Master Detective Archives: RAIN CODE Plus offers a new take on detective games, blending dark fantasy elements with the investigative gameplay that fans of the Danganronpa series have come to love. Developed by Spike Chunsoft, this PlayStation 5 “plus” version of the game not only brings the original title to a broader audience but also enhances it with new content, improved performance, and 4K visuals.
Set in the perpetually rainy city of Kanai Ward, the game’s premise immediately captivates with its atmospheric setting. The city is controlled by a powerful megacorporation, leaving mysteries unsolved and crime rampant. As players step into the shoes of Yuma, a young detective trainee, they join forces with a group of Master Detectives, each wielding unique “Forensic Fortes.” These powers, such as postcognition and disguise, allow for deeper and more varied investigations, adding layers to the gameplay as players collect clues and testimonies from each scene. Accompanied by Shinigami, a death god-like figure, Yuma’s investigations take him through a twisted, noir-inspired narrative filled with suspense and surprises.
At the heart of RAIN CODE Plus lies its unique dual-layered gameplay structure. Players spend time in the “real world” of Kanai Ward, exploring crime scenes and interacting with locals to gather the Solution Keys needed for solving cases. Once enough clues have been gathered, the game shifts into the “Mystery Labyrinth,” where the evidence materializes into challenges and obstacles that the player must overcome. This transition creates an engaging dynamic, combining puzzle-solving with more action-driven sequences. The fast-paced “Reasoning Death Match” sequences, where players face off against “Mystery Phantoms,” bring intensity to these moments, allowing players to literally cut through contradictions with their “Solution Blade.” This combination of detective work and action sequences is a unique twist on traditional visual novel-style investigations.
While the gameplay concept is innovative, it’s not without its flaws. Navigating through Kanai Ward during investigations can sometimes feel slow and repetitive, particularly when gathering clues in familiar environments. Though the addition of Forensic Fortes spices up these sections, there are moments where the pace drags, especially during prolonged investigations. The “Mystery Labyrinth,” on the other hand, is one of the stronger areas of the game, turning traditional detective work into a surreal and action-heavy experience, but even here, the constant switch between puzzle-solving and action may not appeal to everyone.
Visually, RAIN CODE Plus makes good use of the PlayStation 5’s hardware. The 4K remaster offers sharp, detailed environments, and the contrast between the moody rain-soaked city and the colorful elements of the Mystery Labyrinth makes the game a visual design treat. The improved performance ensures smoother gameplay, reducing the loading times and technical hiccups for a smoother experience.
In terms of sound design, the game excels in setting an atmospheric tone. The voice acting brings depth to each character, with standout performances adding emotional weight to the unfolding mysteries. The music, composed to fit the dark fantasy setting, enhances the tension during investigations and action sequences, though some tracks can feel repetitive after extended play sessions.
One of the biggest additions in RAIN CODE Plus is the extra content. The five new substories, each featuring a different Master Detective, offer interesting side narratives that help flesh out the supporting cast. These episodes give players more insight into the world of Kanai Ward, allowing for deeper character development and exploration of themes beyond the main storyline. These don’t drastically alter the core experience of the game, but they’re a nice addition nonetheless.
Overall, Master Detective Archives: RAIN CODE Plus is an engaging blend of detective work, action and dark fantasy, with a unique gameplay structure that combines classic investigation mechanics with fast-paced action. While the pacing may occasionally falter during exploration, the innovative Mystery Labyrinth sequences and the addition of new content make this version an excellent choice, especially for newcomers who didn’t buy the previous release. Fans of Spike Chunsoft’s previous works will also feel right at home, while those looking for a fresh twist on detective games will find plenty to enjoy, even if the game’s narrative and pacing aren’t without their challenges.
Score: 7.5/10
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