Root Film

 Switch
Metascore
70

Mixed or average reviews - based on 11 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 4 out of 11
  2. Mixed: 7 out of 11
  3. Negative: 0 out of 11
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  1. Hey Poor Player
    May 13, 2021
    90
    If you’re even slightly interested in visual novels or are just a fan of good mysteries in general, your life will only be better for picking up Root Film.
  2. Digitally Downloaded
    Mar 22, 2021
    90
    Root Film tells a wonderfully winding, thrilling mystery in a true Edogawa Ranpo style, but what's more important is that Root Film is a gorgeous visualisation of an often-ignored but deeply valuable part of Japan. If you walk away from this game with a deep desire to see Shimane for yourself, then you've played it the right way.
  3. CD-Action
    Nov 15, 2021
    80
    When it comes to storytelling, Root Film is a gem and a great example of how to evoke anxiety and curiosity using written word and spot-on music. Sadly, the story is linear, but vivid characters and a cool mystery to solve make up for it. [05/2021, p.65]
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  5. Hardcore Gamer
    Apr 5, 2021
    80
    Murder mysteries are a wonderful genre of any medium that have near limitless potential and Root Film is a great entry that fans of other similar visual novels are likely to find enjoyment from. While it may not have a ton in the gameplay department due to focusing much more on the storytelling, it does its job well and the build up to uncovering the criminal in a fun who-done-it moment is worthwhile no matter the case at hand. Titles like these are hard to discuss due to the spoiler nature of murder mysteries, but anyone looking for a new mystery series that’s a mix of wonderful comedy and serious murder drama should check out Root Film.

User Reviews

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User Score
8.0

Generally favorable reviews- based on 4 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 3 out of 4
  2. Mixed: 1 out of 4
  3. Negative: 0 out of 4
  1. Jimbotrain
    Aug 25, 2022
    9
    8.7/10
    The characters are unique and likeable
    The plot is a bit so so for 1st 2 Yagumo chapters but afterwards really excels Very similar    8.7/10
    The characters are unique and likeable
    The plot is a bit so so for 1st 2 Yagumo chapters but afterwards really excels
    Very similar to the Ace Attorney investigations in regards to investigating crime scenes and confronting the culprit
    The writing and dialogue translation is for the most part good, just a few grammatical errors
    Lots of twists and turns as well as a excellent mastermind villain
    Pick this one up if you get the chance    … Full Review »
  2. elpsycongruent
    Jan 2, 2022
    8
    Overall, an enjoyable experience. I found the ending a little disappointing- not quite worth all of the build up- but the journey was funOverall, an enjoyable experience. I found the ending a little disappointing- not quite worth all of the build up- but the journey was fun enough to still recommend the game. The characters and their interactions really shine.

    (I actually thought that the best reveal in the game was one completely unconnected to the mysteries themselves: a running gag that turned into a different running gag. It really cracked me up!)    … Full Review »
  3. Doberjohn2
    Apr 24, 2021
    8
    Aside from the top quality visuals, soundtrack and overall art direction, Root Film has an amazing story that gets deeper and darker the moreAside from the top quality visuals, soundtrack and overall art direction, Root Film has an amazing story that gets deeper and darker the more you progress only to serve a climax that is going to blow your mind. Also loved the (huge) cast of characters, each one was very unique and interesting. I personally loved the fact that only Japanese voice overs are available but please keep it mind. Navigation on the map can be tricky sometimes. I also noticed that the subtitles had some typos here and there but nothing biggie to throw you off.… Full Review »
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