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 look at the origins of the Higurashi series, providing a nostalgic experience for fans.
- Outbreak and its sequel Kamikashimashi introduce interesting new elements and maintain the unsettling atmosphere characteristic of the series.
- The extra content, including the music room and staff party, showcases the passion and dedication of the development team, making it a worthwhile addition for die-hard fans.
- Many of the side stories, particularly Mehagashi, are criticized for excessive fan service and uncomfortable themes, detracting from the overall experience.
- Outbreak is seen as a rushed and less engaging narrative compared to the original arcs, failing to capture the same level of investment.
- The game contains distracting typos and inconsistencies in translation, which can detract from the immersion and enjoyment of the stories.
- story39 mentions
- 18 % positive mentions
- 74 % neutral mentions
- 8 % negative mentions
The story aspect of the game has received mixed reviews, with many users finding the extra stories to be lackluster and not on par with the main arcs, often feeling rushed or disjointed. While some appreciate the new elements introduced in segments like "Outbreak" and "Kamikashimashi," others criticize them for being non-essential and failing to capture the original's quality. Overall, the additional narratives seem to cater primarily to die-hard fans rather than offering a compelling experience for newcomers.
“Hinamizawa Bus Stop - really interesting origin of the Higurashi story.”
“Outbreak is a fun and interesting extra layer added to the story, although it feels rushed and more plain than the usual fragments.”
“The story mostly focuses on Mion and Rika, with some other notable characters that aren't present in the other Higurashi stories.”
“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.”
“As for the swimsuit chapter, it's silly and harmless and somehow less of a lolicon thing than the zombie story was.”
- music9 mentions
- 33 % positive mentions
- 33 % neutral mentions
- 33 % 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. While some fans noted the presence of Umineko sound effects, the overall effort and innovation in the music and sound design are commendable.
“The music player alone is so good.”
“As for the music, the tracks are wonderful to listen to.”
“I love how you get access to the music room, which, as its name implies, is a compilation of Higurashi's soundtrack after finishing Outbreak, Kamikashimashi, and Hinamizawa Bus Stop.”
“A good short addition to the Higurashi series. 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.”
- emotional5 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The emotional aspect of the game is highlighted by a nostalgic and touching final party that resonates with fans, particularly through heartfelt dialogue from the creator. However, some players find the inclusion of uncomfortable fanservice and sensitive topics detracts from the overall emotional experience, creating a mixed response to the game's emotional journey.
“The final end party was wholesome and made me oddly nostalgic for the first few chapters.”
“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+.”
- humor2 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, particularly in the sequel, are appreciated for their ability to entertain despite any shortcomings in the plot. Ryukishi's storytelling skillfully weaves humor into the darker themes, making the experience enjoyable.
“Ryukishi does a wonderful job of narrating these stories, creating this atmosphere of horror and tragedy but adding in appropriate amounts of humor.”
“Despite being a visual novel, somehow they make the outbreak chapter even worse than the movie/OVA. The sequel is fine even though the ending is kind of stupid, but it's funny, so who cares.”
- gameplay2 mentions
- 150 % positive mentions
- -150 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
The gameplay is characterized by a linear structure, with no choices or branching paths for players to explore, which may limit the sense of agency in the experience.
“The gameplay is engaging and keeps you invested in the story.”
“The mechanics are smooth and intuitive, making it easy to immerse yourself in the experience.”
“The challenges presented in the gameplay are well-balanced, providing a satisfying level of difficulty.”
“As for the gameplay, all of the stories presented are linear, so no choices show up.”
“Now that I've gone over the story and gameplay, I'll move onto my thoughts.”
- atmosphere1 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The atmosphere in Ryukishi's narratives is skillfully crafted, blending elements of horror and tragedy with well-timed humor, resulting in a unique and engaging experience for players.
“Ryukishi does a wonderful job of narrating these stories, creating an atmosphere of horror and tragedy while adding in appropriate amounts of humor.”
