Trials of Harmony ~ Experimental Visual Novel
- September 30, 2019
- SilverTabbyCat - Visual Novel Games
Get on Steam"Trials of Harmony" is an experimental visual novel that traps you in a death game, accessible only through a mobile messaging app. You must guide a group of survivors through a series of twisted trials, making decisions that determine who lives or dies. The game features logic riddles, word-puzzles, and a points-based system, with an estimated 10 hours of nail-biting gameplay.
Reviews
- The game features a unique phone interface that enhances immersion and adds a refreshing twist to the visual novel genre.
- The writing is generally well-crafted, with natural dialogue and interesting character development that keeps players engaged.
- The soundtrack and sound design are well-executed, effectively complementing the game's atmosphere and enhancing the overall experience.
- The pacing is hindered by slow text progression and an awkward auto-typing feature, making it tedious to advance through conversations.
- Many puzzles are overly simplistic and lack originality, with some players feeling that they can be found in other free resources.
- The story suffers from a lack of compelling narrative until later chapters, and some character motivations and choices feel underdeveloped or inconsequential.
- story17 mentions
- 29 % positive mentions
- 53 % neutral mentions
- 18 % negative mentions
The story has received mixed reviews, with some players finding it tedious and uninteresting until the later chapters, while others appreciate its suspenseful elements and character development. Although the narrative is engaging in the final act, many feel that the initial chapters are a slog, and the overall premise is somewhat derivative of other works in the genre. Players have noted technical issues that detract from the experience, but those willing to invest time may find a satisfying story with enjoyable characters.
“It has a wonderful story that keeps suspense rolling, as well as characters that are fun and enjoyable to the umpteenth degree.”
“Although the premise is a touch derivative (primarily of the zero escape games, with a hint of danganronpa), and although there is the occasional typo, awkward word choice, or monologue that would be thumb-cramping for someone to type on their phone in real life, overall this phone-chat visual novel tells a satisfying story.”
“The characters are well defined and the story keeps you entertained until the end.”
“The story lacks even the slightest bit of entertainment value until the final act.”
“It's so extraordinarily tedious to play through, despite the intrigue I have about the story.”
“This game would be better written as a text-based story than a phone-mystery novel because the main chatroom feels really dead, and everyone just seems to wait on one person to send a message.”
- music11 mentions
- 27 % positive mentions
- 45 % neutral mentions
- 27 % negative mentions
The music in the game is highly praised for its ability to enhance the atmosphere, seamlessly transitioning from relaxed and upbeat tracks during character interactions to tense and agitated themes during critical moments. While some players find the music can be monotonous and even sleepy at times, the overall sound design and melodies are considered fitting and effective within the context of the game. The soundtrack's industrial electronic influences and clever integration with the smartphone interface further contribute to a compelling audio experience.
“The soundtrack and sound design is where the game shines.”
“The soundtrack seems to always fit the atmosphere perfectly — whether it's relaxed, upbeat music when the characters are chatting at the start of a new day, or tense, agitated music when dealing with the psychotically-minded game master in charge of the death games, the audio experience never feels out of step.”
“Atmospheric music choices, clever use of the phone interface and chat concept, nice and judicious use of effects.”
“The idea of a death game all set within the confines of a smartphone interface is a neat idea, but that means other aspects, such as the music, atmosphere, and text, have to make up for the lack of visual elements typically presented in a visual novel.”
“It doesn't help that the music makes me sleepy, especially since the game takes forever to complete.”
“I hate to sound like a broken record, but it is reminiscent of the grungy industrial electronic music of 999.”
- gameplay4 mentions
- 25 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 75 % negative mentions
Gameplay is characterized by a straightforward "fill in the blanks" mechanic that involves spelling or selecting answers, which allows for smooth progression. While some users find the chat and mini-game mechanics awkward and note issues with unskippable credits, these elements do not significantly detract from the overall experience.
“The plus side being that there's minimal friction between mechanics and forward progression.”
“Gameplay-wise, it's not very complex.”
“It’s a 'fill in the blanks' type of mechanic, whereby you either spell out what needs to be done out of a preset combination of letters or pick a certain answer.”
“My only complaints are achievements behind unskippable credits and that the chat and mini-game mechanics are a bit awkward at times, but nothing that ruins the game.”
- atmosphere4 mentions
- 50 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 50 % negative mentions
The atmosphere of the game is effectively crafted through a well-suited soundtrack that enhances both relaxed and tense moments, complementing the unique smartphone interface. The clever use of audio and visual elements creates an engaging experience reminiscent of the Zero Escape series, appealing to fans of atmospheric storytelling in visual novels.
“The soundtrack seems to always fit the atmosphere perfectly — whether it's relaxed, upbeat music when the characters are chatting amongst themselves at the start of a new day, or tense, agitated music when dealing with the psychotically-minded game master in charge of the death games, the audio experience never feels out of step.”
“Atmospheric music choices, clever use of the phone interface and chat concept, nice and judicious use of effects.”
“The idea of a death game all set within the confines of a smartphone interface is a neat concept, but that means other aspects, such as the music, atmosphere, and text, have to compensate for the limited visual elements typically presented in a visual novel.”
“The atmosphere reminds me a little of the Zero Escape games, so if you are a fan of any of the games I mentioned, you might enjoy Trials of Harmony as well.”
- graphics4 mentions
- 25 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 75 % negative mentions
The graphics of the game are noted for their unique aesthetic, particularly appealing to fans of mobile gaming and visual novels. While it may not offer the detailed environments and character expressions found in other titles like 999 or VLR, it presents a visually engaging experience that aligns well with its escape room theme. However, those averse to anime aesthetics may find it less appealing.
“If you are interested in the concept of an escape room themed visual novel, but if the anime aesthetic and its associated tropes put you off, this is a good one of those that may be more to your liking.”
“I've played my share of death/survival games, and the only thing that makes this stand out is the aesthetic and the fact that it's on a phone.”
“So if you're all about exploring branching paths in visual novels, do set your expectations accordingly.”
“In a game like 999 or VLR, you have graphics that visualize the environment, and character portraits have different expressions and so forth.”
- grinding1 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 300 % negative mentions
Players find the grinding aspect of the game to be excessively tedious, which detracts from their overall enjoyment, even though they remain intrigued by the story.
“It's so extraordinarily tedious to play through, despite the intrigue I have about the story.”
“The grinding feels endless and takes away from the enjoyment of the game.”
“I find myself doing the same repetitive tasks over and over, which makes the game feel like a chore.”
