Summary
- Release Year: 2016
- Genres: Adventure, Visual Novel
- Platforms: Nintendo Switch, PlayStation Vita
- Developers: Design Factory, Idea Factory, Otomate
- Publishers: Aksys Games, Idea Factory
Collar x Malice: A Riveting Visual Novel with a Gripping Story and Unforgettable Characters
Introduction
Released in 2016, Collar x Malice is a visual novel developed by Voltage Inc. for the PlayStation Vita. It follows the story of Ichika Hoshino, a police officer in Shinjuku, Tokyo, who becomes involved in the “X-Day Incident” after being attacked and having a collar with poison placed around her neck. To save her life, she must work with five former police officers to investigate the incident and uncover the truth behind the mysterious organization known as Adonis.
Gameplay
As a visual novel, Collar x Malice primarily involves reading text and making choices that affect the story’s progression. Players take on the role of Ichika and interact with a cast of characters, building relationships and gathering information to solve the X-Day Incident. The game features multiple routes, each focusing on a different romantic relationship between Ichika and one of the five male characters.
Characters
- Ichika Hoshino: A 22-year-old police officer who is attacked and becomes the target of Adonis. She is determined to solve the X-Day Incident and save her own life.
- Kei Okazaki: A 28-year-old former police officer who is now a private investigator. He is Ichika’s childhood friend and has a protective nature towards her.
- Takeru Sasazuka: A 27-year-old former police officer who is now a doctor. He is calm and collected, and provides medical support to the team.
- Mineo Enomoto: A 32-year-old former police officer who is now a hacker. He is a skilled computer expert and provides technical support to the team.
- Aiji Yanagi: A 29-year-old former police officer who is now a bartender. He is a mysterious and enigmatic character with a troubled past.
- Yanagi Aiji: A high-ranking member of Adonis who is responsible for the X-Day Incident. He is a ruthless and ambitious man who seeks to control Japan.
Story
The story of Collar x Malice begins on X-Day, when a series of terrorist attacks occur in Shinjuku, Tokyo. Ichika is attacked and has a collar with poison placed around her neck. She is rescued by five former police officers, who form a team to investigate the X-Day Incident and apprehend the terrorist organization responsible.
As the team investigates, they uncover a complex web of corruption and conspiracy. They learn that Adonis is a powerful organization with far-reaching influence, and that the X-Day Incident is just one part of a larger plan to seize control of Japan.
Ichika and her team must race against time to stop Adonis and save the city. Along the way, they must confront their own personal demons and make difficult choices that will shape the future of Japan.
Themes
Collar x Malice explores a number of complex themes, including:
- Justice and corruption: The game examines the nature of justice and the role of law enforcement in a corrupt society.
- Love and sacrifice: Ichika and her team must make difficult choices that test the limits of their love and loyalty.
- Identity and self-discovery: The game explores the characters’ struggles with their own identities and the choices they make that shape who they are.
Reception
Collar x Malice was a critical and commercial success. It was praised for its gripping story, well-developed characters, and beautiful artwork. The game has sold over 500,000 copies worldwide and has been ported to multiple platforms, including the Nintendo Switch and PC.
Conclusion
Collar x Malice is a must-play visual novel for fans of the genre. With its compelling story, unforgettable characters, and thought-provoking themes, it is a game that will stay with you long after you finish playing.
Review Score
8.5/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
