In a recent interview with game developer Hakababunko, the inspiration behind the haunting visual novel adventure, Urban Myth Dissolution Center, was unveiled. The game, a blend of mystery, horror, and psychological tension, has garnered significant success with over 100,000 units sold in just 10 days. Hakababunko delved into the significance of urban legends as the basis for the game, emphasizing the allure of these narratives that straddle the line between reality and fiction.
Urban legends, with their enigmatic nature, captivate audiences by blurring the boundaries of truth and myth. Hakababunko drew inspiration from contemporary urban myths surrounding COVID-19, particularly conspiracy theories propagated through social media, which influenced their storytelling approach in Urban Myth Dissolution Center. The game’s storyline cleverly mirrors the rapid dissemination of rumors on social platforms and the real-world impact they can have.
The pixel art style of the game, characterized by its psychedelic quality, was a deliberate choice to enhance the eerie and mysterious atmosphere. By employing a minimalist approach that leaves room for interpretation, the art style effectively immerses players in the unsettling world of urban legends. The protagonist, Azami Fukurai, was designed to evoke a sense of vulnerability, juxtaposing her investigative prowess with a genuine fear of the supernatural elements she encounters.
Notably, the character Ayumu Meguriya, the Center Director, adds a unique dimension to the narrative as a wheelchair user with extraordinary psychic abilities. Hakababunko emphasized the importance of representing diverse characters in gaming and highlighted how Meguriya’s limitations and strengths shape the gameplay dynamics, creating a symbiotic relationship with Azami’s fieldwork.
The integration of social media posts as evidence within the game mechanics reflects the contemporary phenomenon of urban legends evolving through online platforms. By simulating the process of sifting through social media for clues, the developers aimed to provide an authentic investigative experience while navigating the complexities of modern internet culture.
Urban Myth Dissolution Center transcends traditional horror tropes by focusing on psychological tension and the dark undercurrents of human nature. Hakababunko clarified that the game leans more towards mystery thriller than conventional horror, aiming to instill a sense of unease rooted in the malevolence of human actions rather than supernatural entities.
Drawing from past projects like “Makoto Wakaido’s Case Files,” Hakababunko emphasized the evolution of storytelling techniques and game design, particularly in enhancing character expressions and puzzle mechanics. The game’s thematic exploration of the intersection between physical reality and the digital realm mirrors society’s evolving relationship with folklore in the age of online urban myths.
In a hypothetical scenario where the Urban Myth Dissolution Center existed in reality, Hakababunko humorously envisioned themselves in a logistical role rather than engaging directly with supernatural cases. The interview concluded with a nod to investigating cryptids like Bigfoot, encapsulating the enduring fascination with urban legends and the mysteries they hold.
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