Clannad Game Discussion

[Yukinokesshou]

Um, basically, I've already spoiled the ending for myself, as is my usual habit. I read a synopsis of the Clannad game but couldn't quite understand the ending.

Overarching Question:
Can someone please clarify the ending to Nagisa's story? Thanks!

More specific questions:

Spoiler for Clannad game:

Removed per the orders of iamandragon.

[iamandragon]

Originally Posted by Yukinokesshou

Um, basically, I've already spoiled the ending for myself, as is my usual habit. I read a synopsis of the Clannad game but couldn't quite understand the ending.

Overarching Question:
Can someone please clarify the ending to Nagisa's story? Thanks!

More specific questions:

Spoiler for Clannad game:

censored censored censored censored--quadratic censor sponsered by iamandragon

Ouch! No! Take this down! Take the spoiler contents away! You don't want innocent people opening the tag and spoiling themselves for their entire series! Take it down and I'll mail the answer to you!

[Skyfall]

Thanks for the concern On the same note i would like to remind though that this is the game discussion thread, so spoilers are allowed here. Anyone venturing inside the game discussion thread should realize what to expect.

[ZhangKhaiEn]

What should have been done was label the spoiler tag as "EXTREMELY HEAVY SPOILERS - only open this if you've finished the game"

Yes?

[Skyfall]

Spoiler tags can be exercised as a matter of courtesy, but seeing this is the game thread they are not necessarily required.

[Marina2]

Questions about Light Orbs (Spoiler tag may not necessarily here, but just for safe)

Spoiler for light orbs:

- Do every minor characters route like Yukine,Sanae,Yohei,Kappei,Ryou ..... have a light orb to collect?

- How many light orbs are there in the game? and...

- How many light orbs do I need to unlock After story?

Question about Nagisa route

Spoiler for Nagisa route:

- In this route,Who are other characters that I must build a relationship with other than Nagisa (I'm trying to get Nagisa "true end" but the best I can get right now is "good end")

Edit : Add more question

[Klashikari]

Originally Posted by Marina2

Questions about Light Orbs (Spoiler tag may not necessarily here, but just for safe)

Spoiler for light orbs:

- Do every minor characters route like Yukine,Sanae,Yohei,Kappei,Ryou ..... have a light orb to collect?

- How many light orbs are there in the game? and...

- How many light orbs do I need to unlock After story?

Spoiler for Light Orbs answers:

-Yes, all the minor characters who appear "on-screen" in the game can get a light orb. However, a lots of them are gathered in After Story
-Until I'm wrong, there are 13 Light Orbs.
-You need to get either 7 (if Fuuko's wish is granted) or 8 light orbs.
Basically, you need to finish all routes to do that, because there isn't any light orb in Fuuko or Nagisa's route.

Question about Nagisa route

Spoiler for Nagisa route:

- In this route,Who are other characters that I must build a relationship with other than Nagisa (I'm trying to get Nagisa "true end" but the best I can get right now is "good end")

Edit : Add more question

Spoiler for Nagisa's route:

You mean her graduation ceremony? You can build relationship with the Fujibayashi twins, Tomoyo, Mei, Misae (though she is always there IIRC).

But how is your "good end" look like? It doesn't strike me anything but heh).

Well then... I'm almost done with After Story, and seriously... There is no damn way for KyoAni to skip that, considering how marverlous this part of the game is.
That said, here is my "little" appreciation of the game thus far

Spoiler for School Life opinion:

This is probably because of the Anime influence, but I felt the "cohesion", interactions between the characters weren't as close as It might be, especially the Fujibayashi Twins and Tomoyo, being quite stand alone aside with Tomoya's relationship. It isn't bad in a way, but it is a shame there isn't much friendship unlike in Kotomi's route...
Speaking of which, it is also too bad that the later is completely impossible to interact with until you get in her route.
Generally speaking, the school life routes were nicely enjoyable. I would rank them as follow:

Nagisa > Kyou > Mei >= Yukine > Kotomi > Tomoyo > Fuuko > Misae > Kappei > Koumura

Koumura was obviously the weakest route ever in the pack. I didn't exactly dislike this route, but what baffled me was rather how abrupt and severe the change of route was, especially that from Nagisa's route, she doesn't show up at all, and she isn't even mentioned. Worst: how come Youhei, by hearing Inui's name (their homeroom teacher) believe it is Tomoya's girlfriend...?
There isn't much sense, as when Kouko tells to Tomoya Koumura's story, they completely sidetracked the shift of the route.
I would believe that Koumura's route would deserve at least a route by itself, like Tomoya encountering hardship during his scholarship and so, having some arguments with either youhei and/or Koumura and so forth. Everything happened so quickly that it didn't flow nicely at all but meh...


Kappei wasn't that enjoyable for me either. Sure there was a lot of fun, but what bugged me is how it cheapens Ryou's route, as Ryou had to overcome lot of hardship to interact with Tomoya, while in Kappei's route, she is so straightforward that It looks like the game skipped some weeks. I know that Kappei is much easier to interact with than Tomoya, but seriously, it doesn't exactly strike natural to me.
It is also a problem of character, because... I simply don't like kappei, period. I have obviously issues with such carefreeness, but the chemistry didn't affect me, until his drama popped (nurse studies are quite handy... as soon as I saw codeine, i was like: okay... powerful painkiller... disease? cancer? nothing exactly minor that said...).


Misae's route was one of the "Key tradition" route, and it was nice. The problem is most likely how they left open Tomoya's relationship and feelings in the end... A bit fustrating, along with the shortness of this route.


Fuuko's route is hard to judge because of the anime. What I didn't exactly liked is how Nagisa was taken down so quickly, just because of her weak body. I know it is supposed to be the original script, but I cannot feel anything but "weird" to take away one of the closest Fuuko's supporters like that. The other point was probably how Fuuko acted, as she was even more "neutral" or rather... well, unexpressionless. Though Fuuko is my least favourite "main girls", I still like her character and hardship, though the "romance" in this route was anything but natural.
I still enjoyed this route (as much as the anime version), but Fuuko's route lacks of a little "something" that the other routes has.


Tomoyo's route didn't have much flaw... unless the weird "struggle" arise. I was quite surprised how the "studen council" factor affected their relationship. Even if Tomoya is a delinquent, I don't get how they couldn't simply get over some points (though Tomoyo sure did several mistakes, especially this announcement through the staff microphone).
The other problem was how Tomoya was "able" to break up their relationship. It almost feels like Tomoya gave up on her and didn't feel as much as love he would harbor to any girl. And this gap was affected even more by this insane 6 months skip, which didn't give any natural feel at all. I don't even think that Tomoya never meet Tomoyo even by coincidence during these months.
That said, the fun factor and the chemistry (alongside with the voice of wisedom, Youhei) were fine enough to make this route solid. But it is certainly not as strong in feelings than most routes.


Kotomi's route was a refreshing breath despite the usual formula "girl with a dark past, affecting her psychology, etc.". Everything felt right, though my main issue is... how Tomoya felt so quickly in love with Kotomi. All of a sudden, he was attracted by her and cared to the point I wondered if I didn't miss some interactions.
That said, the final scene, involving the briefcase was extremely powerful. Even if Tomoya's explanations for the letter were a bit convenient, I couldn't help but feel a very strong relief and empathic feeling.


Yukine's route surprised me a lot, because aside of Nagisa, I felt that Yukine was the most natural relationship Tomoya had. Seriously, the feel with this girl was very convincing to the point I didn't mind how Youhei was also hanging around, despite such girl would usually bore him. The chemistry between the characters were very well blend along with some crazy comedy (I loved all versions of the "Storage room curse"... youhei and Akio included ).
The end of the route was also a very soft and nice touch: it wasn't melodrama, it wasn't that a "drama", but strong feelings to the point the explanations of the Light Orb were right and so fitting.
It is a shame it didn't involve a lot of character, and some parts of her route were a bit too fast paced or slow paced. She sure almost deserved the "sixth slot among the main girls", much like Sayuri in Kanon.


Mei's route was one of those which moved me the most. Much like Tomoya said, I felt a bit jealous, considering how lovely this little sister was (I would obviously turn in Kaii mode and take Mei home ). Even if I like a lot Youhei, I couldn't help but want to punch him in the middle of the route... so inconsiderate that I was really wondering what the heck he was doing. Mei is really a heartwarming character, and it had more emphasis because of Tamura Yukari voice for her ^^.
The hardship but also the resolution of this route were brilliantly done, I really hope that Mei will have serious screentime... Since she appears in the opening of the anime, I believe she will at leat have som cameo.


Kyou's route was at first "cliché": the usual girl who doesn't show her feelings and help another one, very close to her, to hang around her love interest. However, it was quickly different, considering how Kyou was devoted to Ryou. Kyou was a very interesting character: whimsical, but serious, hiding her intentions quite well. If it wasn't for the usual "watcher/player point of view", I believe it wouldn't be that obvious to notice her feelings for Tomoya.
What actually change drastically the outcome was Ryou's aknowledgement of her sister's feelings. This obviously change the purpose of the actions here and there.
My only issue with this route is how some specific choice can lead to the bad end (like... if Tomoya doesn't kiss Ryou during the fortune telling machine event, it will result to a bad end even if aiming for Kyou).
Aside of this, It is my second favourite route: it has a well blend complex triangle, lots of fun and drama, Youhei being once again the voice of wisedom, more botan !


Nagisa's route was simply the best route among the 10. The one which hit almost all my weak and soft spots. It is probably the most complex and emotional involvement the game can offer aside of After Story.
The first great point is similar to the anime: How Nagisa can interact with everyone and how she is working hard to the point her evolution is natural, steady, etc.
Second was probably how her relationship with Tomoya flows: she felt like "choice by default", but unlike Ayu, Nagisa was destined for Tomoya and vice versa: it would be criminal to not see them together (even if I also like the other girls). The confession scene after she "gave up" the drama club was intense, and I believe it was a rare case that Tomoya was so direct AND early. (most girl would have to wait for may ).
This route was also a good way to stay in contact with the other characters (except of course the lone wolf Kotomi): the plethora of scenes truely express the "family" feel of CLANNAD.
Speaking of which, mixing Youhei and Akio was nothing but great: lots of comedy and so on, though they obviously don't meet. (but it surely almost double the amount of laugh ^^).
Once the drama kicks in, it was even more moving, considering what the route built until now: the drama club, trying to work so hard reconstruct itself, and the resolution was well fit (Akio's gained so much point with that fatherly speech during the foundation day, even if he used "teme" for Nagisa ).

The end was a bit bittersweet (i was like: HELL NO, damn you scripter! that's so unfair for her!), but Nagisa proved she changed so much, thanks to Tomoya, that she can overcome this issue, and so, they could go on.


Seriously, CLANNAD is terribly addictive, and If it ended here, I wouldn't mind considering the length, and amount of "genre", along with lots of colorful but complex characters and so. I would complain for the cryptic "outworld scenes", but by removing them, it would be okay.

But no, CLANNAD doesn't end with the school life routes, and I wouldn't expect these to be "mere" appetizer...

and now, some first impressions of After Story

Spoiler for After Story:

Remember how I was moved by Nagisa's route...? Well I wasn't expecting my eyes to be so watery during After Story.

The first good point was Tomoya: he was genuine, down to earth, and overcoming hardship of society despite his scholarship background. His devotion for Nagisa was of course a great factor, which was nothing bu natural.
I was a bit worried that the "fun" would be lessened without Youhei, but the scripters proved me wrong: so much goodness with Akio that it was simply equal, or sometimes better (the almighty Family Restaurant scene, with 「ＹＯ！ ＹＯ！ 俺、ＭＣアキオ マイク握れば最強のパンヤー」... this cracked me up like no time XD... and of course, with Maido Nagisa )

The pace of After Story was very neat: they never try to drag on "unecessary" slice of life part of it. They were straight to the point without omitting the "casual days" feel between the two during the cohabitation period.

Afterwards, another "What the hell... that's so unfair..." exclamation: Nagisa turning ill in winter. Sanae's announcement was relieving, but It was really annoying that Nagisa wouldn't be able to enjoy what she deserves, until Tomoya pulls that commendable stunt.
Nagisa's speech during her "graduation" was moving, it was describing very well her past hardship and mindset. It is a bit a shame they didn't make the "optional characters" interact more... I was expecting Kyou and Ryou quite cheering her.

I was a bit disappointed about the complete lack of "special event" for their weddings, but considering their situation, it wouldn't be that "great looking". But something modest and heartwarming like Kouko's (minus the insane amount of guests XD) would be fine I believe.

But finally, the period which is supposed to the happiest became the nightmare. First, I was really wondering when the lover birds would do "it". At one point, when they were kissing in the futon, I thought they would make finally the step until... it was shown that Nagisa was pregnant since 2 months I swear I never see that coming (not that long...). The couple life was even more merrier, with Nagisa going fluffy with her "shio-chan, hehe"... heartmelting I tell you.
Even so, when her fever kicks in again, I was a bit brooding, because the death flags were rising at an abnormally fast pace.
The dilemna was quite rough, but Nagisa's strong will was nothing to discard, though this would be quite unfair.
Once the delivery ended, I cursed the scripters once again for their damn deceiving stunt: the little discussion with "Nagisa" as the BGM relieved me temporarly, until she never wakes up again. BAWWWWW mode, and seriously, the impact was simply gigantic.

Tomoya's degenerative state was so empathic. I don't think anyone can blame him to ignore Ushio, considering how Nagisa's death affect him so much. However, everything wasn't lost, and it was quite nice how Sanae and Akio tried to support him.
Sanae's little plan was bold, as nothing really guarantee that Tomoya would take care of Ushio. However, considering how she has faith in him, it was all good.
Ushio and Tomoya's interactions were awkward, completely normal, obviously. That said, Tomoya felt close unconsciously during the train travel, and it was quite heartwarming how Ushio was like her mama: so obstinate and hard working (heck... crying only in the rest room!? Sanae is surprisingly strict in her education O_o).
And speaking of which, when Ushio asks about her mama, I could say nothing but "OUCH"... Tomoya didn't go mad, that was relieving, but he was sure heartstruck.

The flower field scene was "innocent" first, with Ushio having some fun. Tomoya was a bit soothed, but as he says "it is a complete waste of time", it was really a shame, though it couldn't be helped. I was wondering why Ushio was so attached by this robot, but I suspected something due of Tomoya involvement for it.

And then, the second "watery" scene of AS: the little talk with Shino. This simple talk changed how I was expecting Naoyuki to feel all this time. losing everything even his own son was sure something hard on him. Even so, i felt that Tomoya still considering him as a father before, even mentioning things like "Am I a stranger to you !?".
That said, this revelation was really heartwarming, which was followed with Ushio and her will to retrieve "papa's first gift". That was... ugh, as powerful as Nagisa's death. Seriously, this scene is one of my favourite, really climatic.

More to come I guess...

Will gladely continue AS and completing my thoughts.
So far, CLANNAD is ranked among my second most favourite VN and storyline so far. The feelings, the characters... well, everything go so right that I wonder why I didn't get this game before, even without the unofficial translation patches (since AS isn't that difficult to understand, I guess the school life wouldn't either).

[Marina2]

Originally Posted by Klashikari

Spoiler for Light Orbs answers:

-Yes, all the minor characters who appear "on-screen" in the game can get a light orb. However, a lots of them are gathered in After Story
-Until I'm wrong, there are 13 Light Orbs.
-You need to get either 7 (if Fuuko's wish is granted) or 8 light orbs.
Basically, you need to finish all routes to do that, because there isn't any light orb in Fuuko or Nagisa's route.

Spoiler for Nagisa's route:

You mean her graduation ceremony? You can build relationship with the Fujibayashi twins, Tomoyo, Mei, Misae (though she is always there IIRC).

But how is your "good end" look like? It doesn't strike me anything but heh).

Spoiler for About Nagisa's route:

Oh,I see. There is no light orb in Nagisa and Fuuko route right?. Then,I can stop trying to get it now (but Nagisa's last CG still miss (1/2) and next to its are a few emply slots before other characters CG. Is that's for after story?

About "good end", someone told me that if I can end the game but don't get light orb (not bad end), that is call "Good end" and "True end" if I get. Right now I have 4 (Or 5)orbs.

[Klashikari]

Originally Posted by Marina2

Spoiler for About Nagisa's route:

Oh,I see. There is no light orb in Nagisa and Fuuko route right?. Then,I can stop trying to get it now (but Nagisa's last CG still miss (1/2) and next to its are a few emply slots before other characters CG. Is that's for after story?

About "good end", someone told me that if I can end the game but don't get light orb (not bad end), that is call "Good end" and "True end" if I get. Right now I have 4 (Or 5)orbs.

Spoiler for Nagisa's route and Light Orbs:

The "last CG" for Nagisa is much like the other empty slot: from After Story.
There is a special event for this one.

You mistook with After Story.
You need to get all Light Orbs (13) to get the True end.
The number of Light Orbs doesn't have any impact in the School Life routes

[iamandragon]

Originally Posted by Skyfall

Spoiler tags can be exercised as a matter of courtesy, but seeing this is the game thread they are not necessarily required.

Not necessarily in normal situations, but not for CLANNAD--especially for the After Story part. It is the critical part of CLANNAD, not the main part, but a critical. If you have played Every17, I would compare AS with CoCo route.

I'm trying to establish a strong discussion thread where people who have played the game can express their feeling/opinions. A place where people talk, not ask.

Quoting from my favorite anime, Zegapain---"Happiness includes pain." After Story is indeed a happy ending, but without the pain in the first half, there would not be a significance in the happiness ending. Just like Kyou route in school life arc--if Kyou just come up and confess to Tomoya, I will ditch it.

So what's up with all these pain and happiness talk? My point here is, to know and to feel is a completely different thing. You know after you feel, but you don't feel after you know. To feel the power of After Story, you need must not know it beforehand and actually experience it. Therefore, I'm doing my best to prevent people from knowing before feeling. It is a selfish act, I know, but I believe I have not made a mistake.

And for those who don't mind, or want to be spoiled, private message me--I will answer all questions thrown at me within my knowledge. But at the same time, I fell sad. Not for the person, but for the fact that one less person in the world, that can experience After Story once again.

I love KEY, I love CLANNAD, more than anyone else. The magic that flows in every tune of each character's dialog never fails to touch my heart. My hobby is to collect people's life, be it virtual or real, and I have never seen a tale that is so full of life in a story that lasts such a short period. I love it, CLANNAD. I just do.

Reminds me of people screaming out loud with a megaphone when the final volume of Harry Potter is out, saying "******** dies". It might be much easier if I say 'I just don't want something similar to happen again'--but that's not what's on my mind when I tried to prevent people being spoiled.

[Yukinokesshou]

Originally Posted by iamandragon

Reminds me of people screaming out loud with a megaphone when the final volume of Harry Potter is out, saying "******** dies". It might be much easier if I say 'I just don't want something similar to happen again'--but that's not what's on my mind when I tried to prevent people being spoiled.

Hahaha... the ending of Harry Potter...

I will forever remember the Taiwanese ETTV News the night book 7 was released. It basically read like a list of births, deaths, and marriages. AND there were graphics to accompany the announcements (like Ginny and Harry in a big pink heart and wedding decorations; Voldemort with a tombstone, etc.)

All for millions of Chinese children to watch across Taiwan and pockets of Hong Kong, China, and even the US. So much for hiding spoilers

[iamandragon]

All right, back on the game discussion please.

For getting the other characters to attend Nagisa's ceremony, you can look up Nagisa in the walkthrough. Following it will lead you to be able to get everyone in the After Story. Note that whatever happens in After Story is affacted by your last -complete- of Nagisa's ending. You'll need to reach the end and hear the song.

Ya the walkthrough is not yet finished--I'll do so after the 18th when I complete all my exams.

[Kinny Riddle]

It took me a month to clear Kanon.

A month and a half to clear AIR.

Four months to clear Clannad.

(Total time spent added together that is, does not include real life commitments like eat, sleep, work, hanging out with friends, taking a poo, posting on ASuki, etc. )

A sense of relief and awe at finally clearing the game 100%. All I can say is, Clannad does not truly begin until After Story. And After Story does not truly begin until you're midway through.

The funniest parts are found in After Story ("Akki" = FTW), the most tear-jerking parts are found in After Story.

I think my eyes were even more wet in the Ushio/Naoyuki thread than when Misuzu finally achieved her happiness at last in AIR.

Kanon's theme is "Miracle".

AIR's theme is "Motherly Love".

Clannad's theme is, as it's Irish-inspired name suggest, "Family".

Spoiler for Family themes for every character:

Tomoya - Just considering Nagisa's route - his relationship with Nagisa, the experience of forming a family with the birth of Ushio, coming to terms with the sacrifices his father Naoyuki went through to raise him, as well as his role as Ushio's dad. No other KEY protagonist has gone through so much emotional development than Tomoya has.

Nagisa - The warmth of her family directly plays a large part in Tomoya's growth

Kyou and Ryou - Sibling rivalry, perhaps? As well as sisterly love.

Tomoyo - The chance to redeem herself and make up for her brother's effort to unite her family.

Kotomi - Coming to terms with the traumatic loss of family, and the making of a new one

Fuuko and Kouko - Though eccentric, Fuuko shows her love for her sister none-the-less, even from her hospital bed.

Yukine - Forming a new "family" with her brother's delinquent friends even though he has departed

Sunohara & Mei - Despite being an ass and a buffoon, Sunohara still loves his sister. The feeling is reciprocal.

Akio and Sanae - There's really no need to say more about this dynamic couple.

Other characters don't really fall into the strictest definition of family, their stories revolve around their affinity for the people they affect and vice versa.

Kappei - Meeting Ryou gave him the courage to stop running from his disease.

Misae - Her longing for Shima-kun compelled her to stay in this town.

Koumura - His persistence ensured Tomoya and Sunohara at least weren't expelled, earning their respect at the end.

Yoshino - Rediscovered his sense of belonging after losing everything, thanks to Kouko-san

Here's the list of characters who provide light orbs

Spoiler for School Life Light orbs:

This is in the order that I obtained them, for these orbs, it does not matter in which order you get them

- Kyou

- Kappei (& Ryou)

- Misae (Clear her story first, and then come back to Tomoyo's route to get her orb on May 11th)

- Tomoyo

- Yukine

- Sunohara & Mei

- Kotomi

- Koumura (Accessed through Nagisa's route by meeting Kouko-san and losing the basketball match)

Fuuko and Nagisa do not have orbs.

In total, there are 8 orbs.

In Nagisa's route, on April 29th, if you score the right flag, you will meet Kouko-san.

If you have viewed Fuuko's ending (either Normal End and True End would do), then one of your orbs would be "consumed" for Kouko-san's happiness.

This means you're left with 7 orbs, no matter what happens.

Once you cleared Nagisa's route and have 7 orbs + 1 orb to be consumed for the Kouko-san scene, After Story will be triggered.

Spoiler for After Story Light Orbs:

After Story is pretty much linear, you'll need to play through it three times to get all remaining orbs to trigger Nagisa's True End.

1st playthrough

- Sanae

- Yoshino

- Naoyuki

- Fuuko

- Kouko

5 orbs, adding your tally to 12.

2nd playthrough

- Akio

1 orb, adding your tally to 13.

You now have all the orbs to get Nagisa's True End in the 3rd playthrough.

To see the True End, go to the "Birth" arc, in the "dream" scene just after Nagisa gave birth to Ushio.

Once you've cleared everything, there's extra Easter Eggs to be found in Tomoyo's route.

1. Tomoyo no longer kicks Sunohara multiple times, but gives him a big kick everytime, causing changes to his face. I won't spoil any further, you've got to see this for yourself.

2. If you attained the level of Fuuko Master, then Fuuko makes nonsensical intrusions at random intervals.

Other bonus story routes (no orbs) include:

- Sunohara "Lover" End - The most shocking ending

- Baseball Route - Surprisingly fun

- Yukine's "spells" involve different girls depending which girl you're friendly with

- "Jet" Saito - Too nonsensical for me to explain.


Might as well put in my advice on getting which characters you want for the graduation scene.

Spoiler for Characters in graduation scene in After Story:

Default characters
- Sunohara
- Akio
- Sanae
- Kyou (I think she and her sister are default. I'm not sure, as I've scored pretty much every available flag for every girl to get maximum immersion for Nagisa's story)
- Ryou
- Koumura (Don't think he's got any flags for me to score)

Optional
- Kouko (Meet her in School Life April 29th. Or, as Yoshino is Tomoya's boss, play through his scenario in After Story to meet her)
- Mei (Answer her phone call in School Life April 23rd)
- Misae (Not sure if she's default or optional)
- Tomoyo (Score as many Tomoyo flags and ask her to help out the Drama Club on School Life April 25th)

Not available
- Kotomi (A massive regret. I'm hoping Kyo-Ani include her)
- Yukine (Another regret)
- Fuuko (She's still sleeping, so it can't be helped)

[Klashikari]

Well, I"m "done" with CLANNAD (main plot, that is), and I will obviously keep my words on it: an awesome VN, to say the least.
here is the rest of my opinion on AS (though it is only after the special "reunion")

Spoiler for After Story:

It was really heartwarming to see Tomoya acting like a real father to Ushio... Can't helped but feel really glad they were reunited for good after their visit to shino.

I was really surprised to see Kyou, especially as a Teacher, but considering her "motherly love" with botan, it is sure fitting her ^^.
As result, I thought we would get more of the "previous" cast back, such like tomoyo and youhei but... well I was a bit disappointed.
Frankly, I was glad for Fuuko and her awakening, but... what disturbed me was how she almost didn't change one bit. I know that coma is obviously taking a huge toll on body development etc but... heck, she is supposed to have slept like 9-10 years, so she is supposed to be roughly 24-25 years old!
Even Ayu wasn't THAT loli after her coma... I would say Fuko literally time froze, which isn't exactly what i expected (I though she would be visually as mature as this official art).

Afterwards, well... I feared the worst with Ushio's fever, and the doctor's announcement was a heavy pain in the chest, like an harbringer of doom. And as soon as 潮鳴り kicks in, I could only curse, as the death flag surely announced the impending "bad end".
Even though I knew there was a happy end, it was heart shattering to see such scene. But I never expected that illusionary world sequence to appear. I guess this is because of the anime, but as soon as I read After Story, the girl identity was absolutely not mistakable, and so she is Ushio. So back with that final sequence, her cryptic explanations made light to the sequence: as in fact, the tragedy already occured and these sequences are in fact the past, ocurring "before" the school life routes.

then, the almighty : さよなら、パパ。
I think I needed several minutes to overcome this outrageously sorrowful scene. Ultimately, it was as sad as Nagisa's death, or almost worst. Unfair, sad, depressing... lots of word for this. However, this is another motivation to find out the "true end".

Then, Akio's route was quite surprising, since there wasn't anything after that, nevertherless, this route was solid. The ossan is... well, rambo? After the dramatic bad end i just got not like 1 hour before this route, I was like "oh no, not another character murder !".
Many silly death flags around, and Nagisa uneasiness during the television broadcast was quite onimous. Still, the good ol' ossan was well and fine, though I shared Tomoya's thought, considering how "inconsiderate" he was towards Sanae in the end.
Despite this, his final quote was great, nevetherless :

俺は…
居なくなったりはしない
いつまでもおまえのそばにいる」
だから…
安心しろ、早苗

Showing off...? Corny..? perhaps, but still cool ! XD

As result, the 13 light orbs are shining all their might onscreen. Without any spoil I wouldn't actually figure what was that for, but it was shaping "Illusionary Ushio" very well.
And finally, back with the "birth arc", I was hoping a fitting good end and... finally granted. It was as powerful as Higu final end for me ^^". I must admit the "city in light" sequence was... so strange that i though the text was buggy or so (like... well many minutes before anything appears).

A very fitting and deserved happy end for the three of them ^^

My only complain for the game is the lack of "coverage" of the other characters during After Story. It was nice to see some of them, but alas... for a very short period of time, and for a little sample of the whole cast. Really, I thought they could try to pull a "everyone is there!" period... but well.

Seriously, anyone who can play the game should... and even if they don't have the game, it would be a terrible shame and waste to not buy it. A masterpiece, without a doubt. So many fun, tears, smiles and happy moments. I often cursed how the scripters toyed with my emotional weak spots, but meh... that was for the best i guess.

Originally Posted by Kinny Riddle

Once you've cleared everything, there's extra Easter Eggs to be found in Tomoyo's route.

1. Tomoyo no longer kicks Sunohara multiple times, but gives him a big kick everytime, causing changes to his face. I won't spoil any further, you've got to see this for yourself.

The first time I ever tried to get 64 hits after AS, I was like: What the hell happened to you, youhei !?
That's quite a... "strange" bonus XD

2. If you attained the level of Fuuko Master, then Fuuko makes nonsensical intrusions at random intervals.

I always wondered why people said that Fuuko was doing her non sensical intrusion in tomoyo, after episode 12. Now i have the answer (and she sure appears during the worst moments )

Other bonus story routes (no orbs) include:

- Baseball Route - Surprisingly fun

I was never able to get in it... can you (or anyone else? ^^") guide how do you get on the baseball route? ^^"

- Yukine's "spells" involve different girls depending which girl you're friendly with

Where is the Sanae's version of this ? XD

- "Jet" Saito - Too nonsensical for me to explain.

I don't have any clue what is this, huho.

[Kinny Riddle]

Spoiler for 2 other girls in AfterStory:

I wonder if the flags for Kyou are necessary for her unique scenes in After Story.

She and Fuuko are the only other main girls to have substantially long scenes in After Story. Tomoyo has her own "After Story", but that's in another parallel world, I'd certainly like to see how she is doing in this world.

By the time of the Ushio arc, Fuuko is 24/25, her sis Kouko-san is in her early to mid 30s, while Sanae-san is at least 40. Yet they all look the same.

Man, KEY girls hardly ever age, do they?

Spoiler for Questions on Ending:

The epilogue of Nagisa's True End featured the surprising comedic duo of Fuuko and Kouko-san. (Kouko-san sure has a lot of patience with her sis's antics, Tomoya would've gone ballistic already. )

Anyway, Fuuko mentions seeing a girl sleeping by a tree, and then we go to a monologue of Fuuko introducing herself to said girl. Then we're taken back to the title screen with Illusionary Ushio sleeping. Could she be the girl?

The site of the hospital seems to be mystical. There's still many things I don't understand. I'm guessing a trans-dimensional portal connecting to the Illusionary World exists there. (I must've watched too much Doctor Who. )

Kotomi's parents must have come very close to discovering this portal, but passed away before they could make their findings public.

Here's my guess:
Akki took an ailing Nagisa to this place and wished for her survival, to which she miraculously survived, with light from the Illusionary World. This causes her to subconsciously learn about the "story" of the Illusionary World. Her life also became bound to the town. Whenever the town changes, Nagisa's health (and Ushio's) would become affected as well.

The Tomoyas of the various dimensions each accumulated an orb, these are all transmitted to the Illusionary World (which seems to link to all these worlds) and given to the "robot", who is actually Tomoya. As the "robot" departs, the thoughts of all the orbs he brought back with him are given to the Tomoya of this world, and Nagisa is thus saved.

[Kinny Riddle]

Originally Posted by Klashikari

W
I was never able to get in it... can you (or anyone else? ^^") guide how do you get on the baseball route? ^^"

If you understand enough Japanese

http://www15.plala.or.jp/scp/key/cla...kusayakyu.html

http://yuzz21.web.fc2.com/yakyukouryaku.html

Where is the Sanae's version of this ? XD
I don't have any clue what is this, huho.

I regret to tell you that there is no Sanae version.

Spoiler for Yukine's spell variations:

1. First, there is the spell on April 22nd where Sunohara attempts to woo a girl that you suggest by taking off his pants. (WTF?)

- Kyou (Sunohara gets beaten by her dictionary)

- Ryou (Ryou faints at the sight. Sunohara freaks out by everyone's cold stares, and then gets dragged away by the Rugby Club players)

- Tomoyo (Do I really need to say the obvious?)

2. Second, there is the spell on April 23rd where you walk around the corridors, the first girl you meet would be your "Fated One".

- Kyou & Ryou 1 - default - if you don't score Kyou's flags, she will not prompt you to get close to Ryou, and her conversation will vary

- Kyou & Ryou 2 - requires you to score some flags for Kyou

- Nagisa - score flags with Nagisa

- Fuuko & Tomoyo - score flags for both of them (not sure why they're lumped together)

- Misae - score flags with Misae

2. Second, the spell on April 24th will get you trapped in the School Gym with your "Fated One" as chosen on April 23rd. (Misae not available) To escape this "curse", Tomoya has to flash his buttocks and murmur a counter-spell.

- Kyou - default - depending on how many flags you scored with Kyou, her conversation varies.

- Nagisa - score enough flags for Nagisa, otherwise, even if you choose her, you'll end up with...

- Akio

- Fuuko - you don't exactly end up with her as Tomoya thought Fuuko is too loli for his tastes, this'll take him to the final choice below...

- Tomoyo

- Sunohara - default

In case you're wondering, no, Tomoya did not flash his arse in front of Akio or Sunohara.

[Klashikari]

Originally Posted by Kinny Riddle

Spoiler for 2 other girls in AfterStory:

I wonder if the flags for Kyou are necessary for her unique scenes in After Story.

She and Fuuko are the only other main girls to have substantially long scenes in After Story. Tomoyo has her own "After Story", but that's in another parallel world, I'd certainly like to see how she is doing in this world.

By the time of the Ushio arc, Fuuko is 24/25, her sis Kouko-san is in her early to mid 30s, while Sanae-san is at least 40. Yet they all look the same.

Man, KEY girls hardly ever age, do they?

I have just done a quick playthrough, and the result is: no, Kyou and Ryou aren't default characters for this event.
Even if I had to select Kyou for the "challenge", She doesn't appear. I can't say if it is because I took down Ryou's flag though, but she is surely a skippable characters.
I just checked After Story: no, you don't get Kyou's scene if you don't have her flags during Nagisa's route. Instead, we got random "housewives" talk. Looks like they really made a lot of variations depending of the flags.

Same goes for Misae, she didn't appear in this empty AS.

Spoiler for Questions on Ending:

The epilogue of Nagisa's True End featured the surprising comedic duo of Fuuko and Kouko-san. (Kouko-san sure has a lot of patience with her sis's antics, Tomoya would've gone ballistic already. )

Anyway, Fuuko mentions seeing a girl sleeping by a tree, and then we go to a monologue of Fuuko introducing herself to said girl. Then we're taken back to the title screen with Illusionary Ushio sleeping. Could she be the girl?

The site of the hospital seems to be mystical. There's still many things I don't understand. I'm guessing a trans-dimensional portal connecting to the Illusionary World exists there. (I must've watched too much Doctor Who. )

Kotomi's parents must have come very close to discovering this portal, but passed away before they could make their findings public.

Here's my guess:
Akki took an ailing Nagisa to this place and wished for her survival, to which she miraculously survived, with light from the Illusionary World. This causes her to subconsciously learn about the "story" of the Illusionary World. Her life also became bound to the town. Whenever the town changes, Nagisa's health (and Ushio's) would become affected as well.

The Tomoyas of the various dimensions each accumulated an orb, these are all transmitted to the Illusionary World (which seems to link to all these worlds) and given to the "robot", who is actually Tomoya. As the "robot" departs, the thoughts of all the orbs he brought back with him are given to the Tomoya of this world, and Nagisa is thus saved.

Spoiler for CLANNAD epilogue:

Certainly, Kouko has an steel patience... I didn't exactly get Fuuko's point with her "scent" and "cute girl". No wonder how she was quite clueless after this whimsical speech of her little sister.

As for the girl, there is no mistake it is the "illusionary Ushio", as the game quickly transite into the game menu, with a similar scenery.
Furthermore, this scene is in the anime OP (when i saw the "awakened" fuuko, i was bugged by her red clothes until i realized 5 min later it was her in the OP. watch it carefully, ushio isn't alone, there is a long haired girl with red clothes: it is Fuuko during the epilogue).

The message behind it is quite hard to grasp... is it possible that I Ushio could materialize along with the change of fate? it is extremely difficult to say, but there is almost no mistake if we consider the anime canon, considering her appearance.

In fact, it is like a time paradox, because Nagisa knew this legend before everything happened... or was the world changed, because it was an illusion? After all, Nagisa's route happen "after" After Story illusionary world. Therefore, it might affect Tomoya who don't have any memories aside of this. it is quite confusing however.

But it appears the timeline of CLANNAD was spread on purpose. it should be:
unknown world, similar to nagisa's route + After story BAD END => illusionary world => I Ushio cannot go any further => Mission of Light => Routes => Awakening before Nagisa dies => Good end.

Originally Posted by Kinny Riddle

If you understand enough Japanese

http://www15.plala.or.jp/scp/key/cla...kusayakyu.html

http://yuzz21.web.fc2.com/yakyukouryaku.html

Thanks, I appreciate it a lot ^^

I regret to tell you that there is no Sanae version.

Yes, I know, it was just a random wish... (meh, why did that other person got her screentime during this curse though? )

Spoiler for about this certain person:

His storage room curse event was quite mysterious: How in the hell Akio has that kind of gun?
He might be an actor, even so, i don't get how he could blast the door, until it was an odd occurance of the curse? *scratches his head*.
His firing skills are quite too great to be a mere amateur, especially with the laser tag arc

[iamandragon]

Spoiler for how Akio has a gun:

If you have played the laser route, that should ring a bell. I havn't confirmed if they're on the same day though. It's still a wonder why he has gunpowder on him(when he blew open the gym door. But this prooves Akio is GAR enough to counter Yukine's curse (and the only one ever that is)

Spoiler for Illusionary world:

One thing we're sure that is that Tomoya's mind exists in both world, but which one is the real Tomoya? If we look at the timeline in Tomoya's experience, it should be the first arc of A.S. happening, without collecting the lights, then he goes back to school life. After Nagisa route, he goes back to A.S., collecting the light orbs and getting true end. But what I think what happened in real is that right before Nagisa falls, everything are just illusions--it's the other Tomoya(s) in a separate universe(s) doing the light orb collecting jobs and bring it to the current Tomoya to create a miracle. But that's just my speculation.

I think I might have made a bit of mis-understanding here, this is what I actually mean:

Earth <=Tomoya is here, everything happens here we don't see it
Illusionary World <=illusion we the player experience the game, a world that's closer to Earth. It is a real world, just a parallel universe. Don't let the name deceive you.
Phantasm World <=where the robot is, an illusionary world within the illusionary world


Time line of gameplay and their location of occurance:
Before game starts: Earth
Right after game starts: Illusionary World
Everytime we see robot: Phantasm World
After Story: Illusionary World
Right after game finishes: back to Earth, and we don't see it.

It'll be easier if we assume Tomoya actually exists here on this earth we live in, and when playing the game, we see what Tomoya sees in his dreams where all the alternative Tomoya are doing.

[Klashikari]

Originally Posted by iamandragon

Spoiler for how this guy has a gun:

If you have played the laser route, that should ring a bell. I havn't confirmed if they're on the same day though. It's still a wonder why he has gunpowder on him(when he blew open the gym door. But this prooves Akio is GAR enough to counter Yukine's curse (and the only one ever that is)

Spoiler for curse + laser tag:

I know that already. The problem is: how the hell he has gunpowder and such? It is not really related to the laser tag, aside of his skills.
It rather looks like a true gun to begin with, unlike the toy, Tomoya youhei and kyou were playing... but heh

And even so, he is a bit too skillful for this kind of things, which is a mystery

[iamandragon]

Spoiler for about the curse + laser tag:

Don't forget that the room is dark, recently around my place there's a news about a person mistaking a dildo as a gun during a robbery...
Akio is skilled because he is an actor? An actor is skilled at looking skillful...
And about gunpowder, I'm experimenting how contents of cigarettes can be explosive. Spent about 10 pounds on buying things I never bought before without success...Will most probably find out after then 18th when my exams are over. For the time being, let's just assume it's because of the GARness of Akio shall we?

by the way, nice Sig. Where's it from?