NG is a visual novel survival horror that is developed by Experience Inc and Ghostlight and is published by Experience Inc and Aksys Games. You play as a young man in a race against time to not only save himself but someone very dear to him. The story takes place within the city where a simple game such as hide and seek is anything but child’s play. You’ll have to face off against spirits, and search for the truth if you want to survive. At first I was a bit put off that NG didn’t start out as strong as its predecessor. It’s quite the slow start and left me wondering, when something eerie was going to happen. Despite the slow beginning once it gets going the story packs a punch and isn’t afraid to hit you where it hurts.
The raw emotion invoked by learning the truth of what happened to said spirit is powerful. Each story gets more and more intense. Just when you think a line has been set, the next story crosses it. For someone who is invested in both the characters and the story this game delivers entirely. Both the living and the spirits in this game feel very real.
The game marks the second installment of the Spirit Hunter games. While it’s not a direct sequel to Death Mark; there are mentions throughout NG. It’s done in the form of card hunting which interestingly enough will have you hunting for each card for the next bit of information. Which I found to be a charming detail that made the game even more enjoyable.
NG uses the same point and click mechanics as the previous game. You can also move using the directional arrows on the controller. It’s worth mentioning that you can now expand the map to better navigate the area. Plus they added name plates, making it possible to distinguish who is talking. Another feature that will have you really thinking is the decision whether or not to purify or to purge the grudge of the spirit. If you choose the latter you could end up losing a valuable teammate along the way.
The game is a lot more interactive where the protagonist can react to the characters around them. They go so far as to base the situation around the protagonist’s facial expressions. Rather than have a character who’s a blank slate like most visual novel games; they’ve allowed the player to be further immersed in the story. There are more puzzles to solve some of which are fairly easy to complete. While others will take a moment to stop and think. Some require you to have the right partner. Though the game normally will hint or directly tell you that you don’t have the right person. It’s an easy fix as going right outside and switching, so it’s not a frustrating mistake.
The music is hauntingly beautiful and does a wonderful job of evoking emotion proper for the scene. Alongside the art that is one part grotesque and the other breathtaking, the music compliments each area. Each note is impactful and does an amazing job of setting the scene. Overall I enjoyed my time with NG once the game got started it was honestly hard to put down. The way the title manages to invoke emotion truly impressed me. The soundtrack is so enchantingly eerie that I could listen to it on repeat. Plus the visuals and use of color had me in awe at every turn. Add in quirky characters who make the experience enjoyable along the way and I’m there.
There’s talk of another game in the works which is set to release next year in the East. Although there’s no talk of a NA release presently I shall eagerly be waiting. Personally I can’t wait to see what’s next for this series and the company itself.
You can find NG on the following platforms Playstation, Playstation Vita Nintendo Switch and Steam.
~Thage Basilisk~ 