Jisei: The First Case HD

With the truth not necessarily being found on the first play-through, Jisei: The First Case HD definitely merits a second one to learn about more of the secrets in detail, which do not appear to be revealed all in one route. This feels like it should be a series, so hopefully Ratalaika Games will make more with this strange protagonist, who can sense things other humans can't. From the nature of his character, this won't be the only murder the protagonist comes across and is assumed to be linked to it. There's certainly no hint as to where his powers come from, or where they will lead him either.

Jisei: The First Case HD is not a new game. It’s a port to Xbox One (also to PS4 and Nintendo Switch, although I don’t mention those versions in this review) by Ratalaika Games S.L. of the first game in the Jisei series, created by SakeVisual and released in 2010. Originally the game was available on a variety of operating systems for PC. I didn’t play the first release; therefore, I had no preconception of how the game should look or play. However, did it feel like I was playing an old has-been that should have been left buried, or has the port to a console given the title a new lease of life?

Jisei: The First Case HD is a classic murder mystery with amazing art and voice acting. The story is intriguing and engaging, yet not too complex. If you enjoy visual novels and murder mysteries, this game is a must.

Being an excellent gateway to the genre of visual novels, Jisei: The First Case HD remasters a title from the past decade in a short but very interesting experience. This door becomes even more inviting with Brazilian Portuguese subtitles and excellent dubbing. You will run into some small problems and wish you had found more alternatives in the story, but you will still be satisfied.

If you have never played a visual novel type game, Jisei: The First Case HD is an excellent start, as there are not a ton of options to confuse someone new to the genre and it is has a very interesting story line. It is also a very short game, as I spent under three hours in the game from start to finish and this included me taking detailed notes about the game. Someone simply focusing on the game could probably complete the game in two hours or less. Jinsei: The First Case HD was my first visual novel game and it definitely has me more interested in the genre and trying out some other games. I will be continue the series as the games come out!

As has been the case with several other recent mildly-interactive visual novel outings on the Switch, Jisei will probably appeal to a thin audience that is pulled in by the overall story, but most people will want to keep moving...