Well, anyway, I did a quick playthrough of the English fan translated Tokimeki Memorial! Like a fool, I attempted (and failed) the notorious Shiori route. Landed Ayako, tho!
I won't give up, Shiori! I'll get you to confess some day!
I was today years old when I learned that Bub and Bob from Bubble Bobble are... humans?! They get changed into "bubble dragon" forms via magic! I... How did I never know this...?
Since I'm playing through Atelier Ayesha right now I totally just remembered Toukiden, which also had beautiful Hidari illustrations. I remember wanting to check these out in the Vita era but never did. Maybe some day!