Summary
ANONYMOUS;CODE is a thrilling addition to the Science Adventure Series, delivering a captivating narrative filled with mystery, suspense, and a touch of fantasy. With its inclusion of English voice acting and innovative gameplay mechanics, it’s a game that offers both long-time fans of the series and newcomers an unforgettable and immersive experience.
Developer – Mages Inc.
Publisher – Spike Chunsoft Co., Ltd.
Platforms – PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, PC (Reviewed)
Review copy given by Publisher
ANONYMOUS;CODE is a visual novel where cooperation between you, the Player, and Pollon is the key to success. This highly anticipated sequel to the renowned Science Adventure Series, featuring an original narrative crafted by Chiyomaru Shikura of MAGES., adheres faithfully to the series’ hallmark concept of “99% science and 1% fantasy.” With a gripping science fiction suspense storyline that deftly integrates real-world scientific events into its fabric, ANONYMOUS;CODE delivers an immersive experience like no other.
Spanning across various forms of media, including novels, manga, anime, and games, the Science Adventure Series has consistently impressed fans with its intricate narratives and mind-bending plots. Games such as CHAOS;HEAD, STEINS;GATE, ROBOTICS;NOTES, and CHAOS;CHILD have delighted players with their intricate narratives, and now ANONYMOUS;CODE emerges as the latest addition to this esteemed lineage.
Set in the futuristic backdrop of 2037 Tokyo, the game introduces us to Pollon Takaoka and his best friend Cross Yumikawa, who make their living as professional hackers in a world still reeling from the “Sad Morning” disaster of February 6th, 2036. The narrative kicks into gear when Pollon makes an inexplicable declaration to “elope,” despite being single, and encounters the enigmatic Momo in an unlikely place. This encounter sparks a chain of events as mysterious assailants pursue Momo, thrusting Pollon into a world of danger and intrigue.
One of the most notable features of ANONYMOUS;CODE is its groundbreaking inclusion of both English and Japanese voice options. Unlike its predecessors that featured Japanese voices exclusively, this game offers players the choice to immerse themselves in the story with the language they prefer. Spike Chunsoft, Inc. has assembled a stellar cast of voice talent, including Max Mittelman, Anairis Quiñones, and Y. Chang, ensuring that players are treated to a top-tier audio experience.
The narrative is layered with complexity as it introduces various intriguing elements, including the genius hacker “Cicada 3301,” who orchestrates a series of challenging “Quests,” the enigmatic “Gai Institute” that reactivates a frozen earth simulation, and the secretive agents of the Vatican’s “Holy Office 513.” Pollon becomes entangled in a web of plots and conspiracies, leading to a pivotal event that has the potential to reshape the world as we know it.
At the heart of ANONYMOUS;CODE lies the innovative gameplay concept of “Saving and Loading.” This mechanic emphasizes cooperation between the player and Pollon, where your choices and Pollon’s actions determine the story’s outcome. Advising Pollon on when to Save and Load is key to achieving success, making each playthrough a unique and immersive experience.
The “Hacking Trigger Command” system further enhances player engagement by transforming the narrative into an interactive scenario-branching adventure. Instead of following a linear storyline, players must use their judgment and the Hacking Trigger command to guide Pollon in making critical decisions that alter the course of the future. This dynamic approach to storytelling keeps players on the edge of their seats, as every choice they make can have far-reaching consequences.
In conclusion, ANONYMOUS;CODE is a thrilling addition to the Science Adventure Series, delivering a captivating narrative filled with mystery, suspense, and a touch of fantasy. With its inclusion of English voice acting and innovative gameplay mechanics, it’s a game that offers both long-time fans of the series and newcomers an unforgettable and immersive experience.
