Natsu-Mon: 20th Century Summer Kid, developed by TOYBOX Inc. and Millennium Kitchen Co., and published by Spike Chunsoft, is a laid back and lovely homage to the simple joys of childhood summers. The game captures the essence of nostalgia, transporting players to a rural Japanese town in the 20th century, where days are spent catching bugs, fishing, and soaking in the serenity of a world still untouched by today’s hustle and pace. We checked it out on a Nintendo Switch.
At the heart of Natsu-Mon lies its premise: a summer vacation spent in Yomogi Town, where you play as the son of a circus ringmaster. The narrative is not driven by high-stakes drama or a grand scheme, but rather by the simple pleasures of life in a small town. You’ll find yourself exploring every little corner, engaging with the locals, and helping your father’s circus thrive. The game embraces this sense of freedom, allowing you to pursue your interests, whether it’s fishing in a river, hunting for rare bugs, or simply enjoying the summer festival – there’s very little pressure here, which is a nice change.
The open-world design of Yomogi Town is a highlight of Natsu-Mon. The environment is crafted with attention to detail, bringing the idyllic countryside to life with endearing 3D visuals. The town is rich with nostalgic charm, from its quaint shopping districts to the single-car trains that gently move along the tracks. The dynamic weather and time of day system add a layer of realism, making the world feel alive and responsive to your actions.
However, while the open world is beautifully realized, the gameplay loop itself can feel a bit too slow-paced for some. The game leans heavily into its nostalgic vibe, and that is certainly its strength, but for those looking for a more action-oriented or varied gameplay experience, this might not be the game for you. The activities you engage in, such as fishing and bug-catching, are simple and repetitive, and as such this is a zen-like experience rather than an adrenaline rush.
The controls in Natsu-Mon are intuitive and straightforward, fitting well with the game’s laid-back approach. There’s nothing particularly complex here, nor is there much of a learning curve, which complements the game’s overall design philosophy. However, some might find the lack of challenge in the mechanics to be a downside, as it limits the game’s depth and replayability.
The game’s audio design is worth highlighting, as Natsu-Mon features a soundtrack that perfectly captures the laid-back, nostalgic mood it’s aiming for. The sounds of cicadas buzzing around you, the sound of water flowing in the river, and the distant rumbling of a train all contribute to the immersive atmosphere. The music is soothing as well, enhancing the experience without overshadowing it.
Visually, Natsu-Mon is lovely on the Switch. The graphics bring out the vivid colors and intricate details of the world, making it all very gentle on the eyes without wowing you. The game’s art style, while simple, is effective in conveying the charm and warmth of its setting.
In conclusion, Natsu-Mon: 20th Century Summer Kid is a beautifully crafted game about childhood summers, offering a peaceful and nostalgic journey through a detailed world. However, its slow pace and simplistic gameplay may not appeal to everyone. For those who appreciate a relaxed, open-world experience that emphasizes atmosphere and exploration over action, Natsu-Mon is a lovely escape into a simpler time.
Score: 7.5/10
Press Play Media 