Shiro and Coal Town share a summer fantasy

One sec Shin-chan crayon the humor can be a bit crude at times and the character designs can look a bit crude compared to other anime series. Recent games have proven to provide a smooth and soothing experience. Shin-chan: Shiro and the coal city is a perfect example. This is relaxing game which focuses more on the pastoral charms of quiet country life and moving at your own pace, with the goofy and crazy elements of the show offering some fun and comedic entertainment.

Shin-chan: Shiro and the coal city it begins with the pleasure of the quiet and kind life of a small child in a safe, tiny town. Shinnosuke and his family currently live in Akita after their father’s job brought them there as part of a research project. Since his grandparents live nearby, Shinnosuke spends many days learning from his grandfather Ginnosuke and leisurely exploring the area with him. Collects worms, fish and plants for a local author. He meets with children in the city. Accepts requests for access to new areas.

However, after settling in Akita, Shinnosuke learns that there is a completely different area to explore and apparently needs his special help. Shiro leads him to a mysterious train platform in the nearby forest and, after getting into a car, takes the two to Coal Town. It turns out that Coal Town is in some danger, and a young girl named Sumi asked Shiro to bring Shinnosuke there after she met the dog. Once there, you’ll get involved in helping the city and its inhabitants, such as helping an inventor named Yumi, helping to create food for Yosoi’s restaurant to sell, or challenging people to troll races.

Since this is a life simulator, the gameplay loop is quite sparse. When Shinnosuke wakes up and eats breakfast with his parents and grandparents, we are left to spend the day as we want. If we choose to stay near the Akita, it may mean tending to the garden and what we have grown, spending time with children and nearby neighbors, fishing, collecting bugs, and generally having a quiet everyday life.

If someone goes to Coal Town, there’s a good chance the narrative will progress a bit further. This isn’t to say that there isn’t any plot-related activity happening around Akita. However, as a more otherworldly and extraordinary area, we are drawn into helping to make a difference there. Especially in the case of restaurant revitalization and help with inventions. You can also take part in trolleybus races, which are one of the most active ways of spending time. But again, while it may seem like there’s more going on at times, we can set our own pace.

Since this is a very low stakes game where the player can take their time, some minor issues may seem like less of a problem. For example, catching errors can be a bit difficult. After all, they are small, and in the case of fireflies, it can be difficult to know when to swing the net. (I recommend seeking shade!) When completing a wildlife lore compendium or obtaining specific items for quests, it can be a bit frustrating if you just can’t find the right fish or ore you need. (The shadow shapes of the fish vary, although they are difficult to see, and Shiro sometimes warns you about rare items!)

Plus I feel like the design and environmental direction means that even if someone wouldn’t normally be a fan Crayon Shin-chan, Shin-chan: Shiro and the coal city it can still turn out to be an extremely attractive game. Both Akita and Coal Town designs are amazing and yet very different. They occupy completely opposite ends of the spectrum. In Akita we have these wide, open, natural spaces filled with greenery, rustic homes and more natural elements. Coal Town is a cobbled industrial town. At first glance, it’s clear that the mines are the main reason it exists at all. Even though it is crowded, polluted and densely populated, it is equally beautiful.

Shin-chan: Shiro and the coal city is a slow life simulation game combined with an addictive adventure featuring the mysterious Coal Town. As a result, it’s a really relaxing and enjoyable game. You can spend time with him and enjoy the atmosphere. The only thing that may prevent some people from appreciating or enjoying this experience is the presence of Shin-chan himself, as not everyone can appreciate his humor or the series’ character design. Still, even if you’re scared, it’s a soothing way to enjoy the last bits of summer before winter arrives.

Shin-chan: Shiro and the coal city is available on Nintendo Switch and PC.