DRAMAtical Murder

DRAMAtical Murder is widely praised as a classic and beloved yaoi visual novel, known for its rich storylines, complex characters, and beautiful artwork. Players appreciate the multiple routes and endings, which offer a mix of sweet, heart-wrenching, and sometimes cruel moments. The game's appeal lies in its ability to engage players emotionally while providing a visually stunning experience. Many fans have nostalgic connections to the game, recalling the early days of patching and translations before it was widely accessible.

However, the Steam version is criticized for being heavily censored, lacking explicit content that many players expect. To experience the full uncensored game, players often resort to DLCs or external patches. The story, while compelling, includes some questionable plot choices and the handling of sensitive topics like sexual assault, which some players find problematic. Despite these issues, the game remains a fun and memorable experience for fans of the genre.

Highlights

Players consistently praise the game's artwork and animation, describing it as stunning and high quality. The storywriting is engaging, with multiple routes that allow players to explore different character perspectives and endings. The voice acting is also highlighted as well done, adding depth to the characters. The game’s lore and world-building attract players who enjoy piecing together complex narratives. Fans love the emotional range offered, from sweet to devastating scenes, making the storytelling impactful.

Criticisms

Common criticisms include the heavy censorship in the Steam version, which removes much of the explicit content that originally attracted players. Some find the story contains plot holes and questionable character decisions that detract from immersion. The handling of sexual assault is frequently called out for being downplayed and inadequately addressed, which some players find uncomfortable or inappropriate. Additionally, the pacing can be slow due to long dialogue sections without choices, leading to potential distractions. Players recommend caution due to trigger warnings and content sensitivity.