Danganronpa Another Episode: Ultra Despair Girls
- September 1, 2015
Danganronpa did it again. Another Episode was heartpounding, mind blowing, and for the millionth time, filled with despair. So do yourself a favour, fill yourself with hope, and absolutely play this must have entry in the Danganronpa franchise.
After the horrors have ended at Hope's Peak Academy, society is on the verge of collapse and violent anarchy has engulfed the whole world in despair! Danganronpa Another Episode: Ultra Despair Girls is the pre-sequel to the highly popular mystery adventure game Danganronpa 2: Goodbye Despair. Unlike the first two games, players will take on the role of two heroines, Komaru Naegi and Toko Fukawa, a…
Reviews
- The game retains the beloved charm and brilliant writing of the Danganronpa series, offering a unique and engaging story with new characters.
- Gameplay is surprisingly fun and adds depth to the Danganronpa plot, making it a worthwhile experience for fans.
- The graphics are an upgrade from previous titles, and the game features excellent voice acting and character development.
- The gameplay mechanics are vastly different from the previous Danganronpa titles, which may disappoint some fans.
- There are issues with pacing, repetitive gameplay, and camera control that can detract from the overall experience.
- The game may not appeal to newcomers due to its reliance on prior knowledge of the series and its convoluted plot.
- story21 mentions
- 33 % positive mentions
- 52 % neutral mentions
- 14 % negative mentions
The story of "Danganronpa: Ultra Despair Girls" is praised for its depth and dark themes, offering significant plot developments and character growth that enrich the overall narrative of the series. While some players find the gameplay mechanics somewhat repetitive, the engaging storytelling and callbacks to previous entries keep them invested, making it a worthwhile addition to the Danganronpa universe. Overall, the game successfully blends various genres while maintaining a compelling and chilling narrative that resonates with fans.
“Danganronpa: Ultra Despair Girls offers an exciting and decidedly chilling story for fans who have followed the series since its inception, with callbacks to the original game and important revelations those in touch with the games won’t want to miss.”
“A great game with a very dark story.”
“The spin-off shows that there is substance for this series outside the walls of Hope's Peak while maintaining enough ties to its core story to feel essential.”
“Danganronpa: Another Episode - Ultra Despair Girls is still a profound story with improved mechanics on PS4, but its standing in the series’ narrative has shifted for the worse since it originally launched.”
“It is the plot that carries Ultra Despair Girls along, but had it not been for the entries before it, this may not have been received as favorably.”
“[Reliance on puzzles can make sections feel repetitive, Genocide Jack is easily exploitable, some plot points needlessly undermine the setting.]”
- gameplay16 mentions
- 44 % positive mentions
- 38 % neutral mentions
- 19 % negative mentions
The gameplay in this installment of the Danganronpa series diverges significantly from its predecessors, introducing a third-person shooter format that some players find refreshing, while others consider it barebones and repetitive. Despite its flaws, including camera issues and clunky mechanics, the game is praised for its engaging story, character development, and clever puzzle design, which help maintain the series' signature appeal. Overall, while the gameplay may not meet the high standards set by earlier titles, it still offers a unique experience that resonates with fans.
“I wasn't sure how well I would enjoy this game with very different gameplay from the other Danganronpa games, but I actually enjoyed it a lot.”
“El gameplay es muy diferente a los Danganronpa normales, lo que es refrescante e interesante. Es un third-person shooter, donde controlas a la hermana del protagonista de la franquicia.”
“[Danganronpa’s narrative is still stellar, fun and experimental shooting mechanics, challenging and clever puzzle design, well-realized and sympathetic characters, the finale.]”
“With camera issues and repetitive gameplay, you’d be better served going back to basics.”
“Danganronpa Another Episode: Ultra Despair Girls is still a profound story with improved mechanics on PS4, but its standing in the series’ narrative has shifted for the worse since it originally launched.”
“The gameplay is very different from the normal Danganronpa games, which is refreshing and interesting; it's a third-person shooter where you control the sister of the protagonist from the franchise.”
- graphics4 mentions
- 75 % positive mentions
- 25 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The graphics in the latest Danganronpa installment represent a significant upgrade from the previous visual novel style, featuring unique art and vibrant 3D designs that enhance the storytelling experience. Players appreciate the brilliant artwork and the way it brings memorable characters and narratives to life, while also providing engaging puzzle gameplay and fan service.
“The graphics are an upgrade from the visual novel-like style that the previous Danganronpa games had.”
“Brilliant artwork brought to life in 3D.”
“Unique art style.”
- emotional2 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
Players find these games to be emotionally engaging, highlighting their innovative and smart design that fosters a deep connection with the charming and affectionate characters. The emotional investment in these characters enhances the overall gaming experience.
“These games are so innovative, smart, and emotionally engaging, allowing you to connect deeply with the loving and cute characters.”
- character development2 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
Reviewers praise the game for its fantastic storytelling and great character development, highlighting how the narrative depth enhances the overall experience. The combination of clever puzzles and a striking visual style further enriches the character arcs, making them feel more immersive and impactful.
“Fantastic story, great character development, and a variety of gameplay.”
“Incredible storytelling and character development, with clever puzzles that make you use your abilities to their fullest. The striking, disturbing visual style and soundtrack add perfectly to the atmosphere.”
- optimization1 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The optimization of voice acting in the game is highly praised, with both new and returning actors delivering strong performances that maintain a high standard of quality.
- atmosphere1 mentions
- 300 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The atmosphere of the game is enhanced by incredible storytelling and character development, complemented by clever puzzles that challenge players' abilities. Additionally, the striking and disturbing visual style, along with a fitting soundtrack, significantly contribute to the immersive experience.
“The incredible storytelling and character development, combined with clever puzzles that make you use your abilities to their fullest, create a striking and disturbing visual style and soundtrack that perfectly enhance the atmosphere.”
“The atmosphere is hauntingly beautiful, drawing you into a world that feels both immersive and unsettling.”
“Every element of the game, from the visuals to the sound design, contributes to an atmosphere that is rich and engaging, making you feel like you're part of a living, breathing world.”
- music1 mentions
- 300 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The music in the game is praised for its ability to enhance the atmosphere, complementing the striking and disturbing visual style while contributing to the overall storytelling and character development. It effectively immerses players in the experience, making it a key element of the game's emotional impact.
“The striking and disturbing visual style, along with the soundtrack, adds perfectly to the atmosphere.”
“Incredible storytelling and character development enhance the overall experience.”
“Clever puzzles make you use your abilities to their fullest.”
Critic Reviews
Danganronpa Another Episode: Ultra Despair Girls Review
Danganronpa Another Episode: Ultra Despair Girls admirably steps out of the series' comfort zone in order to spread an entirely new kind of despair, but the result is a game that isn't quite as cohesive as its forebears. A massive amount of dialogue often saps the pace of an otherwise eerily tense third-person adventure, but other than that, this is a welcome addition to the franchise that's well worth experiencing if you're a fan of the maniacal Monokuma and all that he stands for.
70%Danganronpa Another Episode: Ultra Despair Girls Review
Danganronpa: Ultra Despair Girls offers an exciting and decidedly chilling story for fans who have followed the series since its inception, with callbacks to the original game and important revelations those in touch with the games won’t want to miss. Unfortunately for newcomers or those who aren’t as in tune with Danganronpa, there’s not much here to convert anyone. With camera issues and repetitive gameplay, you’d be better served going back to basics. If you’re interested in Toko’s exploits or the Naegi siblings it’s best to go back and start with Danganronpa 1.2 Reload or play through the games in their release order with their original iterations. This one’s for fans only.
60%Danganronpa Another Episode: Ultra Despair Girls Review
Danganronpa Another Episode Ultra Despair Girls is still a profound story with improved mechanics on PS4, but its standing in the series’ narrative has shifted for the worst since it originally launched.
80%