Root Letter

Root Letter takes up the name of the Japanese visual novel proposing an adventure full of mystery and fascination. The title stands at above-average levels of quality thanks to a good script and impressive stylistic choices.

Root Letter is a great visual novel with superb production values that’s only held back by some localisation issues but excels in atmosphere and one that will remain with you for a long time.

A great Visual Novel that comes with a well written story and beautiful art direction.

Root Letter has great visuals, an intriguing story and well paced chapters. The interactivity may only give the illusion of player control but it’s a welcome distraction.

An interesting visual novel game which gains interest with the next chapter to know what will happen next to unravel Aya Fumino’s mystery. Its setting in the city of Matsue, in Shimane prefecture, and the variety of endings makes this game an interesting option in its genre.

Those looking for a Phoenix Wright-style experience on PS4 should look no further – Root Letter scratches the itch whilst also presenting a more compelling and mature story.

Root Letter is an intriguing title with an interesting story that manages to stay engaging throughout. Although a couple of weird Japanisms occasionally get in the way, I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys visual novels and detective games.

Root Letter is a strange visual novel, but one that keeps players interested throughout. If you feel you’ve received a rather lackluster ending then that’s cause to play through four more times to uncover the final truth. Unfortunately, the game doesn’t make expedite subsequent playthroughs. Still, there is a lot to like about a visual novel focused on the lives of thirty somethings rather than samey love-struck teenagers.

It's a shame that Root Letter has such abysmal writing, because there truly are some fascinating plot threads to unravel throughout this brief journey.

Less-discerning players with a tolerance for bad localizations, or maybe Matsue residents, will find a pleasant diversion in Root Letter, but for everyone else, it's difficult to recommend, especially at its current price tag.

A unique style and intriguing storyline unfortunately aren't enough to make up for the title's lack of interactivity and overall boring gameplay.

Root Letter has many interesting ideas, but they never fully gel together at the end.

Proving too slow-paced and repetitive for its own good, Root Letter fails to seal the deal on its promising set-up, though it may yet pave the way for improved Kadokawa mysteries to come.

Even the most hardcore visual novel fan is going to be hard pressed to find enjoyment with this unsatisfying mystery adventure.