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Kohei MinatoVA: Yuuichirou Umehara

First of all, what are your thoughts now that recording has wrapped up?
The story isn't set in a fantasy realm but rather in an office, which, interestingly, gives the whole thing a fresh vibe. I don't have much experience with office settings, which posed challenges in deciding how to portray the nuance in certain scenes. So I thought it was best to act by envisioning how it would be. Even though the game isn't rooted in fantasy, many of the characters come across as elite, rather than your typical "ordinary" individuals.
Can you tell us about your impressions of the script when you first read it, and if your impression changed at all after playing the role?
I think my personality is really similar to the character I played. Age-wise, I'm of the Yutori* generation. (Laughs) But honestly, mindset-wise, there's a big part of me that's like the Satori** generation, so he was very easy for me to portray. He had the vibes of someone I can truly imagine existing.

*Yutori Generation: Refers to those who grew up under Japan's revised "pressure-free education" system, which focused on creating a more relaxed and creative educational environment. Critics argue that because of this, those of the Yutori generation are less competitive, less disciplined, and less prepared to enter the workforce.
**Satori Generation: Refers to a generation of young people who are more interested in finding personal self-fulfillment over traditional measures of financial or material success.


For instance, in his introductory scene, he asks, "Why should we go out for a drink together?" and such. (Laughs) I truly understood where he was coming from! He also has a knack for handling his colleagues and his boss. Encountering these nuances made the story feel genuine and helped me immerse myself.

Comparing Minato's demeanor from the start to the end, it's evident he becomes gentler as events unfold. He tackles numerous challenges, and alongside the protagonist and their coworkers, undergoes significant transformation.
Personally, I felt he really matured in both a personal and professional sense over the course of his route. Moreover, in the romantic interactions with the main character, I was taken aback by his assertiveness! (Laughs) However, it's this blend of assertiveness with his composed, slightly aloof demeanor that makes him an intriguing character.
What do you think is the primary appeal of your character, and what were you conscious of while recording them?
The defining trait of my character is his sharp intellect and logic. Initially, I aimed to deliver his lines quickly, almost like he was rattling off data rather than conveying feelings. However, as he began to engage more with the main character and those around him, I gradually adjusted to make his voice warmer and less mechanical to show his evolving humanity. In the early scenes, maintaining a rapid pace was quite the challenge. I consciously kept my voice even-toned and restricted my mouth movements. Hearing the transformation in my voice throughout the story was an intriguing experience, albeit demanding.
Can you tell us about a scene that you particularly enjoyed or one that stood out to you?
When it comes to Minato, he's grappling with his own issues, and if you interacted with him solely at work, those might remain hidden. Yet despite his personal challenges, he consistently excels at his job. No matter what's going on behind the scenes in his life, he pulls through professionally. There's this tangible passion for work that every character embodies, making them feel like authentic employees of a real company. What caught my attention was how the main character remains silent, voicing her thoughts only through internal monologues. I initially wondered if this would complicate the narrative, perhaps making my lines echo her thoughts. However, that wasn't the case. The storytelling flowed seamlessly, and everything felt organic. I think all of these aspects add up to make a very enjoyable experience for the player.
The story of this game revolves around an "information app." Can you tell us about some of the apps you often use, or an app you wish existed?
I use a lot of news apps. Let's see what else... I don't play many games. For me, it's more about apps that provide new information. Aside from that, I mostly use communication apps and social media. I have a dictionary too, along with an accent dictionary. But I also just love physical paper dictionaries... (Laughs) Sometimes, I like to open a random page and read the inside.

As for an app I'd like... How about an app that can measure the humidity? There are weather apps that can do that, but having one for the exact place you're standing would be great.
Also, one that can visually show how damaged my throat is! (Laughs) I could check it and realize, "oh, my throat is more sore than I thought..."
Are there any characters in the game that you relate to?
I'd have to say that Minato and I share very similar personalities. In terms of someone who is the total opposite of me, yet is someone I'd enjoy hanging around with, it would be Saotome. Having someone who casually teases and knows how to treat Minato in a carefree manner while elevating the energy would be ideal in a workplace. Honestly, there are times when I might find someone like Minato annoying to be around. (Laughs)
The game features various occupations: app developers, heirs to big companies, freeloaders, bartenders. Would you like to try any of them in particular?
It has to be a freeloader, right? (Laughs) Although I question whether it's a job though. I wouldn't excel at sales, nor would I make a good CEO. The more I ponder it, the more convinced I am that being a freeloader might be the only thing I could do. Even if I didn't perform my duties perfectly, I wouldn't have to stress. (Laughs) As long as I had enough to eat, I believe I could embrace the freeloader lifestyle indefinitely. However, I'm not confident in my ability to persuade someone to support me. So, instead of actively becoming a freeloader, I'd rather have someone approach me and tell me, "you're a freeloader," and they just offer me a place. I genuinely hope I can be a freeloader in my next life! (Laughs)
Finally, do you have a message for the fans?
The setting of Sympathy Kiss is an office, so I believe it will resonate with anyone working in such an environment. For students, it might provide a glimpse into office life, which could be exciting! Each character feels genuine, so I'm confident you'll find one to your liking. And I sincerely hope it's Minato! Initially, he might appear intimidating, even robotic, but as the story unfolds, you'll discover his depth. I hope you enjoy it!
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Licensed to and published by IDEA FACTORY INTERNATIONAL.
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*ESRB rating is for US/CANADA only.

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