In these trying times, when we are either in lockdown or just around the corner from it, why not get cozy on the couch with a hot cup of goodness and a good novel, a visual novel that is. Thanks to Woodsy Studio, we are treated to a rather fitting otome-style, visual novel about adjusting to life trapped in a small town locked off from the world. Crimson Spires, sees our protagonist, Erika Wright, dealing with the traumatic events that challenge her beliefs, relationships, and willpower. Published by WastAsiaSoft, Crimson Spires is now available on Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, Series X|S, and PlayStation 4|5.

Now I must say, I do not have a staggering list of completed visual novels under my belt, not through lack of trying though. I know they can be a commitment and quite frankly, there can be a lot of filler and they struggle to capture me early on. A casual introduction to FBI agent, Erika, driving down the highway gets interrupted by an urgent call to investigate a crashed prisoner escort. Not bad I thought, opening with a bit of urgency, they go on to elaborate that this prisoner is the notorious killer named the Heartbreaker.

Alright then, a little smirk creeping across my face, I can appreciate the little bread crumbs they are putting out there as I slowly pick at them. Throw in a bit of a jump scare and all the ingredients of an exhilarating visual novel have officially got me hooked.

Within minutes of reaching the crime scene, you are confronted by an accused serial killer, giant Crimson Spires burst through the ground and surround the Town of Battaille and then your coworker’s head literally explodes as he tried to cross the perimeter. At this stage, I had a genuine smile and playful chuckle as the story jumped forward six months as madness has begun to set in. No one can enter or leave the perimeter and over 100 people had died trying, including any remaining law enforcement.

Effectively leaving you as the acting Sheriff of this small town. Everyone in town has grown up together and the only person from out of town, other than you, is August Flynn, the accused serial killer locked in the cell next to your desk.

Broken up over 10 chapters, a plethora of options and potential love interests present moral and even philosophical choices to follow. I have to commend the voice acting of Bradley Gareth, his playful demeanour really brought the character of August Flynn to life and had me questioning if he really was the Heartbreak Killer. Turning to him for help as the world turns from mad to supernatural are some of the best moments of story-telling. I don’t want to overtly spoil the supernatural themes, they are revealed quite early on but maybe you should watch “ The Lost Boys” for a bit of homework. With four potential love interests and multiple endings for all paths, you are left wondering multiple times over.

There are few ways to approach a visual novel, collecting clues and items and trying to fit them into the right holes is one avenue. Crimson Spires, however, is much more direct and plays off your memory and emotions. Hand-drawn style artwork depicts each character as they slide in and out during conversations. For better or worse there are D areas to explore with some, let’s say minimalist approach to imagery.

Liam’s storyline had some of the more impressive environments to explore but I feel the game would have succeeded without these sections altogether. It did help to sell the ominous tone of the game with a healthy dose of eerie music and cliché, flirtatious beats to set the tone for the romantic scenes.

Crimson Spires was a tantalising journey of self-discovery and a little bit of self-indulgent fun. It kept me guessing while leaning into the stereotypical dramas normally found in such a game which really paid off. For a relatively low cost, I would absolutely recommend this game for a bit of late-night reading, a bit of laugh, and even a few good thoughtful moments.

Written by: Shane Fletcher