I like this direction. However, it's a lot more janky. There are reasons why the classic controls are why they are. Forwards, backwards, check map, check status. They are staple* for this genre.
I love the new design and wish to be able to change their clothes. Ideally.
I like the way the new UI look, it has a retro aesthetic. But you could have done away and turned it into a menu. Classic controls** The towel for example, I had to move the window it was on to interact with the background. When it was possible to just have the towel or item on a side bar. An inventory.
But if this is permanent, please make the interactive points away from the window. You can get creative with it and hide someone or something in special events.
I also find it interesting that every girl will now be a main girl. I wonder how you'll achieve this.
I'm excited for your plans for this, and it looks like you are working your ass off to get it back to speed. I'm very happy that you plan to transfer and convert the old save files.