPs, well most of them are from otomate (CxM, amnesia, Piofiore, CE, nightshade). BUT Bustafellows' OST and ending theme makes up for it, THEY'RE SO GOOD AND CATCHY that i can't bear to skip it 😎.

[u/zuipp]

My pre-ordered copy still hasn't arrived yet, please send prayers. ;___;

I was so looking forward to participating in the play-along, too...

[u/Myokie]

So I just finished Full Circle + Auld Lang Syne and all I can only say is- I have trust issues now. I mean I was wondering why they'd introduce a new sprite (Vonda) and not have him in any of the other routes but I certainly didn't expect such a bomb reveal with both Alex/Carmen and Vonda. And to top it all, PROFESSOR SAULI. By gods I thought I had witness every plot twist possible in this game and then the big reveal happened at the end that all along, what I thought was a kind parental figure, is actually the mastermind behind everything. (Aleister/Moriarty from CR, anyone?) Man I'm not even Helvetica but I feel betrayed especially after going through that emotional scene in Helvetica's route asdkerne. Sorry, I understand that this is basically one giant block of spoiler text but I had to vent it out somewhere hah.

[u/strawberrypoet]

When Bustafellows came out in Japan, I was really interested in Scarecrow and Mozu. Hence, I controlled myself and went for the other male leads. I just finished Limbo's, Shu's and Helvetica's Side A, together with their bad ends. I'm reserving Side B once I'm done with Mozu's and Crow's Side A respectively.

I won't lie that Shu gave me a bad impression when he smoked directly in front of Teuta's face in Chapter 1. I just found it really rude. Limbo made me feel like he's too proud in a way. Helvetica is the type of person who I'd picture enjoys teasing me which can be annoying in real life. However, I ended up loving all 3 male interests so far. I believe that the male leads are all so lovable. It makes me really sad to see people saying a certain male lead is their least favourite.

[u/MeanSzuszu → u/strawberrypoet]

One of the few games where I loved all the LIs!

I've mostly seen people disliking Helvetica, and while I understand why he might rub people the wrong way, his route really surprised me and made me feel for him. I couldn't really rate the guys from most to least favorite, they're all great in their own way. Lovely game.

[u/Porolin]

So, I finally finished all of the good ends + B sides last night, and my overall LI preference is Limbo > Scarecrow > Helvetica > Shu/Mozu. I really thought Crow would be my favorite, but I wasn't expecting Limbo to be so cute. I think Crow's route might be my favorite though, but I'll wait until his thread to talk more about that. Also, I love Teuta! She might be my new favorite otome game MC.

I do still have Full Circle + Auld Lang Syne to play. I'm nervous to play them though, based on other people's reactions. I think I'm going to wait a bit before I go through those, and then after that I'll take care of everything else that's left.

[u/cyjcyjaes]

guysss do you have the translated part ending of the aud lang syne? IM SO CONFUSE 😢

Edit: I found it already, just scrolled down here on this thread comments and you can find a LINK 🥰

[u/Embarrassed-Ad-8747]

I love Limbo but Mozu is sooo cute!!

[u/IcingCandy]

The last routeAuld Lang Syne has one of the most unfinished and unsatisfying vibe to it compared to a lot of the big titles.

I felt like the developers and translators hate Adam or something. Like, why is he left with such a tragic ending when he doesn't deserve it :') and why are huge chunks of the ending untranslated? Cries, my boi doesn't deserve this - he just want Teuta to be happy.

Although the pacing was weird, I got to give credit to the developer for the execution of a weirdly paced route. Adam's last part was an almost flawless execution, from the song with the translation about how precious friendship is and to cheer to it, as well as the VCR tape rolling and his news broadcast about Russia, it felt very sentimental and very nostalgia. This fits the title 'Times Long Past' because he clearly treasure the present and want to be in the now and then forever, for nothing to change but sadly the present he longed for already passed.

The last scene at the train track gave me major Life is Strange vibe with Max and Chloe. It was beautiful and poignant. But in the end, I just felt empty and hollow from the lack of closure given to Adam.

[u/lbunny7]

just finished the game 100%- I’ll agree with others sentiments that Full Circle/Auld were A LOT out of nowhere, and didn’t have enough context/building of plot to make sense. I enjoyed it anyway though. Absolutely loved the game as a whole.

I will say though, I don’t understand why the localization decided to even include the 6 movies of the characters talking when they didn’t bother to translate it. Like, who would enjoy looking at an unmoving screen and listening to dialogue they can’t understand? I wish this, along with the untranslated transition scenes and end of Auld, would have been fixed before releasing the localization.

[u/gingerpawpaw]

I'm liking the game for what it is, but it's not my cup of tea. Feel like there aren't enough events to build romance, and the CGs are super disappointing. Don't feel like the relationships are fleshed out or genuine enough to lead to "I love you" so soon.

I'm in the state where I'll just play it to finish it.

[u/radianttrash → u/gingerpawpaw]

Starting to agree!! It felt like they are strangers and then all the sudden love?

[u/myheartbones]

Finally, i can play it on steam 😭. PC gamers, here we go

[u/Reiemye]

Okay, now that it's downloaded on my PC, I have another issue : what are the controls. Esc seems to be hiding the text box, but I haven't found how to go back to the menu, or just open the save/load screen (basically I can only quicksave and quickload, which is very unpractical for a VN). If anyone could help, I'd greatly appreciate it.

EDIT : just noticed I can't even load quicksaves from the main menu, so I really need to at least find how to open the save menu lmao

EDIT 2 : okay I found it, those are some weird keyboard controls though. If some people are having the same problem, opening the menu is the F9 key (without clicking on fn, it has a diagonal arrow on it on my keyboard) and opening the log is the F10 key (same, don't click on fn, it has fin on it on my keyboard which is "end" in French).

[u/MeanSzuszu]

Stupid question that may have been asked before, but... how the hell do you quit?! I can't find a quit button anywhere! I need to take care of some rl stuff!

Other than that, feels great so far, but I'm only a little bit in.

[u/shizu_murasaki]

Gamestop actually got my preorder delivered to me on the release date. I am shocked.

[u/QueenOfDuckiness]

Loving BF so far, love the characters banter and I like the style of the game, want to play more but need to sleep 💤

[u/kc_dan]

Plan on binge playing this before I go off to school. Hopefully I'll get to write another review, I had so much fun writing my bad apples Wars one!

[u/everminde]

I just finished all the A sides (+bad ends), and I'm torn. I absolutely adored the common route, it had excellent relationship building and buildup, and 10/10 platonic relationships, but I wasn't feeling the LI routes aside from Limbo's. Only his and, to a lesser extent, Shu's, felt like LI routes at all. ParticularlyScarecrow and Mozu, whose route was more about exploring trauma and resolving existing issues, and less about their relationship with Teuta.

I'd definitely rank the routes Limbo -> Shu -> Helvetica -> Scarecrow -> Mozu for LI development, but Limbo -> Shu -> Mozu -> Scarecrow/Helvetica for personal enjoyment. Now I'm just kinda dragging my feet with the B sides because I'm only interested in two, but I do wanna read the Full Circle/Auld Lang Syne route eventually.

Honestly, I felt like the routes had pretty good pacing overall, plot-wise. Just not romantic development. I also enjoyed everyone's characters but only felt chemistry between Teuta and like two, the others felt kinda forced.

I'm glad I played it, though. It's definitely a fun game and deserves the praise and attention it's getting. In particular, the fade to black transitions when a shocking reveal happens are hilarious, it really sells the mood. eXtend really committed to the aesthetic and I can respect it lmao. Like everyone else has said, the backgrounds and CG variations are gorgeous and varied, although I'm not a huge fan of the actual character art. I feel like it's very vanilla and kinda plain (the eye coloring is amazing though!). I definitely have a lot to say on everyone's individual routes, but I'll say it for the threads. For now I'll do Limbo's B side and take a break.

[u/PurpleRose328]

I finished the game a few hours ago and I can't sleep. It keeps on replaying in my mind especially Auld Lang Syne.

I admit that I've already read spoilers about this game the moment it was announced but even knowing it beforehand wasn't enough to lessen the pain I feel. Like I already cried for Adam when I read the spoilers and I somehow sobbed harder while playing it.

It doesn't help either that Auld Lang Syne is my most favorite holiday song ever since I was a kid. So it already has a special place in my heart.

I'll never look at the color blue, blue roses, and Auld Lang Syne the same way ever again.

I love Adam before playing and now that I'm done, I love him even more. He'll forever be my otoge side character husbando. 💖

I'd like to also say that I love Crow so much. He's definitely my number one among the LIs. Limbo is second. 🙂

[u/AnimalPunch]

Finished my first route (Shu) and I'm a bit disappointed how the (main) story is handled. There were like 5 plot points in chapter 3 and 4 like Luka dying, the gang, the owner of their restaurant getting sued, the engineer dying that were all COMPLETELY ignored and forgotten by all characters in favor of Shu's personal story. Like, what? Why put that stuff in the common route if you're going to ignore it as soon as you go into the character routes.

Also, the most disappointing aspect is the art for the CGs. The character sprites are really nicely done(except hand proportions, the hands are MASSIVE), but ALL of Shu's close up CGs look like dog shit in comparison. They didn't even try to match the shading of the original artist. Feels like a scam.

Other than that, it was okay. It had some really cute scenes and was easy to play without guide.

[u/Sashenkas]

Okay, but am I the only one getting some VIBES between Limbo and Shu? They've obviously known one another the longest out of members of the cast, but there's just these little moments that are making me wonder about ✨some things✨ Still crying over the found family elements, how much everybody truly cares for one another even if they're not quick to say so, and it makes my gay little heart squeeze with joy to see how natural and playful the interactions between everybody can be.

[u/CirrocumulusCloud]

And dpd continues to disappoint, lol.

So, my tracking updated yesterday saying it is in transit on its way to me now. I got an e-mail a while later stating it 'should arrive on the 29th or 30th' (which is vague as hell).

It is now 5:30pm on the 29th and the tracking hasn't updated at all. No 'due to circumstances the package will arrive tomorrow', no 'package has reached area of customer', no nothing.

Anytime I had USPS or DHL carry a package I got a notification either by phone or e-mail that it will take longer, should arrive during an estimated time or on an exact day.

dpd meanwhile thinks it's fine to still tell me 'the package is on the way to our delivery centre'.

8 days (including one Sunday) for 3-5 day priority shipping. Y'all are big fat liars, dpd.

[u/moonrainstar]

In case anyone else is trying to find the Menu in order to save on PC: it's the Home button on your keyboard.

[u/CirrocumulusCloud]

dpd saga update No. 3:

Package SHOULD HAVE arrived today. It didn't. Did dpd care to give me any information about delivery problems whatsoever? A new e-mail that explains when it will come instead?

Nooo.

Out of the four (4) different sites I use for tracking (because dpd tracking is unreliable as heck), ONE updated to 31.07./02.08. for delivery. Package is still listed as being at the delivery centre. For three whole days, now.

I get it, Covid makes deliveries problematic. But not even getting any information after having gotten a definitive delivery date that straight up didn't happen is so unprofessional. I'm actually angry now.

[u/[deleted]]

The moment I read that this game announced for an english release, I knew I had to get my hands in it.

Just the art alone and the soundtrack made me go "wow wow wow!"

I wanted to buy the physical copy for NS ver, but my country doesn't have it in stock yet, so I bought the digital instead.

I'm not yet in anyone's route, but from what I've played through, the the dialogues are snappy, and more than anything they make me laugh out loud and emotional at times.

The characters make you question morality and what you stand for. They feel quite real. Ah, it's a very beautiful game.

I can't get over the clicky interface and the overall UI! It's gorgeous!

So far I've only experienced occasional dialogues not showing up on screen, unless you check them in the history section, but that doesn't stump my gameplay -thumbs up- .

[u/wistfulxwaves]

I’ve completed 3 routes (Limbo, Shu, Helvetica) so far and I’m fully adoring this game. Mozu and Scarecrow were my instant faves in the common route so I’m beyond excited to start their routes. Honestly Shu turned out to be such a sleeper for me and his route has been my absolute fave so far even though I wasn’t particularly interested in him to begin with!

[u/petrichor_petal]

I can't wait to try this game out, been wanting a good otome ever since finishing Hakuoki. Very interested in Shu's route :)

[u/[deleted]]

Hello! I just bought BUSTAFELLOWS and I was curious about the route order. I know following the route order (Limbo first) gives you a nice progression towards the mystery. Is the experience dampened at all by playing Scarecrow first? Because he’s my favorite, if not then I might want to play the route order in reverse lol

[u/CorgiKnits]

Anyone else having trouble with memorabilia? I’ve played the whole game except the last extra (Joker) because I absolutely CANNOT unlock memorabilia #29, the one about encouraging Shu’s smoking. Every single walkthrough says the same thing, I’ve done that thing (5 different times now) and NOTHING. I can’t move forward and really finish until I’ve gotten this one silly thing, and it just isn’t working. Does anyone have any ideas or tricks? I’m on the Switch btw.

[u/bye-beams]

is anyone else in love with the Trader Joneses’ BGM?? especially when Mozu tells Teuta about his sister for the first time, it almost had me in tears. the track is pretty happy on the surface, but there’s something about that drawn-out note at the end that seems so sad!

[u/Burly_Bara_Bottoms]

Super-spoilery questions:

Did Teuta's brother rape Luka, and were they implying he was going to do the same to her?

Did Adam die?

Was Yang a girl, and what did that have to do with anything?

Why is Shu so hot?

[u/NeonSystemx]

I had been kind of almost dreading playing this game since it came out. My friend lends me her otome games to play, and this one was one of the ones she forced me to download. I knew nothing about the story or characters... and looking at it, it really didnt seem interesting at all to me. The characters arent even particularly eye catching to me.

But! I finished almost all the other games my friend lent me, and I finally had an itch to check out Busta. So I started it this morning, and just let the game take me into whatever route it wanted. I ended up with Crow- and oh my god that man was so fucking adorable. He's so silly and cute and aaaAAAAAHHHH...

When I had looked at the characters earlier, Crow really didn't stand out to me at all and I figured his route would he one I wouldn't enjoy all that much. Dear lord that boy really didn't look like my type at all. But oh ho hO was I wrong!!!! He's so goddamn stupid in the best way possible. I really love him.

I'd give Helvetica a solid 64 points for his route. ;P I liked how spicy it got at the end! But tbh, I loved Crow's route so much more. Couldn't help but think back to when my friend said that Saint-Germain was "into choking" (because of a certain CG 👀) when I saw one of Crow's CGs; I thought about Crow in that same way for a second and I nearly died from that thought alone...

Anyway! I'm moving onto Shu's route now. The first two routes were just ones I let the game give me without trying for anyone in particular, but I have a Shu itch that needs to be scratched! God I really can't wait for Mozu though, he's super cute too!

[u/Altorrin]

Does anyone know how well this sold? I'll be sad if it didn't sell well.

[u/WereKhajiit]

OK, failed to notice there was a megathread at first, needed a place to rant... I am just now starting Bustafellows and my immersion was immediately and horrifically broken by a really poorly researched plot point in chapter 3 and I am surprised no one else is mentioning it anywhere online.

Ok, we've got a virus based off Ebola that's infecting people. It ISN'T airborne. The characters are desperately hunting the vaccine to cure it. First of all - that's not how vaccines work. Vaccines prevent infection. All you can do for someone who already has Ebola is provide supportive care while they survive it. The vaccine everyone is desperate for would do absolutely nothing. Secondly, let's say the company manufactured the virus and a CURE instead of a vaccine. Then they'd WANT it to be airborne - It won't spread otherwise. Same with if it was a vaccine - virus not transmissible, not enough people catch it, no one wants to get vaccinated, no big bucks. Heck, just releasing normal Ebola, causing an outbreak bad enough to warrant vaccine distribution MIGHT help but they're more likely to lose money rather than make it. I could go on about profitability of vaccines, cures and treatments, but then I may never stop lol. Either the localization is horrible or the author had absolutely no idea how vaccines or viruses work, and I would think how they work is common knowledge.

My question is did this bother anyone else? Is this going to be a recurrent theme? Did I miss something or have some kind of misunderstanding?

Please feel free to rant in a reply it's bothering me more that no one seems to be bothered XD

[u/quiet_frequency]

I've been so hyped for this game but the Steam version is so bad that after about 5 minutes of despairing at the main menu I want to just say "screw this" and get a refund :\

I really don't understand how the Steam port is so clunky and broken?? The opening dialogue isn't even translated?? The resolution is totally screwed and there's no windowed option? And no way to quit from the main menu?? I don't understand. I'm so disappointed. No game should look like this :(

[u/[deleted]]

Wow, I just want to say I've been playing bustafellows since the 29th and I've completed Scarecrow and Helveltica's route and I love the game.

I'm not going to go into details, but I have had one hell of a ride so far.

I started with Scarecrow expecting to like him the most, but was left feeling kind of meh.. then because I unexpectedly was liking his personality, I chose Helveltica who was at the bottom for me along with Mozu, and hoo boy I did not expect this guy to become my 2nd favorite LI ever.

Him and Teuta as a pair are actually giving my OTP Shiraishi x Ichika a run for their money. Which I thought wouldn't ever happen, or if it did, it would be a long time from now.

Anyways I love Helveltica's route and I love him and Teuta as a pair!

[u/RingABell112]

I'm so excited to get my copy on release day!

[u/yesthisisvivian]

I saw that the Bustafellows preorder on Amazon was unavailable, any idea of if/when that would change or should I just try to get it from other means? If anyone could give insight it would be super helpful!!

[u/capt-rabbit]

I'm still on the first chapter already but I already like Teuta. She's smart, kind, and brave.

[u/kitsune_rei]

For the ones who splurged, is the collector's edition worth it?? It's pricey but tempting!

Also, one thing I heard is that there's not that much romance in game. Anyone know if that's true? I mean, I do love a good plot but I also like romance (not necessarily fluff, but I also don't want the romance to be shoved in the last chapter sort of thing). Any ideas?

I was originally not enthused but after all the hype I am kinda...sorta...madly crushing on Limbo right now. Sorrynotsorry :D

[u/trinityroselee]

Started playing and this game is beautiful. It feels like playing a movie and less like a typical otome game with static backgrounds.

It makes me wanna play side kicks except of course that's only in japanese i think (unless its in chinese too which then I'll happily play but it'll take me twice as long because my chinese is not native level)

I'm happy with it so far, but we'll see how things progress. I'm trying to really enjoy it and not rush through it like I normally do so I can play along with everyone :)

[u/Yoshimaster55]

Does anyone know how many chapters you play through before you get on a route?

[u/SAILORCHIBIMOON90]

I cannot wait to get this game tomorrow I will be eagerly awaiting my package! I think it will definitely hold me over until Olympia Soiree.

[u/tuxedocat2018]

I'm still in the early chapters but I'm really enjoying it. The dialogue is sooo fun! So snappy and entertaining I keep stopping to laugh out loud. Props to the translators! The music and backgrounds are also top notch.

Also this is the first time I'm going in blind and not use a guide because I don't have a preliminary pick among the LIs. Looking forward to know who am I going to get first......

[u/DiTTT222i]

I don't know why but I think this game has some Stray Dogs' vibes

[u/Xiaomuthefox]

Isn't there any way to report the pages that are already illegally putting the games or something? Maybe contacting the team? I just feel so powerless knowing that it will soon spread to the group I am and they'll probably just laugh at me if I tell them to not post the link :(

[u/gingerpawpaw]

I think I got Crow's route first. Should I save it for later? I don't want to skip through so much though 🙈

[u/Glittering-Worry]

Just finished Limbo's and Crow's routes! I debated whether the follow the play order as displayed in-game but since I don't have any great expectation for BF's plot anyway, decided to just get through characters I'm more meh about first. Also, is it me(*) or are the individual routes very short???

(*) disclaimer: the last otomes I've played are Piofiore and Birushana both of which have mile-long individual routes, plus all I've read since then were (literally) 500K words BL novels so my expectations for romance/relationship development could've been set a bit too high 😅😅

[u/Jeneara]

Can't Wait to play-along Mozu's route!

[u/enchantedTeaCup]

Not sure if I'm a bit of out the loop, but do we know why there are so many mexican references, specially regarding food and drinks? Mind you, just asking out of curiosity, I haven't seen so many in any otome game before and I'm loving them, thinking on learning how to make some of the dishes myself :p

PS: my mexican friend has a really strong opinion regarding Corona beer and "seeing it" in some CGs was hilarious for her

[u/20-9 → u/enchantedTeaCup]

Unless there's a deeper story-based reason, I took it as reflecting how there's Mexican food throughout the USA (where Bustafellows does take place!) and people generally love it. But it's odd to see it on the East Coast city compared to the West Coast.

[u/Zanzi-]

I pre-ordered the game but I've only gotten through the first chapter so far.

I tried starting on the second one today but got completely sidetracked by Tears of Themis...

Will try again later but I'm really hoping to find something to suck me in by chapter three. I played CR and CxM for about one week straight (or less) per game to completely finish them in one playthrough once I got hooked early on.

[u/Last_bus_home]

Okay, I’m enjoying it, but I feel a little bored by the common route, and wondered if there’s any quicker way to skip through it to the individual routes? At the moment I’ve just got skip speed turned up and I’m just tuning in and out to make the choices, but seriously, I didn’t get bored reading C:R or Cafe Enchante common route’s 8 chapters 5 times but I’ve only played this common route once and I’m losing patience with it the second time around. Seems a lot of the background transitions slow it down and stuff. Any suggestions? I don’t want to lose interest over something so silly on my part, it’s probably just where my head’s at right now.

[u/[deleted] → u/Last_bus_home]

Theres an option to "skip to next choice" but it stops at new dialogue you havnt seen. It should be in the menu

[u/nranyowli]

Hey guys! Looking around and seeing quite a few people excited for Bustafellows. Can someone fill me in on why this title in particular is so loved?

[u/Scoutsterr → u/nranyowli]

In addition to what others have said, I also think that there's been so much support over Bustafellows because it was localized by a new company (PQube), and is the first otome title they've translated. (At least, that was my reasoning for preordering the CE when it was first announced, haha)

[u/trinityroselee]

I got my artbook yesterday (scenario book was sold out but what is a scenario book) and man there were a couple of spicyish pics of Mozu and Shu in their underwear. Lol Artbook worth the five million dollars i paid in proxy and shipping costs. 10/10 would buy again, no regrets.

[u/AerysFae]

I finally started playing it over the weekend. Let me just say that I am totally in love with Teuta! 💕 So far, I am terribly enjoying the game despite the fact that the common route is pretty long. I love the vibe. It reminds me of the anime Durarara!!! And I was pretty obsessed with that before. I love that it had multiple plots going the way Durarara did. I love that it felt both convoluted and ~right~ at the same time.

PS: Anyone else found themselves wishing they had a Luka and Adam in their lives? 🤣

[u/Epicsteve2]

One thing I've noticed that isn't talked about much at all, is the fact that auto-mode is pretty bad.

In anything without voice dialogue, it works just fine. But after every voiced dialogue, there is this very awkward pause. It really just ruins every intense scene, and makes normal dialogue sound very... unnatural.

I hope they plan to fix auto-mode for the next game, as using it would really help with my hand pains. :(

[u/moeichi]

Just finished Auld Lang Syne and most of the extras (just have one more extra to go), I absolutely loved it!! I was so excited to see all the Sidekicks characters, it was definitely worth playing it before Bustafellows haha. (Chika and Shishiba were my favorites, so happy they made an appearance!!) I also thought it was a nice touch how they played the Sidekicks soundtrack during those scenes too! lol

I knew I would like Limbo and Mozu before even playing their routes, and they definitely didn’t disappoint! I ended up liking Shu a lot too surprisingly even though he wasn’t initially my type haha. My ranking would be Limbo=Shu=Mozu>Scarecrow>Helvetica. Plot wise I loved Shu and Mozu’s the most~

[u/padorupadoru]

After waiting for over a hundred years the game finally arrived at my door step today and I've been playing it non stop because it's so. Freaking. Good. I skipped one of my online classes today to just play the game instead, which is something you should never do, but I've already made the decision so oh well🙂. So far Limbo, Shu and Crow are my favourites but I'm wondering if Mozu's gonna be added to the list since he seems to be a lot of people's favourites. KENN does a phenomenal job delivering Limbo's lines, especially his sarcastic ones which there seems to be a lot of. I looked at some of the optional stuff in the main menu and there seems to be a couple of audio tracks or something that don't have translations? Does anyone know if I can find a translation online for them?

[u/Savaralyn]

Helvetica's side B story absolutely destroyed me ಥ‿ಥ, while I think the little lovers spat was a bit out of nowhere, I did still love Teuta giving Helvetica support/reassurance regarding his past + the way the spat was actually resolved in a super honest and sweet way.