The upcoming remake of the classic visual novel ToHeart has generated considerable excitement among fans, and the recent official trailer is adding fuel to the fire. The trailer offers a delightful introduction to the heroines, showcasing their updated 3D models and providing a glimpse into the heartwarming story that has captivated audiences for over two decades. This article dives into the details of the remake, exploring what makes ToHeart such a beloved title and what fans can expect from this modern reimagining.
A Heartfelt Return to a Beloved Classic
Originally released in 1997 as an eroge visual novel for PC, ToHeart quickly gained popularity for its engaging characters and touching narrative. It was later ported to the PlayStation with adult content removed, broadening its appeal and solidifying its place as a classic in the romance simulation genre. The game follows the story of Hiroyuki, an ordinary high school student who navigates the complexities of friendship and love as he interacts with a diverse cast of female characters.
The remake, titled ToHeart, is set to launch on June 26, 2025, for Nintendo Switch and PC via Steam. Developed by Aquaplus, the remake boasts fully realized 3D models, updated visuals, and the option to switch between the original and a new voice cast, offering both nostalgia and a fresh experience. For the first time, the game will also feature an official English translation, making it accessible to a wider international audience.
Meet the Heroines: A Charming Cast Reimagined
The heart of ToHeart lies in its endearing characters, each with their unique personalities and heartwarming stories. The official trailer provides a closer look at some of the key heroines:
- Akari Kamigishi: Hiroyuki’s childhood friend and next-door neighbor, Akari is a kind and supportive presence in his life. Voiced by Kana Ichinose in the remake (originally voiced by Ayako Kawasumi), Akari’s gentle nature and unwavering loyalty make her a cornerstone of the ToHeart experience. Her mother, Hikari Kamigashi, is also featured; she is voiced by Yuko Gibu, replacing Ayako Kawasumi. Hikari is portrayed as a gentle woman with a love for children who works as a tutor for both cooking and traditional Japanese dress. Her voice is so similar to Akari’s that Hiroyuki sometimes gets them confused.
- Multi: Known as a hallmark of moe character design, Multi is a spirited and cheerful maid robot. Her cute demeanor and somewhat sad backstory have resonated with fans for years. Hina Youmiya voices Multi in the remake, taking over from Yui Horie.
- Lemmy Miyauchi: A girl in Hiroyuki’s year who was born in California to an international couple. Voiced by Ai Fukada (originally voiced by Rumi Kasahara), Lemmy’s cheerful, easygoing personality and flashy style come off as stereotypically American, but in her heart, there is a demure Japanese woman.
- Kotone Himekawa: One year Hiroyuki’s junior, she tends to be avoided by most of the school due to the apparently supernatural phenomenon that she set off as soon as she enrolled. Voiced by Yuka Nukui, replacing Kyoko Hikami. She rarely speaks and does not seek social interaction, but as Hiroyuki tries to befriend her, she finds herself slowly opening her heart.
The remake also introduces Kakeru Hota as Shiho (originally voiced by Chieko Higuchi ), Saho Shirasu as Aoi Matsubara (originally voiced by Mayumi Iizuka ), and Shōgo Sakata as protagonist Hiroyuki Fujita (unvoiced in the original game, but voiced by Kazuya Ichijō in the anime).
What to Expect from the ToHeart Remake
The ToHeart remake promises a comprehensive overhaul of the original game, while staying true to its core essence. Here’s a breakdown of what players can anticipate:
- 3D Graphics: One of the most significant changes is the transition to fully 3D character models and environments. This modern approach aims to breathe new life into the visuals, creating a more immersive and engaging experience. The characters’ designs have been updated to reflect a more contemporary aesthetic while retaining their original charm.
- Updated Art and High-Definition Support: The game features updated art in full high-definition, ensuring that it looks crisp and vibrant on modern displays. With support for modern Windows systems, players can enjoy the game without compatibility issues.
- Voice Cast Options: The remake offers the option to switch between the original voice cast and a new cast of voice actors. This allows players to experience the game with the voices they grew up with or discover a fresh interpretation of the characters.
- English and Chinese Translations: For the first time, ToHeart will be officially translated into English and Chinese. This marks a significant milestone for the game, making it accessible to a broader audience and allowing fans worldwide to experience the heartfelt story.
- Gameplay Enhancements: While details are still emerging, the remake is expected to include gameplay enhancements to improve the overall experience. These may include quality-of-life improvements, updated user interface elements, and potentially new story content or scenarios.
- Release Platforms and Editions: ToHeart will be available on Nintendo Switch and PC via Steam. The game will have a download version on both platforms, as well as a regular physical edition on the Switch. A premium edition will also be available on both the Switch and Steam, including all 13 episodes of the game’s 1999 television anime adaptation.
A Legacy of Love and Influence
ToHeart holds a special place in the history of visual novels and dating sims. Its influence can be seen in numerous otaku media that followed, with its character designs and relaxed pacing setting a standard for the genre. The game’s success led to a sequel, ToHeart2, in 2004, as well as two anime series: ToHeart in 1999 and ToHeart – Remember my memories in 2004, which focused on Multi.
The original ToHeart was initially released as an eroge visual novel for PC in 1997. A console version was released for the PlayStation in 1999, with the adult content removed. The PlayStation version also included three mini-games not available in the PC version: Circle Triangle Square X, Heart by Heart, and Ojousama wa Majo.
ToHeart‘s enduring appeal lies in its ability to create relatable characters and weave heartwarming stories that resonate with players. The remake aims to capture this essence while updating the game for a modern audience. With its enhanced visuals, voice cast options, and official English translation, the ToHeart remake is poised to introduce a new generation of fans to the magic of this beloved visual novel.
Final Thoughts: A Reason to be Excited
As the release date approaches, the ToHeart remake continues to generate buzz and anticipation. The official trailer’s introduction of the heroines has only heightened the excitement, offering a tantalizing glimpse into the world of ToHeart and the characters that make it so special. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to the series, the ToHeart remake promises a heartfelt and unforgettable experience.
