Process of Elimination Review

Release date: April 11, 2023

Publisher: NIS America

Developer: Nippon Ichi Software

Genre: Adventure game

Platforms: Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4

"Review Copy Provided By NIS America"

Process of Elimination stands out in the visual novel genre, captivating the player with its intense and intricate mystery theme. This game is not for those who shy away from intensity, offering a narrative that keeps you engaged from start to finish. The game's core revolves around you stepping into the shoes of Wato Hojo, a budding detective. He's suddenly part of the Detective Alliance, tasked with unraveling a series of murders that have claimed over a hundred lives. The culprit, known as the Quartering Duke, is killing in pairs, and shockingly, one of the detectives is the mastermind. The plot thickens with connections to Wato's past and crimes from a decade ago. Your choices as Wato will decide the fate of the story.

The gameplay intertwines traditional visual novel storytelling with strategic investigation. You'll navigate through critical decisions impacting the narrative, often foreshadowed by the game's dialogue and text. Failure in crucial argumentation segments, indicated by a Trust Meter, results in game over, emphasizing the importance of sound reasoning. The investigation is a tactical affair, with detectives functioning as units on a grid amidst evidence points, keywords, and mystery points. Analyzing evidence helps in deducing the mysteries within a set time frame, adding to the game's complexity. These sections can be challenging, with various obstacles and each detective's unique abilities and stats playing a pivotal role.

The game's thematic depth is noteworthy. It avoids over-reliance on common anime tropes, instead delving into the darker realms of murder and despair. Yet, it balances this with a message of hope and resilience. Its storyline, although dark, is akin to a coming-of-age tale in its essence. However, the game is not without its technical flaws. The inability to save during critical segments can be frustrating, especially if faced with a game crash. Also, the lack of an option to restart investigation segments without a complete game reload can be a nuisance, particularly in more challenging parts.

Despite these issues, Process of Elimination remains a standout in the mystery visual novel category, possibly ranking as my top choice in the genre. Its compelling storyline, rich character development, and unexpected plot twists make it a memorable experience. While some characters feel underutilized, the game leaves room for potential future expansions in its universe. It's a complete story, yet Wato's journey feels like it's just beginning.

Process of Elimination is a must-play for mystery enthusiasts and fans of NIS America's darker titles. Its engaging story, strategic gameplay elements, and overall presentation make its runtime fly by. This visual novel is a solid recommendation for its genre admirers.