Eroge Review

Two hundred years ago an unspeakable evil roamed the Japanese forests of Kurehito, slaughtering women and unleashing catastrophic havoc beyond the boundaries of human imagination. Finding no possible means to effectively destroy this primordial horror, the surviving victims began to appease the entity as a deity, creating an inadvertent opportunity which made it possible to imprison the monster within the confines of a consecrated site. Freed from this terrible nightmare, the people rebuilt their community and lives, prospering through the decades into modern times as a vibrant (though somewhat rural) Japanese town. So too has the forgotten malevolence continued to evolve and change, unbarring its jail and forging unlikely alliances, all the while seeking to sate a grisly hunger that has endured for two centuries.
.
Gore Screaming Show (ゴア・スクリーミング・ショウ) is a violent horror and mystery eroge published by Black Cyc in 2006. The title has a non-canonical crossover with Yami no Koe, which was made available through limited edition preorders.
.

.
I have often heard the argument, that in terms of story quality and character development, Gore Screaming Show continues to maintain its position as the greatest Black Cyc release to date. For a significant number of reasons I am inclined to agree: not a small feat considering the outstanding scenarios of MinDeaD BlooD and Gun-Katana. Taking its title from one of the leading antagonists, the phrase also expresses what it provides in abundance: gore and screaming. Yet nothing could be more deceptive, than the belief that the eroge is merely a mindless tentacle murder rape festival (which is not necessarily bad depending on your tastes). The narrative of Gore Screaming Show is an incredible masterpiece of plot twists and complexity, giving rise to new mysteries and horrors that truly stretch the imagination. Of course malicious sex and unrelenting violence are thoroughly engrained in the presentation of key events, but unlocking the reason why these horrors are happening, rather than the actual occurrence itself, is far more important.
.

.
Gore Screaming Show begins with the heartwarming return of Kyouji Jinno, a relatively unassuming yet personable student, to the remote suburban community of his early childhood. As he reacquaints himself with old friends in the immediate days that follow, Kyouji appreciatively discovers that the three preschool girls whom he was especially close with, have grown into beautiful young women. With his parents still employed overseas in the United States, Kyouji takes up residence with his aunt: a cheerful woman with an unusual passion for occult research, and relatively carefree in regards to his responsibilities. In this eased environment, Kyouji finds many opportunities to pursue leisure activities, reforming bonds of friendship that were nearly lost from his poignant separation and slowly realizing how cherished he was to people left behind.
.

.
Upon settling in his renewed life, and possibly sparking the flames of romance with an old friend in the process, the grateful Kyouji accepts a request from his aunt to help unravel mysteries concerning paranormal phenomena she is investigating. They immediately set off, accompanied by concerned friends in tow, into an ominous undeveloped forest that boarders the town. After learning the haunting details of an obscure local myth, the group splits apart to cover more ground quickly, whereupon Kyouji eventually stumbles across the goal of their search: a forgotten decayed well. Suddenly a lone adolescent girl appears, candidly forthcoming and friendly in disposition towards Kyouji, yet holding utter contempt and venomous hatred for his female companions. When the encounter is suddenly cut short, the nameless child inexplicably vanishes without a trace, leaving just as silently abrupt as she arrived. Thus the lock to Pandora’s Box is unbarred, and destiny sends Kyouji back into the forests a second time, further arousing the attentions of the mysterious young girl - an interest that inaugurates events of chaotic death and destruction in its wake… all of it committed in the pursuit of happiness once denied.
.

.
With a core focus on the nature of friendship and loyalty, Gore Screaming Show is a tidal wave of character development and exploration. Initially presented as something little different from the typical high school eroge setting, the entire scenario makes a sudden turn into darkness and depravity with the introduction of Yuka - an enigmatic and vindictive child - transforming everything into a roller coaster of mysteries and lies that keep the player utterly enslaved. Although mired in what some might consider excessive bloody violence, so much so that Black Cyc incorporated an optional censorship mode that allows visual removal of the most disturbing scenes, the plot’s intention remains devoted towards ascertaining rational for all the horrors being committed. Pursuit of each winnable girl slowly unravels a seemingly small piece of the puzzle, while at the same time forming genuine concern for her wellbeing, encouraging repeated play with another heroine to unlock more of the greater unknown. As you learn more and more of the past, obvious truths become self evident, and you begin to question how hidden plot elements revealed earlier slipped so easily. Yet immediately after the fragments are assembled and the true ending route is made available, the player will discover that the eroge is not a tale that concerns the protagonist and three heroines, nor a recollection of atrocities performed by the antagonists, but solely about the malicious instigators themselves: forsaken Yuka and incomprehensible Gore. Such is the depth of their characterization and hardships, many may very well find justification for the duo’s infliction of nightmare after nightmare upon an ignorant uncaring world.
.

.
From paper dolls to backgrounds to event images, the artwork in Gore Screaming Show always maintains a strong presence. Not only do characters enjoy a large selection of alternate positions and facial expressions, but they actually change attire from time to time. Environmental visuals are subtly enhanced with 3D rendering, highly effective illumination effects, and particular close attention to detail in regards to plot relevance. Far from least of all, key scenes marshal an abundance of outstanding illustrations - most especially during the occurrence of sex. The arena of audio is no less generous, as all characters except the leading protagonist are voiced: including the briefest and most insignificant of roles. Each actor and actress gives a commanding performance worthy of praise, yet as keenly appropriate as each role is filled, none can compare to the accomplishment of Gore’s. One must literally hear his voice to actually believe it, but rarely is such a character so perfectly matched. Let me say that again: perfectly matched. Were it not literally his show to begin with, Gore would have clearly stolen it. Quality does not end there however, for the music is unequivocally flawless, each song matching the particular mood and situation: be it ominous discovery, frightening despair, or joyous victory. The songs used in the introduction movie and true ending alone make it worthwhile listening to the soundtrack (packaged exclusively with the first printing and limited edition).
.

.
Bestowing over forty individual sex scenes, Gore Screaming Show obviously delivers on the adult material. Duration of these events varies on the situation, with the shortest consisting of four images and the longest ranging eighteen to twenty. Quite unusual for a Black Cyc title, much of the erotic content is delayed until the middle or ending of a particular route, as plot very much takes precedence, but there is clearly no disappointment when it finally arrives. It should be noted that nine events have the option for deeper censoring, in addition to the traditional genital mosaics, due to the extreme violence contained within them. These pictures include mutilations such as exposed intestines, torn limbs, mutilated wombs, and decapitation: with all the voice acted crying and anguish that goes with it - not called Gore Screaming Show for nothing. Nonetheless inoffensive consensual sex is present (one or two per girl) and it is entirely possible to elude the brutal selections while achieving a romantic ending. Indeed most of the dark sex only occurs in the bad endings; thus meant to be avoided.
.

.
Gore Screaming Show is a top tier example of what some might detest as needlessly violent eroge. All the same, the title is of such immaculate performance, to claim it lacks redemption is explicitly false. The deliciously unpredictable plot remains entirely coherent despite the frequent twists and turns experienced, using allusions and foreshadowing that sincerely justifies categorizing the title within the mystery genre. Furthermore, vicious as the more depraved sex events may be (which can be entirely avoided for the good endings), there is an underlying reason that raises disturbing questions of justification upon revelation. Gore Screaming Show is more than a sexfest; more than erotic grotesque nonsense. It is a compelling story of profound tragedy and inspiring salvation: one that I believe everyone should have the openness to experience and understand before seeking uninformed condemnation. For those who believe “dark eroge” has no place in their collection, you won’t find a better title to be proven wrong.
.
.
— Central Characters —
.

	Akane Kazuyagi . Blood Type: A . Birthdate: May 15 . Measurements: 80 - 60 - 83 . The closest of childhood friends, Akane was once like a sister to Kyouji. Rarely displaying her femininity outwardly, Akane is oftentimes mistaken as tomboyish, which is especially rooted from her preference to directly take charge of situations she believes are being poorly handled. Akane nonetheless remains popular and sought after by many male students.
	Aoi Namiki . Blood Type: B . Birthdate: June 27 . Measurements: 78 - 56 - 80 . Physically frail and emotionally withdrawn, Aoi seems lost in perpetual deep thought and socially unapproachable. Due to this, relatively few individuals pay heed to her existence, much less acknowledge as a friend. To those cherished people who know better, Aoi is unfailingly devoted and dependable, occasionally surprising them with her quirky yet endearing hidden personality.
	Kiika Misono . Blood Type: O . Birthdate: October 5 . Measurements: 83 - 58 - 82 . The daughter of a fabulously wealthy business family, Kiika is an exotic mix of British and Japanese bloodlines. By pure chance and circumstance, Kiika has also returned to Kurehito at the same time as Kyouji, equally overjoyed as him to rekindle their childhood friendship. Kiika exhibits an intense passion for scientific courses, particularly those that apply to astrological fields.
	Yamiko Saitama . Blood Type: B . Birthdate: December 5 . Measurements: 90 - 62 - 85 . Yamiko is the cousin of Kyouji’s mother, serving as a legal guardian in place of his parents. She is an accomplished though somewhat obscure occultist, and works as a leading editor of ABRAZE: an underground magazine devoted to revealing legitimate supernatural activity that the government contends does not exist.
	Yoshiki Yatsuse . Blood Type: Unknown . Birthdate: Unknown . Brutally critical of others and quick to abruptly end conversation when it fails to suit his concerns, the vagabond Yoshiki possesses intimate knowledge of Kurehito’s darkest secret and the unusual atrocities surrounding them. There are signs he has a special relationship with Yamiko, but what history they share is not immediately known to Kyouji.
	Yuka . Blood Type: Unknown . Birthdate: Unknown . Measurements: 75 - 56 - 78 . A mysterious girl with the face of an angel and the soul of a demon, Yuka has a macabre possessive affection towards Kyouji. She appears and vanishes on a whim, bring more questions than answers with each arrival, eternally seeking approval in his eyes while bitterly condemning anyone else who draws closer to him.
	Gore Screaming Show . Blood Type: Indeterminable . Birthdate: Indeterminable . Gore is an entity that transcends all rational concepts, for he is a creature of chaos incarnate, far beyond the comprehension of mortal understanding. Nearly devoid of logical constancy, Gore’s sole anchor of reliability is the unwavering loyalty he exhibits towards Yuka. Taking the physical amalgamation of a cat, clown, devil, and machine, his perpetual madness is united with the deadly combination of sarcastic wit, insulting condescension, sadistic humor, and godlike power.

.
.
— Scored Summary —
.
Scenario: 30 out of 30. While there are fourteen possible endings, the eroge is divided into four main story arcs. Each shares a common beginning, but after the first quarter is complete, they greatly deviate in progression and proceedings. Following the individual paths reveals a little more of the larger puzzle, making it entirely worthwhile to see every ending. Character development and cross interaction between the cast is rigidly maintained regardless of which tale is being pursued.
.
Visual: 20 out of 20. A wondrous combination of exceptional event illustrations, diverse paper dolls, and minutely detailed backgrounds. The character designs are deceptively straightforward, ideally emulating the “normal lifestyle” required… with an obvious exception to Gore of course, who is absolutely original while freakishly awesome, and the haunting loligoth appearance of Yuka. The only serious fault is that the paper dolls tend to be a bit “stiff” (lack of dynamic motion as an art teacher might say), but its quickly overlooked.
.
Audio: 18 out of 20. The holder of a first class soundtrack that’s suited for an actual anime or full production console game: absolutely no track is wasted or unwanted. Had the main protagonist been provided a speaking role, the title would have enjoyed total voice acting. While understandable, since a significant number of eroge share this trait, the matter is a significant loss and the sole blemish on an otherwise perfect (and I mean perfect) sound package.
.
Erotica: 25 out of 30. Although billeted as a gorefest, the worst of it is significantly tamer than the actual “hardcore” releases: even Black Cyc has surpassed the violent sex with other offerings in their own lineup. There are over forty scenes total, ranging from benign consensual true love to rape gangbangs to outright tentacle inflicted disfigurement and dismemberment.
.
Mechanics: 0 point neutrality. The typical “choose your response” menu system that most eroge share.
.
Final Score: 93 out of 100. As far as dark eroge were concerned, in the year of 2006, no other title stood a remote chance of matching the triumph of Gore Screaming Show. It ranks incredibly high on my opinionated list of “greatest eroge ever made” - and I’ve encountered few gamers who would not agree that it’s an achievement of excellence. Strongly recommended for purchase, for we may never come across anything of it’s like in a long time.

1. Zeroblade Says:
   February 4th, 2008 at 6:26 am

   I’ve heard some people talk about how good this is, though I never knew that it was this well received.



2. Kresnik Says:
   February 5th, 2008 at 9:31 pm

   This post has been written by Ayyo, right? But since it’s gone, it’s actually kind of nice to see this post again. I’ve played this one, and it’s very good in my opinion, though I looked away for some bloody scenes >_>

   But I don’t quite understand the weird ending that ‘involves’ Mashiro. Care to explain it a little?



3. Nero Blackheart Says:
   February 8th, 2008 at 3:29 pm

   Narg…
   You did it.
   I dont know what to say except that this review is most excellent and inspireing.
   Even master Gore is pleased and went out to… do his thing…
   What else needs to be said?

   Praise be to you Master Of Dark Extasy And Twins.

   (side note: ONLY 93 OF 100???)



4. happoubi jin Says:
   February 8th, 2008 at 3:36 pm

   Looks great, I really want to check this out.



5. Nargrakhan Says:
   February 11th, 2008 at 1:31 am

   @Kresnik: Naw… I wrote this review, although I remember Ayyo reviewed it on his old site. I’d rather not post a major spoiler on the comments section, so I’ll email the answer to your question.
   .
   @Nero Blackheart: The game is nearly perfect, but not quite there. For one thing, while it has gore and screaming, it is not the goriest and screamiest. It also would have been great if Kyouji was voice acted. Nonetheless, Gore Screaming Show still kicks ass, and having a score over 90 is no laughing matter to me.



6. Mazryonh Says:
   February 11th, 2008 at 7:53 pm

   If this game is that good, I can’t wait until you review Cartagra by Innocent Grey!



7. Ignosco Says:
   February 22nd, 2008 at 2:49 am

   I came across a translation project for GSS here. It’s excellent news, but I have a bad premonition that even if it gets underway, it will end up incomplete like so many other unofficial translations…



8. Nero Blackheart Says:
   February 27th, 2008 at 12:14 pm

   I would be euphoric if a translation would be made for this.
   Side note: everyone the night of Walpurgis is coming, I would like to advise everyone to prepare a nice little party and spike the drinks.



9. Jenny Says:
   May 11th, 2008 at 7:52 pm

   I wish this game could be translated. It will never come out offically in english, because Yuka looks loli.



10. That Guy Says:
    August 4th, 2008 at 4:49 pm

    Hi, I hate to bother, but even after playing this game like crazy, I still didn’t understand a lot (my Japanese is pretty limited)

    If it isn’t too much trouble, could somebody e-mail me exactly what Gore is and all of his details, as well as Yuka’s and her connections to Gore? It would really be appreciated.