Video Game Mini-Review: I*CHU: Chibi Edition Review

Developer: PQube

Publisher: PQube

Genre: Rhythm / Visual Novel / Gacha

Reviewed For: Nintendo Switch

If you are a fan of rhythm games, visual novels,  or gacha games, I*Chu: Chibi Edition allows you to pull characters and progress through visual novel storylines without relying on microtransactions. Developed as a mobile game port, this version brings catchy J-Pop idol boys and rhythm challenges to your screen while offering an affordable experience. 

I*Chu: Chibi Edition introduces players to a school filled with aspiring idols working toward their professional debut. Players take on the role of their Producer. The plot develops through interactions between the idols and their Producer. Unfortunately, the narrative lacks depth, as it attempts to juggle multiple idol groups, which limits deeper character exploration and engagement. Most of the idols just end up being eye-candy full of typical anime tropes. 

The rhythm gameplay is straightforward, with notes falling down four lanes and players tapping in sync with the music. Rhythm game gans have likely played this type of game before, especially those that play anime-themed games. The game offers multiple difficulty levels, from easy to nightmare, unlocking harder modes by completing the previous difficulty. The progression system feels rewarding, especially when songs get more complex. While it’s fun to master higher difficulties, the health system tied to missed notes can feel punishing to those who might just be in it for the visual novel aspects. 

The gacha system in I*Chu: Chibi Edition still plays a prominent role in gameplay despite no longer requiring real money transactions. Players form teams of idols by pulling from the gacha pools, using in-game currency earned through playing songs. These idols have different stats that affect score bonuses and health during performances, giving the game an element of strategy with team composition. While the system offers a nostalgic gacha experience, the low drop rates and lack of transparency about pool contents can be frustrating, especially for players trying to pull specific characters. Only seasoned gacha players will be conditioned to be fine with low-drop raters (It’s me, I’m the person okay with gacha abuse). 

The game has its share of technical and presentation flaws, particularly in how poorly its mechanics and interface are explained. The translation includes confusing wording and continuity errors that can make navigating the menus more difficult than necessary. Several mechanics, like favorability and scouting, are either poorly introduced or left unexplained, leading to frustrating trial and error.

Visually, the game is a mixed bag. The art for the idol characters is solid, with appealing designs that fit well into the anime-inspired setting. Still, the low-resolution artwork becomes painfully obvious during close-ups, which is a missed opportunity given the quality of the art itself. The music is a highlight, with the rhythm game featuring catchy J-pop tracks that stand out against the lackluster presentation in other areas.

I*Chu: Chibi Edition blends rhythm gameplay and visual novel elements with a familiar gacha mechanic, offering an accessible experience without microtransactions. However, the shallow story, technical flaws, and lack of depth in character development hold it back from standing out. Only hardcore fans will want to explore this game, as there are much better rhythm games and idol-themed visual novels on the Switch.