What are the common themes in Japanese shrine visual novels?

One popular Japanese shrine - related visual novel is 'Katawa Shoujo'. It has a unique story and engaging characters, although it's not solely focused on shrines but has elements that touch on Japanese culture which may include shrines in the background. Another one could be 'Higurashi When They Cry'. It has a lot of Japanese cultural settings and might have scenes related to shrines as it portrays rural Japanese life to some extent.

One common theme is the idea of the shrine being a source of ancient evil. For example, in many novels, the shrine might be the resting place of an old demon or dark spirit that gets awakened.

There may be some 'western shrine visual novels' that are popular within certain circles. But compared to more common types of visual novels, they are not as well - known on a broader scale. Some developers might create these with a focus on a particular group of players who are interested in the combination of western settings and shrine - like concepts. It could be that in some local or specialized gaming communities, there are 'western shrine visual novels' that are highly regarded, but it would take some digging to find them as they haven't broken through to the general public's attention like other more popular visual novel sub - genres.

Another theme is the struggle for identity. In these novels, characters often grapple with their Japanese heritage while also trying to be seen as Americans. In 'Snow Falling on Cedars', the main character's Japanese - American identity is a central part of the story as he navigates a society that still holds prejudice against him due to his ethnicity.

One common theme is self - discovery. When the protagonist is reincarnated, they often have to figure out who they are in this new life and how to use their past experiences or knowledge. For example, in 'That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime', the protagonist uses his human knowledge to his advantage in the new slime form.

Survival is a common theme. Characters have to find ways to stay alive after being shipwrecked, like finding food and shelter. Another theme could be isolation. Being shipwrecked often means being alone or with a small group on an uninhabited island, which can lead to psychological changes. For example, they might question their values and beliefs.

A lot of Japanese novels deal with social issues. For instance, 'Battle Royale' can be seen as a commentary on society and youth. Family relationships are also a common theme. In 'All About Lily Chou - Chou', the family situation of the characters affects their growth and development. Additionally, there is the theme of the search for meaning in life. 'Kafka on the Shore' has the characters constantly looking for their purpose in a rather strange and complex world.

One common theme is the struggle with identity. Japanese Americans often have to navigate between their Japanese heritage and American upbringing. For example, in many novels, characters feel torn between the traditional values of their Japanese families and the modern, Western values of the United States.

One common theme is the breakdown of society. For example, in 'Battle Royale', the social order has degraded to the point where the government sanctions such cruel games for its own purposes. It shows how institutions can fail and lead to a world of chaos.

The experience of discrimination and internment during World War II is another major theme. In 'Snow Falling on Cedars', the internment is a backdrop that shapes the lives of the characters. It shows how the unjust treatment affected the Japanese American community both during and after that time.