Lurkers

About

Experience the investigation surrounding the Jack the Ripper crimes putting yourself on the shoes of one of the protagonists in this thrilling mystery Visual Novel!

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Play Modes

Single-Player

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94%

Audience ScoreBased on 16 reviews

story6 positive mentions

graphics3 negative mentions

The game offers a well-written and engaging story that immerses players in the historical context of Victorian London, particularly the Jack the Ripper case.
The characters are distinct and memorable, with a good balance of personality traits that contribute to the overall narrative.
The atmospheric music and visuals effectively enhance the eerie setting, creating a compelling backdrop for the mystery and romance.

The game is quite short, leading to a rushed feeling in both the mystery resolution and character development, which may leave players wanting more.
There are numerous typos and grammatical errors throughout the game, detracting from the overall experience.
The romance elements feel forced and underdeveloped, with limited interaction that may disappoint players expecting a deeper exploration of relationships.

story
42 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
14%
79%
7%
The story of *Lurkers* is a fictionalized account of the Jack the Ripper investigation, blending real historical events with a narrative that includes multiple perspectives and light romance elements. While the writing is praised for its consistency and character development, some reviewers noted that the integration of romance felt out of place in a primarily investigative plot, leading to a somewhat confusing narrative flow. Overall, the game captures the atmosphere of its historical setting, though it may not deliver the mystery and excitement some players expect.
- “The story is sectioned into different outcomes based on the choices you make.”
- “We are offered a story displaying different points of view, allowing us to play as Eddy, then proceed with William’s steps, and eventually immerse ourselves into Chris’s perspective.”
- “The writing is good and consistent, so the story, the personality of the characters, and the romance scenes left an overall good impression on me.”
- “However, there will also be some slightly playful and curiosity-inducing background music fitting the detective setting, as well as slight comic moments offered during dialogues, and the story pacing won’t result in anything plain or dull.”
- “While Lurkers started off with a very good introduction to the characters, there are two major flaws in the flow of the story because the creators did not manage to find the right length.”
- “But, honestly, I do not really see why there is a need to include romance in a game where 90% of the story is about catching a murderer. It makes the plot a little confusing to me because I feel like there is not a clear line about what the game wants to tell me.”
graphics
9 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
22%
45%
33%
The graphics in the game have received mixed reviews, with some players finding them lacking compared to other titles, while others appreciate the era-appropriate artwork and realistic depictions of Victorian London. Although the visual style may not appeal to everyone, the game's illustrations and attention to detail in portraying the setting are acknowledged as strengths. Overall, the graphics serve the narrative well, despite some criticism regarding the art style and presentation.
- “And- …ok, 'tis typically the part where I embellish a game’s visuals, but I find that challenging to accomplish because of the various realistic drawings and maps fashioned after (if not literally) actual ones which existed and are stored in an archive somewhere.”
- “Lurkers is surely an entertaining mystery thriller with yaoi elements, with an impressive use of era-fitting artwork and basing characters on actual historical figures.”
- “The graphics are not that pretty compared to other games (even from retail games), but it does not need it. I think this is a short visual novel where you can experience a good piece of Victorian age London, so I think this is a 6 out of 10.”
- “And... ok, 'tis typically the part where I embellish a game’s visuals, but I find that challenging to accomplish because of the various realistic drawings and maps fashioned after (if not literally) actual ones which existed and are stored in an archive somewhere.”
- “While the CG art style was not up to my taste, I still appreciate the coloring and the work put into portraying the in-game scenes.”
atmosphere
7 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
29%
28%
43%
The atmosphere of the game is heavily characterized by a thick, foggy setting that evokes the moral complexities of 19th century London, enhanced by an evocative soundtrack reminiscent of Clint Mansell's work. While the visual presentation may be simple, the atmospheric elements, including additional animations and music, effectively immerse players in the historical context and emotional weight of the narrative. Overall, the game excels in capturing a chilling and immersive atmosphere, despite a straightforward storyline.
- “The backgrounds with moving dark misty fog were so atmospheric.”
- “The music is truly evocative and effective in bringing the atmosphere to life.”
- “The thick foggy atmosphere, ever present in every exterior shot, is not only a literal depiction of conditions in 19th century London, but also a foreshadowing of the unseen moral panic to come.”
- “So there's not much of a mystery and excitement in a story that focuses on investigation, but the visual novel makes up for it by capturing the atmosphere and spirit of the times.”
- “Whereas the whole presentation is rather plain and simple (there's no gallery for example), the music is truly evocative and effective in bringing the atmosphere to life.”
music
5 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
40%
60%
The music in the game is generally described as evocative and effective, enhancing the atmosphere significantly, particularly in capturing the eerie essence of Whitechapel. While some reviews note that the overall presentation is plain, the atmospheric soundtrack stands out as one of the game's greatest strengths, effectively complementing the narrative and gameplay.
- “Whereas the whole presentation is rather plain and simple (there's no gallery for example), the music is truly evocative and effective in bringing the atmosphere to life.”
- “The game's greatest strengths are its atmospheric soundtrack, and Jack the Ripper, of course.”
- “Decent story, likable characters, okay music.”
- “The music does a fine job in showcasing the eeriness of Whitechapel, to the curiosity when clues are being discussed at the frying pan.”
- “A variety of white, classical, and thriller music really puts you in the shoes, not on the socks.”
emotional
2 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
100%
The emotional aspect of the game is highlighted by its touching romantic scenes, which stand out against a bleak setting, adding depth and warmth to the overall experience.
- “In fact, the brief romantic scenes in this title are quite touching, honestly.”
- “The setting is pretty bleak, and that makes the romantic bits all the more wholesome.”
gameplay
1 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
100%
The gameplay effectively aligns with the novel's intentions, enhancing the overall experience for players.
- “I think this kind of gameplay really suits the intention of this novel.”

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