At its core, Still Joking is a murder mystery. However, it’s different from typical entries in the genre because we already know the “who”; what we want to uncover is the “why.” As we guide Iris (and her subconsciousness) through a journey of self-discovery, we find a witty, sharp, and determined protagonist. Iris’s deep connection with her “prototype” (the human on the other side of the mirror) drives her to unravel the circumstances surrounding her murder.
I don’t want to spoil anything, but let’s just say the interactions and developments that unfold are both compelling and thought-provoking.
Fix Gaming Channel rates Still Joking 8/10!
Narrative Depth and Dialogue
The story of Still Joking is richly layered and successfully draws you in, maintaining your interest throughout. However, it can drag at times, particularly during lengthy dialogues between characters or Iris’s internal monologues. Technical discussions sometimes become tedious, and even the witty banter occasionally feels overdone. Despite these minor hiccups, the blend of humor and mystery makes for an engaging experience.
Gameplay and Replay Value
The game also features puzzles and minigames that involve both thought and interaction. They’re most prominent in the interactions within the scientists’ and practitioners’ camps. Excelling in these tasks impacts Iris’s standing with the groups she’s helping and shapes her development as a character.
Purple Brick Games boasts a staggering number of choices, lending Still Joking tremendous replay value. The variety of choices ensures that no two playthroughs are the same, which is a huge plus for a narrative-driven game like this.
Key Features
- Multiple Endings: Explore diverse outcomes for the main storylines and significant characters.
- Extensive Playthrough: Engage in 12 to 15 hours of gameplay featuring a staggering number of choices and 400,000 words.
- Interactive Elements: Dive into interactive points, QTEs, and investigative mechanics.
- Fully Voiced Cat: Enjoy the company of a fully voiced feline companion who adds charm and wit.
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Game Information
Still Joking
Release Date: May 17, 2024
Genre: Narrative, Visual Novel, Mystery
Developer/Publisher: Purple Brick Games
Platforms: Steam
Visuals and Artistic Style
Still Joking is visually stunning. The colorful art and beautifully designed characters add vibrancy to the mirrored world. The aesthetic appeal complements the story’s twists and turns, creating an immersive experience.
Final Thoughts
Overall, Still Joking offers a unique and intriguing take on the murder mystery genre. With a captivating story, layered characters, and a unique protagonist in Iris, the game is a must-play. While the dialogue can sometimes be lengthy, the game’s wit, engaging puzzles, and replayability make it a standout title.
Enjoy narrative games? Don’t miss our Pavement to Permafrost review.
Love story-rich indies? Try Hitori Kakurenbo Online.
Written by Ronny Fiksdahl, Founder & Editor of Fix Gaming Channel.
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