Psychological horror is a genre that thrives on atmosphere, storytelling, and the ability to evoke unease. MiSide stands out as a unique entry in the genre, combining elements of psychological tension with quirky mechanics and an unforgettable protagonist. Below is an organized review of this indie gem.
The Good
- Atmosphere: MiSide delivers a remarkable atmospheric experience. The cozy moments feel genuinely warm, contrasting sharply with the disconcerting, anxiety-inducing scenes. This deliberate tonal shift is executed brilliantly, keeping players on edge.
- Storytelling: The narrative avoids hand-holding, allowing players to organize the story. Major plot points are not spelled out, and there is no clichéd exposition dump at the end. This subtle storytelling enhances the sense of mystery and engagement, even if some scenes (like Mita’s monotonous moments) could feel repetitive.
- Soundtrack: The game’s OST is a standout feature. The variety of tracks aligns perfectly with the game’s mood shifts, from eerie to heartwarming. Kudos to the composer for crafting an audio experience that elevates the gameplay.
The Medium
The inclusion of minigames is a double-edged sword. While some offer a welcome break from the tension, others feel unnecessarily long or poorly placed. The “Guitar Hero” clone with Cool Mita is a prime example of a drawn-out experience, albeit an endearing one. Meanwhile, segments like shooting dragons on a ski lift tram could have been omitted without losing much.
The puzzle mechanics vary in effectiveness. Some are clever and integrate seamlessly into the game, while others feel obtuse. Spending 10 minutes searching for a wall clock can disrupt the carefully built tension of preceding scenes. Although none are insurmountable, the inconsistency detracts from the overall pacing.
The Not-Quite-Ugly
Certain aspects of MiSide didn’t resonate as strongly but aren’t dealbreakers:
- Subtitles and Menus: While serviceable, the subtitles and menus could use refinement. They occasionally break immersion but are minor quibbles in an otherwise polished presentation.
- Save System: A manual save option would have been a welcome addition. Currently, the game’s autosave system only activates at the start of each chapter, which can be inconvenient for players.
Highlights
Mita: The Star of the Show
Mita, the protagonist, is a blend of charm and menace. Her multifaceted personality, sweet, loving, and horrifying, creates an unforgettable character that anchors the entire experience. For fans of the “yandere” archetype, Mita is a dream (or nightmare) come true.
Visuals and Performance
The game boasts polished visuals, detailed environments, and a clean art style. The Japanese voice acting is top-notch, and the game runs smoothly, even on low-spec PCs. This level of optimization is rare, especially for Unity-based games.
Replayability
Multiple endings and achievements add layers of depth, encouraging players to revisit the game. The unresolved elements of the story and the prospect of discovering more about Mita’s character are compelling reasons to replay.
Fan Reactions
MiSide has already garnered a cult following. Players resonate with its emotional rollercoaster, blending horror and heartfelt moments. The game’s ability to evoke such strong reactions is a testament to its quality.
The community’s adoration for Mita has reached amusing heights, with some fans commissioning custom merchandise inspired by her. The game’s impact on its audience is undeniable.
Room for Improvement
Introducing controller support could enhance accessibility.
Refining puzzle design to maintain tension without frustrating players would elevate the experience further.
Expanding the save system to include manual saves would offer greater flexibility.
Final Thoughts
MiSide is a shining example of what indie developers can achieve when passion and creativity drive the project. Despite its minor flaws, the game delivers a fresh and engaging psychological horror experience. Its polished presentation, unique mechanics, and lovable yet terrifying protagonist make it one of the standout indie titles of the year.
Rating: 8/10
Whether you’re a fan of psychological horror or just looking for something different, MiSide is a must-play. With its blend of cuteness and creepiness, it’s sure to leave a lasting impression. Let’s hope for a follow-up, more Mita is always welcome!