The classic adventure game "Steins;Gate" is getting a long-awaited reboot, and before it even officially drops, fans are already observing a "worldline shift" – specifically, in heroine Makise Kurisu's bust size in the new opening animation.
Originally launched in 2009, "Steins;Gate" is making a grand return as "Steins;Gate RE:BOOT." While fans are hyped for the classic's comeback, the recently released official opening animation has sparked an unexpected debate, all thanks to a side-by-side comparison of Makise Kurisu's old and new designs.
Check out the official OP for "Steins;Gate RE:BOOT" below:
Japanese netizens quickly noticed that while the "RE:BOOT" version of Makise Kurisu largely maintains her original pose, her chest lines appear noticeably more prominent than in the 2009 original. After putting the old and new versions side-by-side, one user quipped, "16 years have passed, and even her bust size has changed!" The post immediately blew up online.
Given that "Steins;Gate" itself revolves around time travel, worldline convergence, and altering destiny, some fans jokingly suggested that a real-life worldline shift had occurred. Others dubbed the new Makise Kurisu "Christina from the busty worldline."
▼The top image shows the new "Steins;Gate RE:BOOT" screen, while the bottom is from a previous version
However, some long-time fans argue that Makise Kurisu's appeal wasn't about sex appeal. Instead, it was her intellectual charm as a genius scientist, her cool demeanor, and the intense dynamic she shared with Rintaro Okabe. If the new version overemphasizes her figure, some fans might feel it deviates from the character's essence they remember.
On the flip side, other fans believe this difference might simply be a visual effect stemming from evolving art styles. Even though the reboot is still helmed by original character designer huke, it's unrealistic to expect the art style to remain exactly as it was in 2009. Plus, "Steins;Gate RE:BOOT" isn't just a simple HD remaster; it's updating character outfits and accessories to give the overall visuals a more modern feel.
"Steins;Gate RE:BOOT" is currently slated for release on August 20, 2026. While the comparison of Makise Kurisu's old and new designs has certainly stirred up some unexpected buzz, the chance to play this rebooted classic is still incredibly exciting!