Thanks for the constructive criticism!😊
I tried applying some elements with Yuma, such as having her eye color match the choker's, having the orange-green color scheme in her design (which is also kept throughout the game), and so on. She is obviously very anime-inspired, including the overall 'blander' look of anime characters in romance-heavy shows. I will try to read up more on character design for the next time!
Regarding hiring artists: I can't afford it, especially not for that many CGs. Learning to draw is one option, but going that route, the visual novel would have been never completed, realistically. Using AI makes it possible for me to realize my vision, and well as be proof that I am able to get projects like this done, which will help for possible future projects with real artists without AI use.
And well, the game also will be free to compensate for AI issues, so yeah.