AI: The Somnium Files

 Switch
User Score
8.8

Generally favorable reviews- based on 603 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 527 out of 603
  2. Mixed: 20 out of 603
  3. Negative: 56 out of 603
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  1. HappyEndInc
    Feb 8, 2020
    10
    Take into account the game has been review-bombed. Before that it used to be a 8.2.

    Whether you enjoy AI depends on whether or not you usually like visual novels. Ushikoshi's style is usually hit or miss - if you dislike it, you'll have an okay experience with the game. If you like it, as I do, then you are in for a hell of a treat. I absolutely loved AI, from the characters, the music,    Take into account the game has been review-bombed. Before that it used to be a 8.2.

    Whether you enjoy AI depends on whether or not you usually like visual novels. Ushikoshi's style is usually hit or miss - if you dislike it, you'll have an okay experience with the game.

    If you like it, as I do, then you are in for a hell of a treat. I absolutely loved AI, from the characters, the music, everything. My only issue is the first moments, as it starts slowly.

    Otherwise, prepare yourself for this hidden gem.    … Expand
  2. Lesh0
    Dec 27, 2019
    10
    This was my first VN game and i really got into this genre thanks to this game. The Characters the story 10/10 the twist is mindblowing atleast for me its a must in my opinion. And if people have never played VN games before this will be the best entry of newcommers hands down GOTY for me. WELL DONE.
  3. StarsWitch
    Feb 10, 2020
    9
    this game is absolutely amazing, the story is so good and the mystery is so engaging, give it a try!
  4. Pedrohso
    Oct 21, 2019
    10
    Another riveting game by Uchikoshi. It has a captivating story perfect for fans of his other games. It made me laugh, cry and be intrigued by the characters and the plot until the very end. I would recommend it for anyone who likes the visual novel genre.
  5. Real1Gaming
    Feb 8, 2020
    10
    This is the pinnacle of VN mystery games. Probably the best one of its kind I've ever played. I do not know why it is getting review bombed but please ignore it.
  6. animeUwU
    Dec 22, 2019
    10
    This game is amazing. Beautiful Visual Novel with a compelling story. The story can be quite heavy and dark at times, but is also very light and easy to follow.
    Great characters that you can easily relate to.
  7. valenti
    Feb 8, 2020
    10
    Amazing game and easily one of the highlights of 2019. One of the best Visual Novels I've ever played.
  8. cecechan
    Feb 8, 2020
    10
    This game took me by surprise. I was not expecting to fall in love with the characters, plot, and gameplay. The pacing was spot on and didn't feel like it was dragging. The humor was outstanding and one of the best Ive come across in a visual novel. After playing AI, I tried playing the nonary game series but I couldn't get into it. The pacing was too slow and the story wasn't asThis game took me by surprise. I was not expecting to fall in love with the characters, plot, and gameplay. The pacing was spot on and didn't feel like it was dragging. The humor was outstanding and one of the best Ive come across in a visual novel. After playing AI, I tried playing the nonary game series but I couldn't get into it. The pacing was too slow and the story wasn't as captivating. Honestly, I think AI ruined other visual novels for me because it was that good. I look forward to seeing what else Spike Chunsoft comes up with and look forward to (hopefully) more visual novels from them.… Expand
  9. NenJutsu
    Sep 17, 2019
    10
    Uchikoshi has done it again. Created one of the most captivating and well written stories in gaming including bad sex jokes. Zero Escape was an instant cult classic and super narratives in gaming. Ai The Somnium Files is an amazing follow up.


    the GOTY that will never get the attention or buzz it deserves
  10. doghairdontcare
    Nov 25, 2019
    9
    This game is typical of Uchikoshi -- a mix of scifi + mystery and some sexual innuendos littered about. I really appreciated the character development in this series, although the plot wasn't as immersive as 999. The sound track is quite enjoyable and relaxing, and the voice acting was actually really good.

    As much as I liked the game and played it through to the end, I think the    This game is typical of Uchikoshi -- a mix of scifi + mystery and some sexual innuendos littered about. I really appreciated the character development in this series, although the plot wasn't as immersive as 999. The sound track is quite enjoyable and relaxing, and the voice acting was actually really good.

    As much as I liked the game and played it through to the end, I think the interactive "somnium" puzzle portions of the game weren't so enjoyable. The time limits put a lot of stress in rushing through trying to find the right path (which often require obscure logic), detracting you from the environment. It's a shame, because some of the environments are quite interesting since you're exploring a dream in the somnium. While at first it felt like it was a cheap way to add a challenge to the game, it works out with the plot.    … Expand
  11. devillili
    Feb 11, 2020
    10
    An excellent game. Probably my game of the year.Best ost , best suspense,best everything
  12. vengeancemeow
    Feb 5, 2020
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Great game. Compelling story with fun puzzle mechanics and a nice plot twist at the end.… Expand
  13. MarkDream35
    Feb 8, 2020
    9
    I absolutely adore this game. All the characters are very well written, and the plot is filled with twists and turns that made me not stop playing until I finished it. There are a few small performance issues on Switch, but nothing major. Highly recommend to anyone who likes point and click games, or Kotaro Uchikoshi. I bought the limited edition, and I'm glad I got it.
  14. Sigerson317
    Feb 10, 2020
    10
    Uchikoshi’s games are always unique in their ideas and execution with a blend of science fiction tropes and solid writing. Fantastic work.
  15. BaconBiscuit
    Feb 10, 2020
    10
    This game was awesome, hilarious, and best of all: super weird. It has an incredible story but never takes itself too seriously. The fact that people are review bombing this fantastic game is incredibly disheartening. Don't listen to the bad reviews, check this game out! It will definitely be worth your time.
  16. Kayender
    Feb 8, 2020
    9
    I loved this game. There was a lot of sex jokes but I didnt really mind it too much. It was exactly what I was looking for in terms of mind bending and the mystery was so fun to figure out. After a certain reveal I stopped playing so I could figure out how everything had played out in the other timelines. I love figuring it all out from there.
  17. lenz
    Feb 10, 2020
    9
    AI: The Somnium Files is another great game from Kotaro Uchikoshi, writer of the Zero Escape series. This game has a lighter tone than Zero Escape and never takes itself too seriously, but you will get glimpses of the excellent psychological thriller elements that Uchikoshi is so great at portraying. This is not a gameplay focused game, just a really gripping visual novel that fans of theAI: The Somnium Files is another great game from Kotaro Uchikoshi, writer of the Zero Escape series. This game has a lighter tone than Zero Escape and never takes itself too seriously, but you will get glimpses of the excellent psychological thriller elements that Uchikoshi is so great at portraying. This is not a gameplay focused game, just a really gripping visual novel that fans of the genre should give a chance. I Imagine this game will touch many hearts if it becomes more appreciated.… Expand
  18. stellamarine
    Feb 10, 2020
    10
    This was my first Uchikoshi game and I really enjoyed it!! I've got a really terrible attention span and have not finished any game this quickly in a really long time.. I think i'm replaying it a third time? currently.. Played it on a friend's switch for about an hour and got hooked, then debated on price for about a month and i really regret not immediately buying it after honestly.This was my first Uchikoshi game and I really enjoyed it!! I've got a really terrible attention span and have not finished any game this quickly in a really long time.. I think i'm replaying it a third time? currently.. Played it on a friend's switch for about an hour and got hooked, then debated on price for about a month and i really regret not immediately buying it after honestly. Finished in a week? I'm so glad this game was suggested to me.… Expand
  19. loveshockers
    Feb 10, 2020
    10
    Uchikoshi continues to gift us with incredibly fun thrillers featuring lovable characters and tension that keeps you going pushing through the story late into the night. Great for fans of his other works (Zero Escape and the Infinity series) and for new fans alike, especially if you're into mystery, crime, and puzzle solving. Can't wait to see more from Mr. Uchikoshi
  20. LunarRose
    Feb 10, 2020
    10
    This game was a great time. I started it and fell in love with it. I admit that it's not for everyone but that's ok.
  21. Drlemons
    Feb 10, 2020
    10
    This is a very genuine and funny game. It has a great mystery, interesting branching paths, and cool characters. It didn't deserve to be review bombed.
  22. GfJohn
    Feb 10, 2020
    10
    Fun mistery game with amazing characters. The puzzles are a bit of trial and error but they are still fun. Music is very good.
  23. Melloo
    Feb 10, 2020
    10
    Another fantastic game by the Zero Escape devs. Uchikoshi continues to knock it out of the park in writing, storytelling, and gameplay, might be one of his best yet. Highly reccomended.
  24. reksigh
    Feb 10, 2020
    10
    Uchikoshi is my favorite developer, hands down. I went into AI: Somnium Files expecting great things, and was not disappointed. The characters are extremely lovable, the humor had me on the floor at times, and the suspense had me on the edge of my seat until the very end. This is my favorite serial killer story, and finishing it left me tearful and telling everyone I knew to play it.
  25. epigz
    Feb 10, 2020
    10
    AI is a fantastic story, with a lovable cast of characters and plot twists that will blow your mind. Any fan of visual novels, mystery, and thrillers will love this game.
  26. shoyz
    Feb 10, 2020
    10
    Trademark Uchokoshi storytelling with fantastic characterization and finally a decent enough budget to fully realize the vision.
  27. Acklow
    Feb 10, 2020
    10
    This game got review bombed recently by one person. The game, is actually quite good. I would rate it an 8, but for the sake of helping out the aggregate score, I'm rating it a 10.
  28. Hyliabook
    Feb 10, 2020
    10
    An amazing work from the wonderful author Kotaro Uchikoshi (Zero Escape series)! If you're a fan of Zero Escape, science fiction, and or philosophy, this is the perfect game for you!
  29. delachiempire
    Feb 11, 2020
    10
    I created an account to help balance out the review bomb from the sad loser.

    Go play Ai: The somnium files. Do it. It's a great game and the developers absolutely deserve the support.
  30. sgch
    Feb 11, 2020
    10
    An awesome visual novel with very high production value. A great plot that kept me guessing the whole way and engaging characters. Great twist too that I really didn't see coming.

    Recommended for fans of Uchikoshi's other games, but also for people who love true crime, sci-fi mysteries and puzzles.
  31. TheProsecutor
    Feb 11, 2020
    10
    Amazing game that hits all the spots media should hit: It's exciting, hilarious, emotional and an absolutely great rollercoaster of expectations, emotions and **** Highly recommended to anyone who doesn't mind reading.
  32. NickLibra
    Feb 11, 2020
    10
    A truly unique experience of a game. Being a huge fan of the Zero Escape series I was a bit sceptical of the narrative of this game but after the first playthrough I realized the depth and work that was put in these characters and plot. Honestly the last 5 hours of the game were absolutely phenomenal and had me at the edge of my seat. Amazing twists! Couldn't recommend it more!
  33. ymzu
    Feb 11, 2020
    10
    Wonderful, interesting story, characters that you'll love from first seconds of gameplay, positive LGBTQ+ representation, one of my best 2019 games
  34. Sakai
    Feb 11, 2020
    10
    Juego genial de un creador genial. Cuando uno piensa que es imposible que algo se acerque en calidad a Zero Escape, AI Somnium Files es de una grandísima calidad.
  35. WeedleSenpai
    Feb 11, 2020
    10
    Easily the best game released in 2019, if not the best game released in the past few years. An excellent find for any fans of the visual novel detective mystery genre. From the mind of the man who brought us the Zero Escape series, fans will see welcome returning elements such as the timeline flowchart, however it does depart from the zero escape formula at times, with pleasing results.Easily the best game released in 2019, if not the best game released in the past few years. An excellent find for any fans of the visual novel detective mystery genre. From the mind of the man who brought us the Zero Escape series, fans will see welcome returning elements such as the timeline flowchart, however it does depart from the zero escape formula at times, with pleasing results. This game is a lot more emotionally charged than zero escape titles ever were, focusing a lot on comedic dialogue, paralleled with some deep and often heart wrenching character development moments. Make no mistake, while this game does seem to focus on emotional impact there is no shortage of clever twists and turns in the narrative, as one would expect from the genre. well… Expand
  36. ParkerDk
    Feb 11, 2020
    10
    So good game.It's better than Zero Escape 999.And the The quality of the game performance has improved a lot.
  37. Pokk_Gon
    Feb 11, 2020
    10
    It's from Kotaro Uchikoshi, and that's is enough for give it a chance. A game that truly deserves more attention.
  38. cassiopeia2020
    Feb 10, 2020
    10
    There's proof via the waybackmachine that this game has been review bombed. Which is idiotic considering how great this game is; in no way does it deserve its artificially low rating. I both played this game and watched twitch streams of it. The engaging story, gripping plot twists, and surprisingly good characters always drew people into it. It's a VN so the gameplay may not be everyone,There's proof via the waybackmachine that this game has been review bombed. Which is idiotic considering how great this game is; in no way does it deserve its artificially low rating. I both played this game and watched twitch streams of it. The engaging story, gripping plot twists, and surprisingly good characters always drew people into it. It's a VN so the gameplay may not be everyone, but the puzzles were enjoyable and contributed much to the overall mystery of the game. I did have some issue with the way too numerous pervy jokes and odd references and humor, but those were small detractors that were vastly outweighed by the game's positives. I loved being surprised at every plot twist and the final twist made perfect sense. Uchikoshi really knows how to put foreshadowing in the right places with few plot holes. And man, the English voice actors were amazing as well!

    Don't believe the low user score which was mostly just bot ratings instead of actual reviews. Someone was clearly butthurt.    … Expand
  39. shedvolans
    Feb 10, 2020
    10
    An absolute masterpiece of a game from the mind of Kotaro Uchikoshi. An extremely well-plotted murder mystery with phenomenal characters (brought to life by equally phenomenal voice talent), incredible music, and an interesting gameplay loop of exploring dreams.

    Also quite possibly one of the funniest yet heartwarming games I've played in a while, with patently absurd humor spread    An absolute masterpiece of a game from the mind of Kotaro Uchikoshi. An extremely well-plotted murder mystery with phenomenal characters (brought to life by equally phenomenal voice talent), incredible music, and an interesting gameplay loop of exploring dreams.

    Also quite possibly one of the funniest yet heartwarming games I've played in a while, with patently absurd humor spread throughout and a genuine sense of sincerity that occasionally goes intentionally full-cheesy because you know what sometimes cheese is the best.

    If you like good murder mysteries and fleshed out characters that can make you cry both from laughter and from feels, sometimes simultaneously, then get this game.    … Expand
  40. Kyuuchan
    Feb 10, 2020
    10
    This game is awesome. The story is very engaging and you can't stop playing. If you liked Nonary Games, this is your game.
  41. Rhizome
    Feb 11, 2020
    10
    A good combination of Adventure elements and visual novel ones with an excellent story that worth your time.
  42. Hotori
    Feb 11, 2020
    9
    I thoroughly enjoyed AI from beginning to the end! It gave enough Zero Escape vibes to satisfy while being a completely different game that was refreshing. It doesn't take itself seriously yet tugged heartstrings and made me shed tears. The story is intriguing enough without being overly convoluted, giving you enough hints to figure things out as you go along before hitting you the fullI thoroughly enjoyed AI from beginning to the end! It gave enough Zero Escape vibes to satisfy while being a completely different game that was refreshing. It doesn't take itself seriously yet tugged heartstrings and made me shed tears. The story is intriguing enough without being overly convoluted, giving you enough hints to figure things out as you go along before hitting you the full reveal. (With shout outs to the zero escape series too!) The switch version can be pretty laggy at times which sometimes makes serious scenes feel slightly anticlimactic but the story, music and characters more than makes up for it. I enjoyed the amount of details that goes into "optional" things (e.g conversations that are optionals, different dialogues when investigating the same items, etc). The characters really made me care for them in a way that made me feel lonely when I finished the game. It is a great and very satisfying game to play!… Expand
  43. pauliinun
    Feb 11, 2020
    10
    Amazing story full of great characters! Only a few games have made me cry and AI is one of them
  44. Zippoiii
    Feb 11, 2020
    10
    It's a great game, especially if you like mystery novels (PS. Review bombers can go suck a d*ck)
  45. TiffanyWitcher
    Feb 11, 2020
    10
    What more can I say about this game. It had a great story, voice acting was amazing and the characters were loveable. I enjoyed streaming this game on my channel a few months back and would do it again. As a fan of the Zero Escape series I can't ask for title from the development team.
  46. any13th
    Feb 11, 2020
    9
    The game is being review bombed.
    Read the critics reviews.
    The game is great.
  47. Cantonbrowncoat
    Feb 11, 2020
    10
    Uchikoshi is a genius and does not deserve to be review bombed.
    This game is a masterpiece
  48. aceofwar20
    Feb 11, 2020
    10
    Uchikoshi's games are always a treat and AI: Somnium Files is no exception. The story was a gripping mystery from start to finish characters are very well written and I'm a huge fan of the character designer from his work with the fire emblem series.
  49. flojo1797
    Feb 11, 2020
    10
    AI: The Somnium Files is one of the best visual novels i've ever played.
    It easily holds up to the zero escape series.
    The characters are a lot more complex than the review bombers say (because most of them just copy pasted one review).
  50. franklinEB
    Feb 11, 2020
    10
    A genuinely fun and moving detective thriller from the folks who brought you Zero Escape.
  51. Kevandre
    Feb 11, 2020
    9
    I'm a big fan of Uchikoshi's previous work, so when I saw this game coming out I was chomping at the bit to get it. And believe me, I was not disappointed. A truly incredible story and characters throughout.

    Basically my only complaint is that it's not the most well optimized game for switch. It is still perfectly playable, but I'd recommend it for steam or ps4 first if those are options    I'm a big fan of Uchikoshi's previous work, so when I saw this game coming out I was chomping at the bit to get it. And believe me, I was not disappointed. A truly incredible story and characters throughout.

    Basically my only complaint is that it's not the most well optimized game for switch. It is still perfectly playable, but I'd recommend it for steam or ps4 first if those are options for you. But absolutely pick the game up if you can. You won't regret it.    … Expand
  52. Defenestration
    Feb 11, 2020
    10
    A great game with an engaging story and beautiful art. Recommend it for anyone wanting some detective games.
  53. Whattawiseguy
    Feb 11, 2020
    10
    The story was so enthralling that I lost sleep to keep playing and see what happened! The gameplay was unique and fun and I love Mizuki so much!
  54. inspectorclarke
    Feb 11, 2020
    8
    As a fan of the zero escape series, I had high hopes for this game and it delivered. The characters are interesting, the crime was solvable while still having lots of twists and turns. The art, in particular, was very good (with the exception of some animations, but I'm a nitpicker). The game kept me guessing until the very end, with fun sequences and interesting mechanics. While sometimesAs a fan of the zero escape series, I had high hopes for this game and it delivered. The characters are interesting, the crime was solvable while still having lots of twists and turns. The art, in particular, was very good (with the exception of some animations, but I'm a nitpicker). The game kept me guessing until the very end, with fun sequences and interesting mechanics. While sometimes the somniums felt purposefully frustrating, they still, in my mind, enhanced the overall experience. My only real issue with the game is how weirdly horny it is sometimes, for no particular reason. I felt like the random references to pornography and the sexualization of some of the characters was really unnecessary and it made me really uncomfortable.… Expand
  55. MattTheAlien
    Feb 11, 2020
    10
    I've been a fan of Uchikoshi's other games for a long time, and this game didn't disappoint! Very polished, captivating story, fun and relatable characters, and a really fresh and interesting puzzle mechanic. If you're a fan of sci-fi/mystery story-driven puzzle games, you should definitely check this game out.
  56. taterboi
    Feb 11, 2020
    10
    Play this and the zero escape series, ignore the negative reviews because this game got review-bombed for some reason that I don't know about.
  57. Yuzu-Bathwater
    Feb 11, 2020
    10
    Probably the best game I played in 2019, a great mystery with a satisfying end. Bless Uchikoshi for he delivers again.
  58. sailorknight
    Feb 18, 2020
    8
    This game has been review bombed AGAIN. Notice the negative scores that happened overnight. AGAIN.
  59. SoupWS
    Feb 9, 2020
    10
    Waaaaaaaah!!! I will reviewbomb this game because I smell bad and nobody loves me!
  60. Maxman1414
    Feb 7, 2020
    10
    I just bought the game last week and the story was just so engrossing. I found myself wanting to play for a quick 30 minutes and finding myself wondering why 6 hours have passed. It's a relatively short game, it only took me ~20 hours to finish the main story and I'm contemplating trying to go back to find all the secrets in the Somnium stages. I loved all the characters and the dialogueI just bought the game last week and the story was just so engrossing. I found myself wanting to play for a quick 30 minutes and finding myself wondering why 6 hours have passed. It's a relatively short game, it only took me ~20 hours to finish the main story and I'm contemplating trying to go back to find all the secrets in the Somnium stages. I loved all the characters and the dialogue written for them, the little spats between the main character Date and his partner Aiba, or the sassy-ness of his daughter-like roommate and the plenty of jokes within the game. The music honestly wasn't very memorable, the only really memorable song was Iris's song "the invincible rainbow arrow" which the singing performance is mediocre at best and at worst cringe worthy, but it grows on to the player by the end of the game. The game looks fantastic graphically however struggles a bit on the switch, there is a lot of frame drops when loading new areas and the game stops for moments to load a video/cutscene every know and then inside dialogue... which occurs fairly often. Additionally, there was a time where the game failed to load the video/cutscene for over 20 minutes, however closing the game fixed the issue, on the brightside the game frequently auto saves and you can skip most of the dialogue fairly easily. If this makes you cautious of the game, I urge you to just buy a different version of the game. I'm certain that the performance issues are unique to the switch and urge you to try the game on a different platform. Because of these performance issues I would probably have rated AI an 8 or 9, but seeing as these issues seem exclusive to the switch... and that someone just review bombed the game... I'll rate the game a 10/10.… Expand
  61. maddiz
    Feb 6, 2020
    10
    I honestly wasn't sure what to expect when I bought this game. I have played the danganronpa games and was looking for a similar experience and I couldn't be happier with ai. The gameplay is interesting and the idea of delving inside someone's mind was a cool concept. But above all else the game shines with its writing and characters the game does have a mix of both a serious and comedicI honestly wasn't sure what to expect when I bought this game. I have played the danganronpa games and was looking for a similar experience and I couldn't be happier with ai. The gameplay is interesting and the idea of delving inside someone's mind was a cool concept. But above all else the game shines with its writing and characters the game does have a mix of both a serious and comedic tone that can at first feel a little strange but, I personally loved it I definitely recommend this game. (Also note that the game has seen a review bomb so I would honestly recommend looking up the steam reviews as they are a lot more honest rather than basing your opinions on the average user score from metacritic.)… Expand
  62. elpsycongruent
    Dec 8, 2019
    9
    This game is the Uchikoshi we all know and love, with stellar voice acting and pretty decent visuals. What more could you ask for?

    Like all of his games, I only wish I could wipe my memory and start over again...
  63. Soeroah
    Feb 10, 2020
    10
    Don't let the review bombing fool you; if you enjoyed the Zero Escape saga, you'll love this game. The only issues on the Switch version are some loading time issues and a bit of stuttery animations later in the game, but not enough to get this kind of negative feedback.

    The story is great, the mystery is enthralling, and while some voice choices are a bit strange the characters are all    Don't let the review bombing fool you; if you enjoyed the Zero Escape saga, you'll love this game. The only issues on the Switch version are some loading time issues and a bit of stuttery animations later in the game, but not enough to get this kind of negative feedback.

    The story is great, the mystery is enthralling, and while some voice choices are a bit strange the characters are all great. The ONLY justification I can assume for such a sudden burst of negative reviews is that some dark corner of the internet got wind of the fact that the game makes a pro-LGBT statement, and the snowflakes can't take that lying down.    … Expand
  64. jax-nero
    Feb 15, 2020
    10
    Surprised at every single turn glad I gave this game a chance. Its needs more praise.
  65. WolfStark
    Feb 11, 2020
    10
    It took me roughly 35 hours to beat AI: The Somnium Files and it happened with tears in my eyes. And I mean that in a positive way. I see it as an evolution in terms of VNs. Not one without flaws but definitely a step forward.

    I wasn't too sure how this game turned out, before playing it myself. The ARG and viral marketing with A-Set aka Tesa and her Youtube channel as well as Twitter    It took me roughly 35 hours to beat AI: The Somnium Files and it happened with tears in my eyes. And I mean that in a positive way. I see it as an evolution in terms of VNs. Not one without flaws but definitely a step forward.

    I wasn't too sure how this game turned out, before playing it myself. The ARG and viral marketing with A-Set aka Tesa and her Youtube channel as well as Twitter pages where excellent, yet there wasn't much information about the actual main character Date and his partner Aiba. So I dived into the game without any expectations. Where Kotaro Uchikoshis last game, the finale of the Zero Escape Saga "Zero Time Dilemma" felt rather depressing and left me unsatisfied with many questions unanswered, AI made it pretty clear that it is different on many levels.

    This time around we aren't trapped in a deadly game, instead we investigate a murder case. The victim being an old friend of us and the mother of a child, we took to us a few years ago. We are Date Kaname, a man who lost his memory six years ago and our companion is our left eye - Aiba. An artifical intelligence with her own personality, who helps us in our investigations. The interactions between the two are pure gold, not just well written but also fun. Both characters are fast to grow on ones heart. AI is a rollercoaster of feelings but light hearted in it's core, despite the sometimes gruesome murders.

    Gameplaywise it's similar to Zero Escape. AI alternates between sections where we talk with other characters and where we can take a look at everything in our locations like in a classic adventure and the Somnium section where we dive in someones dream to get closer to the truth. There we are controlling Aiba under a 6 minute time limit and interact with the environment to unlock the different mental locks of a person. I.e. The interactions cost time but often give a bonus like "1/10" which reduces the time used for the next interaction by 1/10. So activating a light switch that would usually take 10 seconds from our 6 minute time limit would now just take 1 second.
    The Somniums are all rather different, sometimes they are pretty creative, sometimes dull, sometimes you excactely know what to do, sometimes it's trial and error. The error though can be a lot of fun.

    So what did I mean by evolution? Virtues Last Reward was the first time that an Uchikoshi-game used 3D but it didn't changed anything. The VN was still as stiff and static as before, making it appear as if the decision was just to save money. It became better with Zero Time Dilemma but with AI it is not just looking decent, it also contributes to the game. Walking around in the Somnium, having cutscenes and action sequences with different angles and most importantly, being able to look around during the talking sections. The characters are sitting or standing, moving around and changing their expression depending on what is said. Sure, it's not new having different expressions but it's pretty fun talking to a character and suddenly you can see another one changing to a shocked expression and gesturing innocently.

    The game is incredibly fluid, looking around clicking on things, talking, fasting forward or taking a different route (which are really different and don't feature annoying repetition). AI is setting a bar here in comfort.

    Of course there are flaws though:
    - the graphics and animation are just adequate, even though the characters look pretty good
    - I had some crashes, not too bad since the auto save is pretty good but still, shouldn't happen
    - there are some instances so over the top where less would have been more
    - where Zero Escape had a very interesting twist and explanation for the different routes, AI is lacking that
    - sometimes trial and error in the Somniums and a time limit, that also limits the time to interact in the dream worlds

    Personally I didn't mind the flaws really. Yes the game does not feature such extreme twists like the past Uchikoshi works but for over thirty hours I still had a ton of questions. The english dub is really, REALLY good (!), the whole concept of investigating in dream worlds is cool, the writing is great and the characters fantastic, I can recommend AI: The Somnium Files with all my heart to anyone who likes Visual Novels.    … Expand
  66. Pikachu345
    Feb 18, 2020
    10
    To the person review bombing this game. **** you right up the ass. I hope you kill yourself one day.
  67. Daniel_x2
    Nov 12, 2019
    10
    the games is amazing, tjeplot, the carachter, the amazin gameplay & all the diferentess time lines. I really love this game playin in protable mode. An excellente game. For me one of the bes of this year
  68. velvetReveries
    Feb 13, 2020
    10
    This game is full of heart, soul, and visual novel spirit. Please give this wonderful game a try. Playing this game is like watching a fireworks display. Glimmering, shining, beautiful fireworks...

    In all seriousness, there was not a single unlikable character. The designs of the characters are amazing, the story is gripping, and the game has the perfect balance between levity and    This game is full of heart, soul, and visual novel spirit. Please give this wonderful game a try. Playing this game is like watching a fireworks display. Glimmering, shining, beautiful fireworks...

    In all seriousness, there was not a single unlikable character. The designs of the characters are amazing, the story is gripping, and the game has the perfect balance between levity and dramatic tension. You will not regret purchasing this game. Plus, the game has a free demo on the Switch store, so you can try before you buy!    … Expand
  69. scottxkx
    Feb 15, 2020
    10
    A worthwhile story game experience.
    The developers' strength is in weaving together perspectives and stories of its' characters together in a plot-twisting manner that leaves the player wanting to explore every possibility the universe has to offer.
    I personally don't play many console games anymore, and I really enjoy my personal, single-player experiences. This game is the only    A worthwhile story game experience.
    The developers' strength is in weaving together perspectives and stories of its' characters together in a plot-twisting manner that leaves the player wanting to explore every possibility the universe has to offer.
    I personally don't play many console games anymore, and I really enjoy my personal, single-player experiences.
    This game is the only console game I played, as well as completed, and achieved a 100% completion for in all of 2019 (probably last couple of years now I think about it).
    Worth it indeed.
    Cheers.    … Expand
  70. WeissSchnee
    Feb 13, 2020
    10
    Ai: The Somnium Files is easily one of the best Visual Novels out there, really recommended game that proves how Uchikoshi is one of the best story tellers in the industry.
  71. MarcosMWL
    Feb 13, 2020
    10
    A great game overall. Funny, interesting and engaging all the way through with great and very real characters who also manage to be fun and complement the story
  72. kinoest
    Feb 11, 2020
    9
    I played this game on release and really enjoyed it, it was by far one of the most engaging visual novel type of games I've played in years, and after I played it I went on a long binge of replaying some other games it reminded me of. This game really is genre defining. I recently heard that someone was review bombing the scores so I figured now was the perfect time to go come back andI played this game on release and really enjoyed it, it was by far one of the most engaging visual novel type of games I've played in years, and after I played it I went on a long binge of replaying some other games it reminded me of. This game really is genre defining. I recently heard that someone was review bombing the scores so I figured now was the perfect time to go come back and give it my review.… Expand
  73. Skittycat
    Feb 11, 2020
    10
    Really like the character and stories. The plot is amazing, well written and unexpected, just like the casual Kotaro Uchikoshi. Sensei usually focus on plot but not too much of the interaction of characters but in this game I can feel that his game did improve.
  74. aoikurashiki
    Feb 13, 2020
    9
    I have so much to say about this game but I’m gonna try to keep this as short as possible. First of all, I’m a huge Zero Escape fan and the ZE series has been hands down my absolute favorite video game for the past 3-4 years. No game or series or general media could bring me to as much enjoyment and emotion I felt while playing and finishing ZE or even come close to being considered myI have so much to say about this game but I’m gonna try to keep this as short as possible. First of all, I’m a huge Zero Escape fan and the ZE series has been hands down my absolute favorite video game for the past 3-4 years. No game or series or general media could bring me to as much enjoyment and emotion I felt while playing and finishing ZE or even come close to being considered my favorite. But this game totally changed that. Not only did it bring me more enjoyment and feelings than ZE, but in my opinion? Was written even better than ZE. You can definitely tell Uchikoshi learned from his previous projects and a really amazing team was brought together for this game. It has so many amazing characters. I even found myself taking a liking to Ota! I did take a point off because although this game has very strong pro-LGBT dialogue, I feel like the character representation could be way better. I wish Mama hadn’t been a caricature of a trans woman. Not to mention the ableism we see later in the game. That is definitely something that needs to be improved. Even so, it’s a definite must play. It really gets you thinking. I’d say this is one of those games you never forget. I know I won’t be going a day without thinking of it for a long time.… Expand
  75. brandenjohnson
    Feb 13, 2020
    10
    My expectations were blown away. I knew the developer had made some compelling games in the past (the Zero Escape series in particular), but I wasn't prepared for how intensely A.I. captivated me. A+ storytelling and such a unique setup.
  76. Roxyn
    Feb 13, 2020
    10
    Truly the embodiment of love, this game may be what you need if you are not in a great stage of your life.
  77. Onda_In_Space
    Feb 14, 2020
    9
    Ai: The Somnium Files has heart — and lots of it. From its carefully crafted plot to its stellar voice acting, this game's best elements set a new standard for the visual novel genre.

    However, BE WARNED: If you're looking for a puzzle-based game similar to the Nonary Games trilogy, this isn't it. The "puzzle segments" in this game are more rooted in exploration than heavy logic — which    Ai: The Somnium Files has heart — and lots of it. From its carefully crafted plot to its stellar voice acting, this game's best elements set a new standard for the visual novel genre.

    However, BE WARNED: If you're looking for a puzzle-based game similar to the Nonary Games trilogy, this isn't it. The "puzzle segments" in this game are more rooted in exploration than heavy logic — which is charming and fun in it's own way.

    Pros:

    -Gorgeous art style
    -Smart and engaging plot
    -Captivating characters
    -Lively humor
    -Solid UI
    -Raises the bar for English "anime" voice acting
    -Amazing soundtrack

    Cons:

    - *Passable-but-could-be-better* port to the Nintendo Switch's hardware — which isn't a huge issue considering how little frame dips happen.
    - During later parts of the game, the characters do lengthy recaps of the mystery's more complicated plot points to help clarify things. These recaps are extremely useful for players that don't have the time to play the game in long bursts — but for those looking to breeze through it in two or three days it risks taking you out of the moment.

    Give this gem a shot. You won't regret it.    … Expand
  78. Agnabright
    Feb 17, 2020
    10
    The absolute best characters I have ever seen in a video game along with the greatest story. Not too much gameplay in it, but it completely makes up for it.
  79. Smeshy
    Feb 17, 2020
    10
    Just a great visual interactive novel mystery game all around with fun 3rd person escape the room puzzle types of portions in the game. Definitely recommend.
  80. Annapaw
    Feb 18, 2020
    10
    This game review bombed due to an statement that was simply LGBTQ+ positive, so i'll be here writing my two cents as part of the LGBTQ's
  81. Peter_Ray
    Feb 18, 2020
    10
    So it seems that the Dio cult has taken in another member into it's ranks. This is bad! The Yoosung Epidemic is Spreading!
    We must fight back and counter against this rising oppression of Tyrannical Pheeshy behavior, and reclaim our beloved work of Dear Sir Uchikoshi Sensei and his team's Hard and Toil!
    Go Forth Electabuzz!! RECLAIM US GLORY!!!
  82. MaximMillennia
    Sep 12, 2022
    10
    A game that can make me genuinely laugh my ass off must be a good one. And it is! Obscurity, eccentricity, degeneracy. Everything I need and like in my games when I need to cool off my brain during the day.
  83. catsi
    Jul 6, 2020
    10
    A wonderful cast of characters and a story that leaves you guessing up until the moment of truth, where the way everything comes together will make your head spin. I adored every moment of this game, and I'm going to be thinking about it for a very long time.
  84. Bakuganfan69420
    Dec 15, 2021
    9
    Huh? What was that? No you! Just let me have this!
    oh~ sorry, I was talking to my eye ball girl friend. Yeah, haha, we've been goin steady for like 23 hours now, (cuz thats about how long it took me to beat this game fyi). But, I do consider myself a 'professional' game reviewee, so ill try to stay on track! No babe, Im just writing a review! haha sorry about that!
    Anyway! This game is    Huh? What was that? No you! Just let me have this!
    oh~ sorry, I was talking to my eye ball girl friend. Yeah, haha, we've been goin steady for like 23 hours now, (cuz thats about how long it took me to beat this game fyi). But, I do consider myself a 'professional' game reviewee, so ill try to stay on track! No babe, Im just writing a review! haha sorry about that!
    Anyway! This game is super dee duper good! Wow! Im so thankful that my good pal borrowed this to me! Mostly cuz the game was really fun! But also, so I didnt have to pay for it. (You know how switch games are! I mean can you believe Nintendo? Its like a bigillion years old, and its probably like $60 still! ((Which, after playing, I think is a reasonable price!)) Disclaimer: I havent actually looked up its current price. Im just assuming, so dont flame me on Tw!tter!)
    Anyway! I was Hop Hop Hoppy Happy to play through this game! A genuine culinary delight! *slurp noise* (Almost as good as that catfish I had in Nawleans)
    Anyway! The story is super good! I wasnt sure what to expect, but man, like a piping hot $5.99 two topping dominos medium pizza, it most certainly delivers! The characters are great! This game would actually be a Bakuganfan69420 first with a 10/10 if not for that bleh ending. Speaking of the ending, [SPOILERS AHEAD!!!!!!!!!!!!!] that dance sequence might have made me laugh so hard that I..... uhhhh nevermind.
    Anyway! Best girl was Breets! *Kreygasm* (Thats the nickname my chat came up with for that SMOKIN' secretary! Aw yeah!) That ending where we take her to wherever we took her, (I forgot the name, someone look it up for me and write it in the comment section. Also dont forget to subscribe and like this review and click that bell for more Bakuganfan69420 reviews in the future!)
    Kaniza dude! What a chad! Hes my best friend! Kaniza dude!
    The gameplay was pretty good! lots of different aspects to the dreams really made this game shine like an expensive, beautiful, Christmas tree topper! (Happy Christmas Everyone! *hype emoji*) I particularly enjoyed that sweet Shovelforge one! With the dancin, and the singin! INVINCIBLE RAINBOW **** nice!
    Anyway! To conclude, This game is very good! Super fun! Lots of bright colors! The story is engaging and I recommend this to everyone who owns a Nintendo Switch! Ill bet it even looks nicer on the OLED model! (I couldnt tell ya, cuz Im not fortunate enough to own one of those but hey Christmas is riiiiight around the corner! teehee!)
    Anyway! Thats about all I have for this game! Definitely give it a go! Even if it is still $60! Again I havent looked it up to confirm the price, but its defs worth it at that price! Ill be getting the squeequal when it comes out next year! 9/10, I probably wont play it again but I wish I could lose my memories of the game in a somnium scan (activate!) so I could relive this game in all its glory!    … Expand
  85. peropify
    Sep 18, 2019
    9
    I went in with high expectations, and for the most part I wasn't disappointed. The story is intriguing, the gameplay is unique in a way that works. I was also pleasantly surprised by the humour, which I thought could be corny at times in previous titles. The game is beautiful, and I'm a fan of the art style and game engine. The only thing that sort of bothered me was that a few instancesI went in with high expectations, and for the most part I wasn't disappointed. The story is intriguing, the gameplay is unique in a way that works. I was also pleasantly surprised by the humour, which I thought could be corny at times in previous titles. The game is beautiful, and I'm a fan of the art style and game engine. The only thing that sort of bothered me was that a few instances it felt like a low budget game, while at others it felt like a triple A game. Same with the music/sound - it was hit or miss, but it grows on you. Once you look past its minor deficiences though, this game truly is a masterpiece for fans of visual novel/point and click games.… Expand
  86. breel
    Sep 29, 2019
    10
    I’m saying it ,kotaro did it again and you must buy this! For me it’s just a MASTERPIECE!
  87. tantei
    Sep 25, 2019
    10
    I am 10 hours in and I can say uchikoshi still got. This game is a lot more humerous and has more sexual references then the zero escape series. He can still write things that will creap you out. And oh boy can he make you cry when he wants to
  88. lazycomplife
    Feb 13, 2020
    10
    Wonderful story with great writing & excellent characters. Kotaro Uchikoshi is the best video game writer, hands down.
  89. Marluxion
    Feb 11, 2020
    10
    Excellent game, improves on the zero escape formula. Memorable cast of characters and excellent writing.
  90. Keeganf1
    Feb 13, 2020
    10
    Absolutley awesome game. Very tight, compelling story with strong characters and innovative storytelling mechanics. Some animations are pretty wonky but the strong writing makes up for it. It's a must play for fans of dark sci-fi.
  91. Xerostray
    Feb 18, 2020
    10
    This is an excellent game with a very deep and well written story. It did a great job keeping me engaged, the characters are all written in such a way that the can be related to, even though there are some crazy over the top moments which serve as comic relief when there are crimes and mysteries to solve. If you play through all the paths to get the full story, you're really in for anThis is an excellent game with a very deep and well written story. It did a great job keeping me engaged, the characters are all written in such a way that the can be related to, even though there are some crazy over the top moments which serve as comic relief when there are crimes and mysteries to solve. If you play through all the paths to get the full story, you're really in for an experience. The game is pretty long, I'd honestly compare it to an interactive book, but the game is fully voiced over so its almost like watching a crime show on tv. Fingers crossed for a sequel or another game that expands on this kind of concept because its honestly a work of art. I'm giving this game an actual rating of 8.5 but because of false review bombs i'll give it a 10 to help even out the score.… Expand
  92. Tyko
    Sep 28, 2019
    10
    From start to finish this game is a masterpiece. The amount of care and planing and writing and design that went into this game is incredible.
  93. Undisputedera0
    Jan 17, 2020
    10
    Hmmm it's hard to explain this game. If you don't enjoy VN's and QTE then this game isn't for you. If you can look pass that then you have a game that has some many routes and a great story. To get the actual end you've got to go down I believe 6-7 routes. You never have to go back to the start to do each one either which is handy. Honestly if you enjoy horror and a great mystery with manyHmmm it's hard to explain this game. If you don't enjoy VN's and QTE then this game isn't for you. If you can look pass that then you have a game that has some many routes and a great story. To get the actual end you've got to go down I believe 6-7 routes. You never have to go back to the start to do each one either which is handy. Honestly if you enjoy horror and a great mystery with many twists then play this game. Damn emotional as well.… Expand
  94. Frodomar2002
    Feb 17, 2020
    0
    I never played the original but even I know this one is no good. The controls are confusing and inconsistencies and the gameplay is terrible. Avoid
  95. Hackattaque
    Jul 12, 2022
    4
    New to the anime-style ‘visual novel’ genre? This game really might not be for you. Watch some Let’s Plays or wait for a sale to try it out. The universal acclaim does not tell the whole story.

    The premise for AI is intriguing: You play as a futuristic cop with an artificial intelligence in his eye socket who is called in to investigate a murder. But this is a ‘visual novel’ game, meaning    New to the anime-style ‘visual novel’ genre? This game really might not be for you. Watch some Let’s Plays or wait for a sale to try it out. The universal acclaim does not tell the whole story.

    The premise for AI is intriguing: You play as a futuristic cop with an artificial intelligence in his eye socket who is called in to investigate a murder. But this is a ‘visual novel’ game, meaning the story isn’t told from A to B — you have to run through it several times to view all the endings.

    This would be fine if the story were entertaining and the puzzles strong, like in ‘999’. But here, there are no puzzles — just a few QTEs and a handful of trial and error dream sequences.

    Which leaves the story. And in my view it’s an utter mess. Instead of sticking with the murder, the game jumps off into all sorts of confusing non sequiturs and plot distractions: parallel universes, double and triple crosses, secrets and hidden pasts and a stream of boring characters.

    At no point do you actually solve a crime: Instead of finding clues you run from location to location and exhaust dialogue options. The dialogue is crushingly dull and the anime tropes so tiresome: High school girls are there to stir adult male loins, erotic mags are thrown to distract gangsters, etc.

    Instead of wanting to find every ending to uncover the full truth behind all these bizarre deaths, resurrections and conspiracies, my first run through left me bored and frustrated. If you aren’t sure what you’re in for, I would steer clear.    … Expand
  96. Phuz
    Nov 3, 2020
    1
    I played the demo of this and there was absolutely nothing in the demo that made me want to play on. The interaction was a bit annoying. I just wanted to know where the story was going, everything felt disjointed and uninteresting. Didn't like the characters and the bit I played all just felt very forced.

    After playing video story based games like Beyond Two Souls and Late Shift etc.    I played the demo of this and there was absolutely nothing in the demo that made me want to play on. The interaction was a bit annoying. I just wanted to know where the story was going, everything felt disjointed and uninteresting. Didn't like the characters and the bit I played all just felt very forced.

    After playing video story based games like Beyond Two Souls and Late Shift etc. Things like this just feel like bargain bin games. I can play ancient games with 8 bit sound and graphics, I don't care as long as there is substance but this had none.

    I played a little bit of a demo of a low graphics game, it might have been called Coffee Shop and I found that to be way more engaging. Even though it was ancient graphics and had a weird thing of making customer's drinks, it actually pulled me in to its world a bit. A.I Somnium was just strange and did nothing to draw me in to its world like Coffee Shop did and man it is so expensive it just can't be justified.

    If it was cheaper (like 50 quid cheaper) I might up the score to a 2, or 3 but £54, someone is having a laugh. No one in their right mind would pay that for this rubbish.    … Expand
  97. Awkylold
    Jul 25, 2020
    6
    Average.

    This game is not a 10/10. All the positive reviews are just there to balance out the negative reviews.
    I had high hopes for this game after Zero Time Dilemma. But the writing and characters fell short.
  98. bighair79
    Dec 19, 2020
    1
    Everything bad about video games. I love adventure puzzle games but this is a poorly written "visual novel" loaded with super sexist language and themes. I wish I could get a refund. Terrible game.
  99. Nintendist
    Jun 29, 2022
    0
    this game has a big lack of content. and u do the same thing over and over with no stop
  100. lucinhagamer
    Aug 26, 2022
    0
    this game is very ugly i hate it so much. this is not a good game. not fun found here
Page:

Awards & Rankings

13
#13 Best Switch Game of 2019
10
#10 Most Discussed Switch Game of 2019

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
86

Generally favorable reviews - based on 13 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 13 out of 13
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 13
  3. Negative: 0 out of 13
  1. Multiplayer.it
    Oct 25, 2021
    83
    AI: The Somnium Files is another brilliant adventure from Kotaro Uchikoshi, that deepens its narrative structure at the price of loosening a bit of its puzzle design. All in all, it's a compelling interactive story that deserves to be played.
    Read full review
  2. Nintendo Force Magazine
    Apr 30, 2020
    85
    After a comparatively slow couple of hours at the start, AI: The Somnium Files takes off and never slows down. [Issue #44 – January/February 2020, p. 74]
  3. GamingTrend
    Dec 31, 2019
    90
    With an endearing, violent, and engaging story, AI: The Somnium Files is an adventure game that fans of the visual novel genre should not miss. With a novel puzzle-solving mechanic and impressive voice performances, this game is a dream come true.
    Read full review
See all critic reviews »