Higurashi When They Cry Hou+
- November 9, 2023
- 07th Expansion
Get on SteamIn Higurashi When They Cry $$COLLABORATE$$, players explore four new chapters in the Hinamizawa tragedy. The virus outbreak in "Higurashi When They Cry Outbreak" threatens the town, while "Hinamizawa Bus Stop" offers a glimpse into the series' origin. The fragment "Higurashi When They Cry Mehagashi Chapter" is an additional Hou+ scenario, leading to a tragic outcome. This final installment promises to conclude the storylines and uncover new secrets in the world of Higurashi.
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Reviews
- Hinamizawa Bus Stop is a fascinating exploration of the origins of the Higurashi story, providing a nostalgic experience for fans.
- Outbreak and its sequel Kamikashimashi introduce new elements and characters, making for an engaging read despite some pacing issues.
- The After Party offers a touching reflection on Ryukishi's journey and the impact of the series, adding depth to the overall experience.
- Many of the side stories, particularly Mehagashi, are criticized for excessive fan service and uncomfortable themes, detracting from the overall narrative quality.
- Outbreak is seen as a rushed and less compelling addition compared to the original arcs, failing to capture the same level of investment and intrigue.
- The game suffers from translation issues and typos, which can distract from the reading experience and diminish the overall quality.
- story78 mentions
- 18 % positive mentions
- 78 % neutral mentions
- 4 % negative mentions
The story aspect of the game is a mixed bag, with some segments like "Hinamizawa Bus Stop" providing intriguing insights into the origins of the Higurashi narrative, while others, such as "Outbreak," are criticized for feeling rushed and lacking the depth of earlier entries. Many reviewers note that while these side stories may appeal to die-hard fans, they often fail to meet the quality of the main series, with some chapters feeling unnecessary or overly convoluted. Overall, the collection offers a blend of familiar themes and new elements, but its value is primarily for those already invested in the Higurashi universe.
“The next major story chunk is 'Hinamizawa Bus Stop', a stage play translated into the visual novel format that apparently is the original work that branched out into everything.”
“This story follows yet another alternate universe, in which it begins with an entire village under intense quarantine and spirals into a disease-ridden apocalypse scenario, bringing in lore we're already familiar with in regards to a certain syndrome and how it spreads, and mixing it with new information regarding Hanyuu's possible origins and beings like her.”
“Outbreak and its second half Kamikashimashi were a surprisingly fun read with surprising new elements, and Hinamizawa Bus Stop was very interesting to see what the original prototype of the story looks like.”
“If you're wondering whether this is worth reading after the main Higurashi story, it's not and you shouldn't.”
“It is maybe telling that most of the positive reviews have nothing to do with this chapter of side stories in particular and is instead about people jokingly giving this game a positive review because it is more Higurashi, that they loved revisiting it, or whatever, but the outbreak storyline just contains so much wrong in it I find it baffling how someone who is even nostalgic could think it meets with Higurashi's previous level of quality.”
“Some of the character names are familiar, but the story itself is considered non-canon for a reason.”
- music18 mentions
- 22 % positive mentions
- 61 % neutral mentions
- 17 % negative mentions
The music in the game is highly praised for its quality and variety, featuring a mix of familiar tracks and new compositions that enhance the overall experience. Players appreciate the inclusion of a music room that allows them to access a compilation of the Higurashi soundtrack after completing certain segments. However, some users noted that the incorporation of Umineko sound effects detracts from the pure Higurashi experience.
“Third of all, they really put a lot of effort and even innovated in most areas, like the music, sound effects, background images, and even some sprites.”
“As for the music, the tracks are wonderful to listen to.”
“My only problem is all the Umineko sound effects/music since that isn't pure Higurashi.”
“The usual updated sprites provided by Mangagamer are present, and there's a varied soundtrack, with mostly familiar tracks but a few new ones.”
“Once the story fragments are completed, then extras like the music room and staff party are unlocked.”
- emotional10 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The emotional aspect of the game is characterized by a mix of nostalgia and touching moments, particularly highlighted in the expanded staff room dialogue, which serves as a tribute to fans. However, some users express discomfort with the inclusion of inappropriate fanservice that trivializes serious subjects, creating a conflicting emotional experience. Overall, players describe the journey as an emotional rollercoaster, with both wholesome and unsettling elements.
“A very touching and nostalgic text, as well as a tribute to fans.”
“The expanded staff room/dialogue from Ryukishi is undoubtedly the most touching content in Hou+.”
“The final end party was wholesome and made me oddly nostalgic for the first few chapters.”
- humor4 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The humor in the game is noted for its effective balance with horror and tragedy, enhancing the overall narrative experience. While some chapters may falter in execution, the comedic elements often redeem them, making even less favorable endings enjoyable. Ryukishi's storytelling skillfully integrates humor, contributing to the game's unique atmosphere.
“Ryukishi does a wonderful job of narrating these stories, creating this atmosphere of horror and tragedy but adding in appropriate amounts of humor.”
- gameplay4 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 75 % neutral mentions
- 25 % negative mentions
The gameplay is characterized by a linear structure, with no choices or branching paths available to players, leading to a more guided experience throughout the stories.
“As for the gameplay, all of the stories presented are linear, so no choices show up.”
- atmosphere2 mentions
- 50 % positive mentions
- 50 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The atmosphere in Ryukishi's narratives is masterfully crafted, blending elements of horror and tragedy with well-timed humor, which enhances the overall storytelling experience.
“Ryukishi does a wonderful job of narrating these stories, creating an atmosphere of horror and tragedy while adding in appropriate amounts of humor.”
