Never 7: The End of Infinity (2000)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 6 minutes read

Summary

Never 7: The End of Infinity: A Riveting Tale of Time Loops and Redemption

Introduction

Never 7: The End of Infinity is a groundbreaking mystery visual novel that captivated audiences upon its release in 2000. As the first installment in the Infinity series, it set the stage for a captivating saga that explores the complexities of time, fate, and human connections.

Story

The game follows Makoto Ishihara, a college student who attends a seminar camp on a remote island with three other students: Saki Ashikaga, Mizuki Kosaka, and Fumio Nanahara. As they explore the island and form bonds, Makoto befriends three more individuals: Haruka Nanase, Yuki Akamatsu, and Kurumi Akamatsu.

Over the course of a week, the player reads the story and makes choices that influence the plot’s direction. On the sixth day, tragedy strikes when one of the female characters is murdered. The game then resets, returning to the beginning of the week.

Armed with the knowledge gained from the first playthrough, the player can make different choices to try to prevent the character’s death. However, as the week progresses, Makoto and his friends uncover a web of secrets, hidden motives, and a sinister force that threatens to destroy them all.

Characters

  • Makoto Ishihara: A kind and compassionate college student who finds himself at the center of the time loop and the island’s mysteries.

  • Saki Ashikaga: A bright and outgoing student who initially appears cheerful but hides a troubled past.

  • Mizuki Kosaka: A shy and intelligent student who possesses a deep understanding of the island’s history and folklore.

  • Fumio Nanahara: A confident and athletic student who serves as the leader of the group.

  • Haruka Nanase: A mysterious and aloof girl who claims to have lost her memories.

  • Yuki Akamatsu: A cheerful and optimistic girl who is always looking for adventure.

  • Kurumi Akamatsu: Yuki’s older sister, a mature and responsible young woman who cares deeply for her family.

Gameplay

Never 7 is a visual novel, meaning that the gameplay primarily involves reading text and making choices that affect the story’s progression. The game features multiple endings, depending on the choices the player makes throughout the week.

The time loop mechanic adds a unique layer of complexity to the gameplay. Players must carefully consider their choices, as each decision can have far-reaching consequences. By replaying the week multiple times, players can uncover new information and gain a deeper understanding of the characters and their motivations.

Themes

Never 7 explores a range of profound themes, including:

  • The nature of time and fate: The time loop mechanic forces the characters to confront the consequences of their actions and question whether fate is truly immutable.

  • The power of friendship and love: In the face of adversity, the bonds between the characters are tested and strengthened.

  • The importance of redemption: The characters are given multiple chances to make different choices and change their destinies.

  • The battle between good and evil: The island becomes a battleground between the forces of light and darkness, and the characters must choose which side they will fight for.

Legacy

Never 7: The End of Infinity was a critical and commercial success, spawning several sequels and spin-offs. It is widely regarded as one of the greatest visual novels ever created, and its innovative gameplay and thought-provoking themes continue to captivate audiences today.

The Infinity series has become synonymous with high-quality storytelling, complex characters, and mind-bending plot twists. Never 7 set the foundation for this beloved franchise and remains a must-play for fans of mystery, time travel, and visual novels.

Conclusion

Never 7: The End of Infinity is a masterpiece of interactive storytelling that transcends the boundaries of traditional gaming. Its intricate plot, compelling characters, and profound themes make it an unforgettable experience that will stay with players long after they finish playing. Whether you’re a seasoned visual novel enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, Never 7 is a must-play that will challenge your mind and touch your heart.

Review Score

8/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

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Christopher has carved a niche for himself as an authority on retro pre-2000 computer games. With a passion that borders on reverence, Christopher delves deep into the pixelated past of gaming, unearthing gems and sharing insights that resonate with both nostalgic players and curious newcomers. His articles serve as a time machine, transporting readers back to an era where gameplay and creativity often trumped graphical fidelity. Cristopher's expertise isn't just in cataloging these classics; he analyzes their design, the context of their creation, and their impact on the gaming landscape, offering a comprehensive look at the evolution of digital entertainment. Beyond mere retrospectives, Christopher champions the relevance of these retro games in today's high-definition world. He skillfully draws parallels between the foundational mechanics of yesteryear's titles and the modern gaming innovations they inspired. His work goes beyond mere preservation; it's an ongoing dialogue between the past and present of gaming. Christopher's content educates, entertains, and ignites discussions within the gaming community. His dedication not only keeps the legacy of pre-2000 games alive but also highlights their importance in shaping the future of video gaming.

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