Arc System Works' "Dear me, I was..." Confirmed for Original Switch Release

09/27/2025

Arc System Works has officially confirmed that its innovative visual novel, 'Dear me, I was...', will extend its release beyond the recently launched Switch 2 to include the original Nintendo Switch console. This expansion brings the highly anticipated interactive adventure, characterized by its distinctive visual and narrative approach, to a broader audience of players.

Arc System Works Unveils \"Dear me, I was...\" for Original Switch, Expanding Accessibility for Unique Visual Novel

In a significant announcement made during a broadcast at the Tokyo Game Show this week, Arc System Works revealed exciting news for fans of interactive narratives. Their much-anticipated visual novel, titled \"Dear me, I was...\", will now be available on the original Nintendo Switch, following its initial release on the Switch 2 in July. While specific launch dates and further details are yet to be disclosed, the development studio urged interested players to follow their official channels for upcoming updates.

Originally introduced as a title for the new Switch 2 console, \"Dear me, I was...\" is an interactive adventure conceptualized and directed by Maho Taguchi, with stunning art direction provided by Taisuke Kanasaki, known for his work on titles like 'Another Code' and 'Hotel Dusk'. The game stands out for its \"textless\" narrative design, employing vibrant watercolor aesthetics combined with rotoscoping technology to create remarkably lifelike character animations. This unique artistic choice aims to deliver a deeply moving and immersive experience. Director Taguchi describes the game as specifically crafted for adult women, intending to instill a sense of positivity in players after engaging with the story. The narrative centers on revisiting the life of a particular woman, allowing players to experience her journey through moments of joy, sorrow, and personal growth within her interconnected existence.

This strategic decision to bring \"Dear me, I was...\" to the original Switch demonstrates a commendable commitment to wider accessibility, ensuring that more players can immerse themselves in this emotionally resonant and visually distinctive interactive adventure. It underlines the potential for unique narrative experiences to transcend platform boundaries, enriching the gaming landscape with diverse storytelling.

The announcement from Arc System Works regarding 'Dear me, I was...' landing on the original Switch is a testament to the evolving nature of game development and audience engagement. It suggests a growing understanding that compelling narratives and unique artistic visions, rather than solely cutting-edge graphics, can drive player interest. For developers, this could open avenues for optimizing games across various hardware generations, maximizing reach without compromising artistic integrity. For players, especially those who may not immediately upgrade to newer consoles, it's a welcome move that ensures they don't miss out on potentially groundbreaking interactive experiences. This strategy could foster a more inclusive gaming community, allowing a wider demographic to appreciate and be moved by innovative storytelling. Ultimately, it highlights that the power of a game often lies in its ability to connect with players on an emotional level, regardless of the platform.