Spirit Hunter: NG

Spirit Hunter: NG is a fascinating, dark and brutal game which is hugely gripping thanks to its strong plot, spooks and protagonists. Sadly, the Switch version of the game is scuppered by crippling technical problems which make it borderline unplayable at times. The core game is strong enough that it is still worth a look if you can endure these issues, but you should play this on something else if you can – or hope that the developers can fix the issues in a future update.

Spirit Hunter: NG is in fact a major upgrade over its predecessor. However, it still doesn't reach excellence in any of the aspects that the game does best, except for the art direction. Regardless, the series' potential is still clear, delivering above-average titles that have only improved so far. NG isn't an essential game for fans of the genre, but it offers a solid experience that will surely please most.

Spirit Hunter: NG is a horror-themed visual novel and one which gets all its main points right. Played pretty much like an interactive book, this game performs equally well when played on a television screen and on the Nintendo Switch itself, a real demonstration that horror has no format limits. With its well written plot, spine-chilling ambiance and audiovisual environment that fits the game's idea just right, Spirit Hunter: NG is just what any fan of horror in the Nintendo Switch could hope for.

Let’s get this out of the way: Spirit Hunter NG is not for everyone. In fact, it probably only fills a small niche in the horror video game market.

If you enjoy visual novels and are looking for a horror experience that isn't just brainless jump scares, this is something you need to play.

The beautifully drawn visuals and soundtrack that always seems to fit what is going on further makes this a standout visual novel. If you enjoy this genre this is one you shouldn’t miss.

Ultimately, I spent about 15 hours playing through Spirit Hunter: NG. Though I got the normal ending, I really enjoyed my time with this sequel. It does justice to the first game while still differentiating itself enough to keep things fresh. While it may sound like a short game for $49.99, only having five main chapters, I found myself happily immersed in the experience. I’m glad this one got localized in North America, and feel fans of horror have a lot to enjoy here. If you are hankering for a spooky mystery this October, you can’t go wrong with Spirit Hunter: NG.

Spirit Hunter: NG, taking one step forward and one step back, ends up delivering a game just as fun and interesting as its predecessor.

"Not so spooky horror story after all."

If you have played Death Mark, then NG is a worthy successor that surpasses the original in character development, progression of narrative, haunting visuals, and an equally atmospheric soundtrack. Even if you are someone that has just discovered the Spirit Hunter series of visual novels, NG's plot stands alone and will consume you like a vengeful Onryō!