Case 03: True Cannibal Boy
- September 18, 2023
- Sounding Stone / 老奉毊
- 2h median play time
Get on Steam"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, particularly for Jade, and maintains the series' signature humor.
- The story includes clever foreshadowing and a satisfying conclusion with multiple endings, enhancing the mystery-solving experience.
- The game successfully ties together elements from previous installments, providing a sense of closure and continuity within the series.
- The game requires prior knowledge of the series to fully appreciate the story, which may alienate new players.
- Some dialogue options spoil the endings, detracting from immersion and the overall experience.
- The lack of combat and gameplay variety compared to previous entries may disappoint fans looking for a more dynamic experience.
- story19 mentions
- 16 % positive mentions
- 68 % neutral mentions
- 16 % 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 quality and pacing, detract from the overall experience. Overall, it is recommended for fans of the series who appreciate its storytelling, though the linearity and brevity may not appeal to everyone.
“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, with minimal combat and a significant amount of walking and talking, which some players find effective for the experience. While there is a desire for more combat, particularly after enjoying the dice combat in case 2, the series is praised for its evolving gameplay mechanics that keep each installment feeling fresh. Overall, the developers are recognized for their commitment to quality storytelling, despite some inconsistencies in earlier titles.
“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, the walking and talking works for what they were doing, and 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 consistent with the series' established style, featuring enjoyable compositions that complement character development. While it may not be particularly standout, it maintains a pleasant quality that enhances the overall experience without detracting from it.
“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.”
