What does it mean to live? Our existence on this planet is such a curious one. Humans have managed to cultivate the planet as their own and dictate their own niche for how they want to live. But what does it truly mean to be alive? Is eating, sleeping and procreating our only purpose? Is anything extra on top of that meaningless filler? What is the point of everything human society has built up through the years? As I’m typing all of this out, I can’t stop myself from taking a more nihilistic viewpoint on life, and yet, we as humans can strive for our own answers and look for something satisfying to soothe our soul. Having stepped into the realm of consciousness and self-awareness, humans can formulate their own answers, separate from their pure biological functions. The reason for empathy, the reason for hope, the reason for love, is encompassed in our intrinsic desire for connection and relationships for others. As social creatures, there is nothing greater than forming ever-lasting bonds and because of that desire, we push ourselves out into the world in search of others, as we prepare to tackle the challenge thrusted before us, that of living out our lives to the fullest in the best way we see fit.

The main thematic linchpin holding both of Toneworks’s largest works, Hoshi Ori Yume Mirai and Gin’iro Haruka, together is that of love as a means for self-betterment to drive ourselves to be better people. There is an innate power within these bonds and they are the ultimate driving force in molding us into the best versions of ourselves. The ability to communicate and share ideas with others is a powerful tool that allows us to grow as people. And while there is fear associated with putting ourselves out there, we know the outcome will be worth making ourselves vulnerable in front of others. Love is a tool that can be used to help us strive towards an ideal and can be the missing piece of the puzzle to aid us in that final step. Through companionship, through everlasting commitment and through the willingness of sacrifice, that ethereal elusiveness of living can be finally understood to some capacity, as shown in both Hoshi Ori and GinHaru.

What Toneworks accomplishes so well in their works is establishing the tone and theme from the opening scenes. Using the concept of a high school as its canvas for its themes, each scene is potent with thematic undertones. It ultimately culminates in the after stories for each heroine, showing the hard earned labour of the protagonist and the chosen heroine in full force. Through undying love and mutual support, a life worth living can be fully realized. The bonds we create, every step we take towards reaching out to someone, its full impact can never be understated. Both protagonists start out empty handed in some way, but find themselves on an elaborate journey that will see them take the next steps in their maturation through love and companionship.

A feeling of loneliness. A deep yearning for connections. The fear of the unknown lies ahead, but only through perseverance, will their fruits truly blossom. These feelings bombard both protagonists, establishing the core conceit from the get-go for both VNs. While one has the necessary drive and aspiration to push himself towards his own dream, the other is aimlessly wandering about, with no clear direction and is in need of a guiding hand to push him in the right direction. This main distinction is what separates these two works and sets the core thematic dissonance between the two.

Hoshi Ori is a VN about reaching for future aspirations and honouring the past, using love to push the limits of what is possible and striving for an ideal. GinHaru is a VN of mutual persistence and understanding through love, overcoming trials to reach that happy ending. While on first glance, they appear seemingly similar, they have different nuances in how the themes play out in their respective routes. That ultimate goal of living is discovered through love in both work, but the hurdles and challenges presented set up an appreciable difference in tone.

Memories of that day, memories of you, I wish upon a star to always be with you. Hoshi Ori intertwines the nostalgia of the past with aspirations for the future as each plays an integral part in the growth of each character. Ryousuke dreams of being an architect, his memories of the past always acting like a fire, pushing him forward towards his goal. However, he learns quickly that mere dreams will only take him so far in achieving his goal. Everyone has a dream for the future, but that isn’t enough to see it through to the end. Having a tangible ideal to strive towards and fighting a constant battle to ensure it will be achieved, it is this important mindset that separates a mere dream from an actualization of an ideal. Ryousuke, through his partner, is able to find the motivation to set his sights towards striving to be the best he can be to ensure that his dream will be more than just that. The memories he creates along the way quite literally shapes his road for the future, as the influence of his partner will alter the course he takes in striving toward his ideal. And so, Ryosuke wishes upon a star to stay with that important motivator, his love of his life, because without them, the light at the end of his arduous tunnel would be extinguished, his dream staying as just that, a mere dream.

Marika’s past was filled with hardship. Afflicted with asthma, she could not attend school often and did not have many friends. But there was a beacon of light that saved her, Ryousuke. It was through his efforts that her elementary school life was not wrought with pain and suffering. Growing up, memories of that kind boy would always remain with her. Without the generosity she received from him, she would be, without a doubt, a different person. And so, she resolves to reciprocate that kindness she received as a child to those around her, to be that positive impact on someone’s life as that boy had been to her. Together, memories and aspirations work together to form a harmonic symbiosis, guiding Marika through her life. And if that boy were to happen to fall in love with her as she had so many years prior, a rock solid bond will be fostered. With the loving support of Marika, Ryousuke gains a life-long partner that will support no matter how tough things become. And Marika gains that final piece to the puzzle of her life: that of her childhood wish coming into fruition. She becomes a nursery worker and in turn, is able to help the children around grow up in a nurturing environment. This kindness rubs off on Ryousuke and it reflects in how he approaches his work as an architect, determined to also spread out his kindness towards his clients. Memories of simple kindness manifests as aspiration for a more empathetic world, one element at a time. The bond between Ryousuke and Marika represents that of pushing themselves to be better people, to create a fulfilling life for them.

Misa is in a dilemma. With seemingly no recourse, her beloved aquarium is forced to shut down. Her precious memories of happiness and serenity are all but lost. The situation is crushing, but she has to stay strong. There’s no point in crying over spilt milk. And thus, her seemingly dull life continues onward, those fun and happy times at the aquarium becoming nothing but distant memories. That is, until she meets a boy, a boy with aspirations to become an architect. That boy, with no tangible dream, still yearns forward and does his best in somehow achieving his dream one step at a time. Ryousuke comes to learn of Misa’s hidden pain and he vows to protect her memories, to ensure they will find a way to live on. The simple act of protecting those memories is the catalyst for Ryousuke and Misa to try their hardest to honour Misa’s past memories. And thus, as they grow older, their shared dream becomes a reality as they find a way to rebuild the Shionagi Aquarium. Ryousuke’s empathetic sentiments for Misa’s damaged memories act as a motivator for them to aspire together to rebuild what was lost to them. The bond they forged provided a new shelter for Misa’s memories, changing their life in the process and challenging the status quo presented before them. Through Misa’s memories, Ryousuke finds a proper ideal to strive for. The love fostered between the two acts as the flame to push them forward. Together, they can overcome any challenge life throws at them.

Sora feels insignificant in the grand scheme of things. Her one passion in life is astronomy and nothing else interests her. Anti-social and reticent, she lacks the proper social skills to truly develop ever-lasting bonds. However, that fateful encounter with a transfer student on the school roof would set the course for a drastic change in her life. Before she knew it, she became friends with so many more people, her life suddenly abundant with color. Spending more time than ever with that generous and patient transfer student, repressed memories of the past resurfaced in her mind. As fate would have it, she had known that boy from before, the very one that instilled her love of the stars into her. And so, she slowly but surely awakened her potential, wanting to live up to the dream that boy put into her so many years ago. Quite literally reaching for the stars, that boy helped realize her potential and intrinsic value and that her unique nature is not useless at all. Together, the two strive for their ultimate potential, the memories of their shared past serving as a reminder to always do their best. The boy opens up his own architect firm and Sora vows to become an astronomy expert. Memories of that day brought them back together and united, the face life head on as they aspire to be the best they can be.

Natsuki is a busy body. She spends her time photographing everything that she can. Due to her role on the Alumni Committee, she is dedicated in doing her best to preserve the little moments before her. Preserving memories one by one, she keeps a record of those moments. With the help of a transfer student, she is able to build a nest of memories. By aspiring to always remember the past, it is a method of treasuring the past and using it as a guide for the future. The bond Natsuki made with that boy will remain eternal not only in their hearts but in picture as well. By realizing that their own preservation of the past completes them as people, both of them strive to create everlasting memories for others, whether through her photography or through his architecture. It is impossible to strive for something when there is a lack of proper memories, so by preserving them, they can always be recalled upon to serve as a gentle reminder to continue striving forward. And thus, Natsuki and Ryousuke deepen their bond for each other by both having a goal to pursue and memories from the past to recall upon.

Rikka is crushed by the weight of her circumstances. She comes from a family of famed pianists and her younger sister is already a step ahead of her. Toiling in her own worthlessness, Rikka spends her days by herself, bitter at her own incompetence. Not a day goes by where she is not crushed by the gravity of her situation. That is, until she meets a boy. Reluctant to open up at first, she eventually opens up to that boy. Her simple friendship blossomed and before she knew it, inklings of love began to sprout inside of her. That boy gave her the confidence to be proud of her music, to have the freedom to be the musician who she wants to be and not something that she was propped up to be. Her past memories of failure become contradicted as she is able to spark so much joy within Ryousuke through her music. She finds true happiness and makes peace with herself, realizing that it was her own mentality that was holding her back, not her circumstances. Because of her revelation, she aspires to not become the best musician, but rather one she can be proud of. Having an actualization of a goal allows Rikka to pursue music with more confidence and gives her the motivation to push herself and face life with conviction. Because of her bond with Ryousuke, she realizes the errors of her past self-grievances. Seeing so much joy within the boy is enough to give her the confidence to strive for a brighter future for herself instead of mulling in self-doubt. Sometimes, all it takes to spark joy in life is validation from someone else; otherwise, a life spent wallowing in self-hatred is left waiting ahead. And through her music, Rikka is able to express the feelings of gratitude she has towards that boy who saved her pit of depression and in turn, that boy is able to strive to be an architect that he can be proud of as well.

Touko is a drifter. Her entire life has been spent moving around from city to city, unable to make proper connections with other people. Forced to put on a jovial and playful facade, she hides her torment the best way she knows how. Despite all of this, all she wants is to have some kind of worth and not just be some background character. Years of moving around without forming any long term relationships have induced a sense of worthlessness within her, that there is no way anyone could ever enjoy her company. And thus, she transfers to another school, this time in Shionagi. Again, she has to go through the same motions of keeping up her bubbly facade while hiding her pain from everyone else. And yet, she meets a persistent boy. No matter how many times she tries to avoid him, he would always find some way to see her again. Little by little, that boy opened up to her and likewise, she did the same. Even if it hurted, she fell in love with the persistent boy. Still plagued with self-worthlessness, she continued with that bubbly facade. As the days passed, she knew that she could leave at any moment, that it was not worth falling in love with her. Dejected by her seemingly iron-shackled fate, she steels herself for another fresh start, having to leave the boy she loves. That boy realizes her depression and with all her friends, opens her eyes to her intrinsic value. Despite her own personal misgiving, she does have value and is an important part in all of their lives. With all of her memories flashing back into her, she realizes the positive effect she has on others and that in spite of her own personal worthlessness, the people around her do not take her for granted. Awakened to this realization, Touko then aspires to continue to be a positive impact on those around her, especially to that ever-so persistent boy who opened her eyes to the world around her. And so, as the two continue on the path of life, they walk hand-in-hand, supporting each other every step of the way as they achieve their dreams together. As that boy becomes an architect, Touko becomes an interior designer, so she can be with that boy every step of the way. There is worth in living after all, do not give up as there are so many people that rely on you, instead aspire to be a positive impact for them and challenge life one step at a time.

The core theme of Hoshi Ori Yume Mirai is that of using memories of the past to create aspirations for the future to live the most fulfilling life possible. Ryousuke and each of the six heroines undergo this arc during their respective routes, with each route having its own spin on the central idea. To truly grow as people, understanding the past is essential in making strides towards the future. Whether it is overcoming past trauma, gaining a proper understanding in something by recontextualizing it, figuring out a dream, or something else entirely, the past and present play an important part in developing the future. Only then, will the road of life be made clear and a happy ending can be achieved. Sometimes these things are hard to observe and that is where bonds are essential. By having a third party observer, another perspective can be gained and greater connections and ideas can be formed. Forming a bond with that third party observer is crucial in attaining a life time partner that will act as both a guide and someone to lean on. Having someone there to offer support and guidance might be the final step someone may need to push themselves out of a depression. Pushing each other to do better and striving to be the best version of each other, only then will the key to growth be ultimately unlocked. Together we ride, towards that bright unyielding future.

Winter comes around, we meet again. GinHaru tackles the idea of sustained persistence and that through love, a mutual dream can be cultivated. Yukito, at the start, is lost. Without a compass guiding his footsteps, he wanders around aimlessly. Going through the motions of life, he wishes for something grander, something to spark his motivation to live his life to the fullest. And so on that fateful winter day, he meets a girl. And through her, he finds purpose. He grows, he evolves, until the trials in front of his path are surpassed. Every winter acts as an affirmation, a testament to Yukito’s resolve that he will strive towards something meaningful. It is all thanks to love that a meaningful existence can sprout and blossom within himself, changing a husk into a truly remarkable human being. Through love, he gains a way to understand others and his own desires. Left alone, Yukito would be left to rot away, having no reason to live. And so, on that chilly winter day, he makes a vow, a vow to be the best version of himself and to strive for that ultimate goal.

Hinata is directionless. Forever a dreamer, she has no true passions and it is always something that is nagging at the back of her mind. But that does not stop her from being a bubbly, energetic student. That is until she discovers an abandoned puppy with Yukito. This is the impetus that awakens her passion. Together with Yukito, they strive together to achieve their dreams together. That former husk finds purpose in living and is determined to overcome the trials that oppose her. Yukito becomes a veterinarian and Hinata opens a shop selling gods related to pets. Without Yukito, she would never have discovered her true calling in life. Through each other, they are able to guide each other to become better people and live more fulfilling lives.

Momiji wants to achieve her dream no matter what. Despite aspiring to be an actor, she has trouble being honest with herself. However, Yukito is able to relate with her front as he puts up a front too. Together, they overcome their fears and face the world together. While it is daunting to go into the unknown, if they do not push themselves out into the world, they will remain stagnant, never reaching their destined potential. Momiji’s honesty and desire to take risks pays off as she and Yukito join a theatre troupe, following their dreams onto the big stage. Through their acting, they are able to find meaning in their acting and really show off their true colors, growing as people and actors in the process. Instead of hiding their true selves, by revealing it to the world, Momiji is able to finally express herself. Momiji and Yukito act as each other’s guide, showing each other the way to that bright future.

Yuzuki wants to prove herself and overcome her past. Because of her father’s death, she has been reluctant to truly take up baking as her passion. It is through Yukito that she truly embraces her love for baking and strives to open up her own shop. There are trials in her way in order to become the top junior patissier but it is her bond with Yukito that ultimately makes her open her eyes to her potential. Realizing that the only way to succeed is to be happy with herself if she wants to make others happy, she affirms her will to Yukito, ensuring her growth as a chef. The only key she needs is to be happy, and being so absorbed in her work, she is unable to notice that herself. Yukito acts as her compass during her most important stage of her life, and together they are able to achieve their dream together.

Bethly is a fish out of water. Forced into a completely new country and having to adapt to a new language and culture, she is, without a doubt, lost. Her mother died recently as well, and it is easily palpable that Bethly is in a depressive state. Then she meets a kind Japanese boy. And without missing a beat, she regains her mental footing and finds joy in living again. As an artist, she finds purpose in drawing again and uses it as a venue to express her gratitude towards that Japanese boy who helped her in her troubled times. And even when they have to part from each other, they find a way to meet again and reaffirm their bond and purpose. Every winter that they meet, they swear to always be for each even if they are apart. Learning to accept change is difficult, but knowing that there is someone always waiting will lighten the burden, and thus, the trial of isolation can be conquered.

Mizuha deals with a heavy inferiority complex. Having studied in Russia, she realizes that she is a big fish in a small pond and there is a whole world she has yet to venture into. She faces many setbacks along the way, whether it be mental or physical ones. Following her return to Japan, Mizuha falls into a pit of depression. It is through Yukito’s belief in her as a skater that she is able to pull herself out of her depression. Yukito’s vow to her opens her eyes and allows herself to see her potential. She remembers the vow they made children and during that winter day, they reaffirm their childhood oath. Mizuha injures herself in high school and again, it is through Yukito’s conviction that Mizuha is able to push through and become a stronger person. Yukito finds his purpose in helping Mizuha with her sports development and Yukito’s determination rubs off on Mizuha as her dream of being an Olympic gold medalist is rekindled yet again. Through Yukito’s undying support, Mizuha is able to pick herself back on her feet and strive to be the best figure skater. Despite the many obstacles in their way, it is their faith in each other that allows them to quell the doubts surrounding them. Having a compass to always point in the right direction is what Mizuha needed and Yukito supported her throughout her entire journey. It is only because of each other that Mizuha and Yukito and their undying loyalty and conviction of their greatness that they are able to find their purpose in life.

While Gin’iro Haruka might not be as thematically powerful as Hoshi Ori, it still provides the reader with a sense of catharsis as the routes reach their conclusion, with their powerful journeys being able to provide context for self-evaluation. The sense of isolation and lack of direction associated with the characters are resonant throughout the whole work, which serves as the basis for the core idea of GinHaru. Each character feels lost in the world before them. Each has their own self-doubts and personal misgivings that drive them away from chasing their ultimate dream. However, through bonds and connections, these demons can be shattered and it will pave the way for a bright future. They act as each other’s compasses, allowing them to be guided to the right path and opening their eyes to their own potential. These characters create an iron solid will and that will allow them to overcome any trial thrown in their way. Even if they are apart, they keep their memories with them always as they work to strive forward. And when they do meet again, that seemingly distant silver light at the end of the tunnel becomes ever closer, shining towards the direction of that long-awaited happy ending.