Summary
- Release Year: 2011
- Genres: Adventure, Point-and-click, Visual Novel
- Platforms: iOS, PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation Portable
- Developers: 5pb., Team GrisGris
- Publishers: 5pb., XSEED Games
Corpse Party: Book of Shadows: A Haunting Tale of Terror and Redemption
Introduction
Corpse Party: Book of Shadows is a survival horror adventure game and the sequel to the critically acclaimed Corpse Party: BloodCovered: …Repeated Fear. Released in 2011, Book of Shadows adds new twists and backgrounds for the characters who were barely touched upon in the original game, mostly playing as a prequel.
Gameplay
Like its predecessor, Corpse Party: Book of Shadows is a 2D side-scrolling horror game with a focus on exploration, puzzle-solving, and character interaction. Players control a group of high school students who become trapped in a cursed elementary school and must navigate its haunted halls to find a way out.
The game features a unique “Sachiko Ever After Mode,” which allows players to explore the school from the perspective of different characters, each with their own unique abilities and storylines. This mode adds depth to the gameplay and encourages multiple playthroughs.
Story
Corpse Party: Book of Shadows takes place before the events of the original game and tells the story of the students of Kisaragi Academy’s drama club. While practicing a play in their school, they perform a charm they found on the internet, unaware that it is a dangerous ritual that summons the vengeful spirit of a murdered schoolgirl named Sachiko.
The students are transported to Heavenly Host Elementary School, a cursed place where Sachiko and her fellow murdered children roam as vengeful spirits. The students must find a way to escape the school and break the curse before they become victims of Sachiko’s wrath.
Characters
Corpse Party: Book of Shadows features a cast of unique and memorable characters, each with their own motivations and backstories. The main playable characters include:
- Ayumi Shinozaki: The president of the drama club, Ayumi is a strong-willed and determined girl who cares deeply for her friends.
- Yuuya Kizami: A mysterious and aloof student who seems to know more about the curse than he lets on.
- Yoshiki Kishinuma: A kind and gentle boy who is often the voice of reason in the group.
- Naomi Nakashima: A shy and timid girl who is often haunted by her past.
- Satoshi Mochida: A cheerful and optimistic boy who provides comic relief in the face of danger.
Themes
Corpse Party: Book of Shadows explores several dark and disturbing themes, including:
- The horrors of bullying: The game shows the devastating effects of bullying, both on the victims and the perpetrators.
- The power of friendship: In the face of overwhelming odds, the students learn to rely on each other and find strength in their friendships.
- The importance of redemption: The game offers a message of hope and redemption, even in the darkest of times.
Reception
Corpse Party: Book of Shadows received generally positive reviews from critics, with many praising its dark and disturbing atmosphere, compelling story, and well-developed characters. The game was also a commercial success, selling over 1 million copies worldwide.
Conclusion
Corpse Party: Book of Shadows is a haunting and unforgettable survival horror experience that will stay with you long after you finish playing. Its dark and disturbing story, memorable characters, and thought-provoking themes make it a must-play for fans of the genre. Whether you’re a seasoned horror veteran or a newcomer to the genre, Corpse Party: Book of Shadows is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Review Score
8/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
