After several weeks of teasing via audio files, we finally get Summer at the Edge of the Universe. The developer, Studio Élan, submits the final audio log and confirms this writers’ suspicions, we’re getting a new game. This astonishing new title from the developers behind our choice for visual novel of the year, Heart of the Woods, are ready to claim 2021 as their own. To clarify, Summer at the Edge of the Universe isn’t their only game releasing next year. The equally beautiful Lock & Key is also releasing in 2021. However, there’s a couple elements that sets this release apart from the predecessors. These include the addition of multi-platform and high-quality voice acting at release. These features are usually available following a post-release crowdfund. Needless to say, this writer is very excited for this release. We hope to sit down with the directors of both upcoming projects soon!
https://twitter.com/vnstudioelan/status/1227661483628257283
So what’s Summer at the Edge of the Universe about?
Summer at the Edge of the Universe is a solarpunk lesbian visual novel. After several years without talking, a chance encounter brings four best friends back together for the journey of a lifetime. For Summer Nansen (CV: Hikaru Station), this trip is a chance to not only rekindle old friendships, but also to discover what it is she wants out of life. Joined by the spunky robot Curiosity, the four girls travel from planet to planet, exploring the natural wonders and diverse alien cultures that they come across. Their journey culminates at the borderline of existence itself: the very edge of the universe.
There are three routes, centered around each of Summer’s friends. All routes contain both romantic and platonic endings. More fantasy than sci-fi, Summer aims to be a positive and uplifting experience, with one of the core tenets for the game being “good vibes only.” The game was first teased and eventually announced via a series of audio logs featuring each of the characters.
