Review:

"Motherless - Season 1" dives into a poignant narrative centered around Sunny, whose quest to find his mother forms the backbone of this visual novel. With over 11 chapters, 10,000 renders, and 178 videos, the game promises a rich storytelling experience, and it largely delivers on that promise.

The Good:

Storytelling: The narrative is engaging, with twists and turns that keep you invested in Sunny's journey. The backstory of separation from his mother at birth adds a layer of emotional depth that resonates well.
Visuals and Audio: The graphics are commendable, with a variety of animated scenes that enhance the storytelling. The sound design complements the visuals, creating an immersive experience.
Character Development: Characters are diverse in ethnicity and personality, which adds to the game's inclusivity. The relationship manager allows for some level of personalization in how you interact with each character, making the choices feel impactful.
Gameplay Elements: The inclusion of mini-games and interactive elements breaks the monotony typical to some visual novels, providing a bit more engagement.

The Not-So-Good:

Pacing: At times, the story can feel a bit dragged out, especially in the middle chapters. The balance between advancing the plot and character development could be better managed.
Content: While the game is marketed for mature audiences, some might find the harem elements a bit cliché or even off-putting, depending on personal taste. It somewhat detracts from the more serious undertones of the mother-son reunion plot.
Choices: Although choices are available, their impact on the overall narrative can seem minimal at times, which might frustrate players looking for significant story divergence based on their decisions.

Conclusion:

"Motherless - Season 1" is a visual novel that successfully marries a compelling story with engaging gameplay elements. However, it does suffer from some pacing issues and a narrative that occasionally leans too heavily into fan-service territory. If you're a fan of visual novels with a focus on story and character, you'll find much to enjoy here, but be prepared for some uneven moments.

Rating: 7/10

Would recommend it for those who enjoy deep, story-driven games with adult themes, but with the caveat to manage expectations regarding the depth of choice impact and story pacing.