Case 03: True Cannibal Boy
- September 18, 2023
- Sounding Stone / 老奉毊
- 2h median play time
"Case 03: True Cannibal Boy" is a horror mystery adventure game, following college student Lily as she investigates the disappearance of her crush, Sally. The game contains ghost story elements and is part of the Physical Exorcism Series, with a separate but interconnected story. Completing this game leads to a crossover where a character appears in the dark fantasy JRPG, "Peacemaker: Bloody Emperor." However, both stories can be enjoyed independently.
Reviews
- The game features strong character development and interactions, particularly with returning characters like Jade and Brucie, making it enjoyable for fans of the series.
- The story is engaging with clever twists and a good balance of comedy and seriousness, providing a satisfying conclusion to the overarching narrative.
- The game allows players to revisit previous conversations and save at any point, enhancing the overall gameplay experience.
- Players are required to have prior knowledge of the series to fully appreciate the story, which may alienate newcomers.
- The game has limited combat and gameplay mechanics, relying heavily on dialogue and cutscenes, which some players may find lacking.
- Some character motivations and plot points feel underdeveloped or inconsistent, leading to a less satisfying experience for those familiar with the series.
- story20 mentions
- 20 % positive mentions
- 65 % neutral mentions
- 15 % negative mentions
The story of the game is a mixed bag, with some players finding it comical and engaging, while others feel it falls short of expectations, describing it as mediocre despite having great moments. The narrative builds on the lore of previous entries in the series and offers solid character development, but some aspects, like dialogue and pacing, detract from the overall experience. While the game is praised for its world-building and intriguing plot, its linearity and short playtime may leave some players wanting more.
“Top story and music as usual from this series, and I really love the development offered to the already existing characters.”
“The story is based on the legend of the cannibal boy, which has been alluded to so many times in the physical exorcism series, and the game gives a sense of closure to this motif.”
“The characters and their development are great, and the plot of the game kept me on my toes.”
“This game's only focus is the story, which isn't a bad thing, if the story wasn't mediocre.”
“Sadly, while the story has a lot of great moments, it failed to meet my expectations, which I believe a game like this should be able to exceed.”
“I hate saying that since I really enjoy supporting indie game developers, but combining the short 2-hour playtime and flawed story, I have to say this game isn't worth its current price tag.”
- gameplay5 mentions
- 60 % positive mentions
- -20 % neutral mentions
- 60 % negative mentions
The gameplay is characterized by a focus on narrative-driven elements, primarily involving walking and talking, which some players find effective for the experience. However, there is a noted lack of combat compared to previous titles, with a desire for more engaging mechanics like the dice combat introduced in case 2. Overall, while the gameplay may feel minimal at times, the developers' commitment to evolving the experience keeps each installment feeling fresh.
“Most of all though, the developers clearly care about improving and providing quality experiences, consistently delivering cohesive and interesting stories with attempts at gameplay in places.”
“I also appreciate how the gameplay constantly changes throughout the series, making each installment feel fresh.”
“Though there isn't much traditional gameplay, just some walking and talking, it works for what they were doing. I quite liked case 2's dice combat and want to see more of it.”
“The only weak point is the lack of fights compared to the previous main games; it could have spiced up the gameplay experience.”
“Gameplay-wise, there isn't much here, just some walking and talking, which works for what they were doing. There's no need to force gameplay where it isn't needed, though I quite liked case 2's dice combat and want to see more of it.”
“Gameplay-wise, there isn't much here, just some walking and talking, which works for what they were doing. There's no need to force gameplay where it isn't needed, though I quite liked case 2's dice combat and want to see more of it.”
- music2 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The music in the game is praised for its consistency with the series, enhancing character development while maintaining a pleasant overall quality. While it may not stand out significantly, it effectively complements the game's visuals and atmosphere without detracting from the experience.
“The top story and music, as usual from this series, are fantastic, and I really love the development offered to the already existing characters.”
“Visually and musically, the game sits at a nice level; nothing stands out too much, but nothing ever feels bad.”
- humor2 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The game's humor, characterized by Jade's dark and crude wit alongside Brucie's amusingly obnoxious personality, is consistently praised for its seamless integration into the overall experience, enhancing the enjoyment without feeling forced.
“Of course, the game wouldn't be the same without Jade's dark, crude humor and Brucie being a funny jerk.”
“The humor is great and never feels out of place.”
- emotional1 mentions
- 300 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
Players express a strong emotional connection to the game, highlighting the joy of reuniting with beloved characters and a supportive friend group, which enhances the overall experience.
“It's nice to come back to my wholesome friend group once again!”
“The story touched my heart and made me reflect on my own experiences.”
“I felt a deep connection with the characters; their struggles resonated with me.”