Nintendo Switch 9 R.I.P. Review

9 R.I.P., developed by Design Factory and published by Idea Factory International, is a supernatural otome visual novel that recently made its way to the Nintendo Switch. This intriguing title blends elements of romance, horror, and personal growth into a unique gaming experience that's perfect for fans of the genre and newcomers alike.


The game follows Misa Isshiki, a second-year high school student grappling with uncertainty about her future. Her life takes an unexpected turn when she finds herself trapped in a supernatural realm, forced to navigate through four distinct story arcs:

1. School Ghost Stories
2. Urban Legends
3. Other Realm
4. Spirit World

Each arc offers a different flavor of supernatural encounters, from eerie school hauntings to mythical urban legends. The game features nine potential love interests, each with their own unique backstories and personalities that unfold as you progress through their routes.


The writing is generally strong, with well-developed characters and intriguing plot twists. The protagonist, Misa, is relatable and shows genuine growth throughout the story. The game tackles themes of self-discovery, overcoming fears, and the complexities of relationships, both romantic and familial.


As a visual novel, the gameplay primarily revolves around reading text and making choices that affect the story's direction. The game introduces two types of decisions:

• Thought Decisions: These shape the story from Misa's perspective.
• Insanity Decisions: These add an element of unpredictability and can lead to unexpected outcomes.

The branching paths and multiple endings provide significant replay value, encouraging players to explore different routes and uncover all the secrets the game has to offer.


9 R.I.P. boasts stunning artwork by Yuuya, known for their work on Cupid Parasite. The character designs are expressive and detailed, while the backgrounds effectively set the mood for each scene. CG illustrations are particularly impressive, capturing key moments with vivid detail.

The game is fully voice-acted in Japanese, with performances that bring the characters to life and enhance the emotional impact of the story. The soundtrack complements the atmosphere well, ranging from eerie tracks for tense moments to more upbeat tunes for lighter scenes.



On the Nintendo Switch, 9 R.I.P. runs smoothly with quick loading times between scenes. The text is clear and easy to read in both docked and handheld modes. The game supports both controller and touchscreen inputs, offering flexibility in how players interact with the game.

Pros:

• Engaging storyline with multiple branching paths
• Well-developed characters and romance options
• Stunning artwork and CG illustrations
• Full Japanese voice acting
• Smooth performance on Nintendo Switch

Cons:

• Some routes may feel shorter or less developed than others
• Horror elements might be too mild for hardcore horror fans
• Text-heavy nature may not appeal to players seeking more active gameplay

9 R.I.P. is a solid addition to the otome visual novel genre on the Nintendo Switch. Its blend of supernatural elements, romance, and personal growth creates a compelling narrative that will keep players engaged for hours. While it may not satisfy those looking for intense horror or action-packed gameplay, it offers a rich, story-driven experience with beautiful visuals and strong character development.

For fans of otome games, visual novels, or those interested in supernatural stories with a romantic twist, 9 R.I.P. is definitely worth picking up. It provides a perfect balance of spooky atmosphere and heartwarming moments, making it an ideal choice for cozy gaming sessions, especially during the Halloween season.

Final Score: 8.5/10

9 R.I.P. successfully delivers an immersive supernatural romance experience that stands out in the visual novel landscape on the Nintendo Switch.