Neko-Mimi Sweet Housemates Vol. 2

NEKO-MIMI SWEET HOUSEMATES Vol. 2 (Uchi no Pet Jijou Vol. 2) picks up on what the previous title was able to achieve and dives deeper into its established setting, creating an overall better narrative experience that not only capitalizes on its visual appeal but crafts a sort of identity for itself. Incorporating mortality as a theme through the use of recurring half-animal angels and demons as members of its cast, it tells a story that revolves around loss while maintaining a generally cute aesthetic look powered by Live2D motion. Additionally, the changes it made since Vol. 1 in terms of story direction give much-needed substance to what previously felt like very secondary characters, making it much easier for readers like myself to become invested in the heroines. ​Although it had a pretty strong showing for this installment, some missed opportunities were still present that were inherited from the prequel. The lack of gravity given to Mint and Master’s relationship for the most part damages how compelling the underlying romantic subplot is between them, which is a shame given how big of a role it played, and continues to play, when it comes to specific consequences in the plot. While a little bit better than before, Master still feels a little bit lacking as a participant in the game’s plot due to how flimsy his motivation feels relative to what spurs him to action. Stronger instances of decision-making from himself as a protagonist would make him a more compelling character to follow, alongside being given a name, perhaps. ​If you liked the first volume, pick up this next one as well. NEKO-MIMI SWEET HOUSEMATES, despite how silly the title sounds, has improved a lot compared to its previous iteration. It feels like it was finally able to settle into an identity for itself that it’s comfortable with, without necessarily forgoing the initial premise of cute, half-animal girls that it initially set as its market pitch. From what was initially a feel-good visual novel, it now offers a narrative that helps readers appreciate the series beyond its visual appearance. With the current direction it’s taking, I’m excited for what else Animal Herb decides to share with us in the next installments. Cute girls and a pretty good story that offers points to reflect on regarding life, what more can you ask for?