Review: MY NEXT LIFE AS A VILLAINESS: ALL ROUTES LEAD TO DOOM! -PIRATES OF THE DISTURBANCE-


Posted on December 23, 2023 by fncwill

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8.5/10

Summary

My Next Life as a Villainess: All Routes Lead to Doom! -Pirates of the Disturbance- masterfully blends the charm of the original series with a captivating new story. The engaging narrative, lovable characters, and strategic decision-making make this title a must-play for fans of the otome genre and enthusiasts of the My Next Life as a Villainess franchise. With its well-crafted storyline and innovative gameplay elements, this installment stands as a testament to the continued success of the series and is sure to leave players eagerly anticipating future adventures in the My Next Life as a Villainess universe.

Developer – IDEA FACTORY

Publisher – IDEA FACTORY INTERNATIONAL / Reef Entertainment

Platforms –  Nintendo Switch (Reviewed)

Review copy given by Developer

My Next Life as a Villainess: All Routes Lead to Doom! -Pirates of the Disturbance- sets sail on a thrilling high-seas adventure, placing the endearing Catarina Claes at the helm in a story that captivates from start to finish. This latest installment not only promises a refreshing take on the otome genre, derived from the popular light novel and anime series, but it goes above and beyond by weaving a narrative that stands out for its storytelling brilliance.

At the heart of the tale is the charismatic and food-loving noble, Catarina Claes, whose escapades take an unexpected turn during what was supposed to be a leisurely spring break cruise with her adopted brother and friends. The tranquility of the journey is shattered when pirates attack, mirroring events from a fanbook’s storyline. This intriguing premise unfolds into a doom-flag-evading romantic comedy that effortlessly blends humor, romance, and a swashbuckling encounter with pirates, providing a unique and immersive storytelling experience.

One of the standout features of this installment is the introduction of a new doom flag, offering a narrative that is both original and captivating. The inclusion of two new characters, Rozy Lind and Silva, seamlessly integrates fresh dynamics into the well-established cast, breathing new life into the My Next Life as a Villainess universe and enhancing the overall depth of the story.

Returning fans will be delighted to see the familiar cast from the original series, providing an opportunity to romance six shipmates, including the intriguing newcomers. Each character is thoughtfully developed, staying true to their personalities from the source material, and the interactions between them contribute to the overall charm of the game.

As players progress through the story, the addition of Memory Scenarios proves to be a delightful journey down memory lane. These episodes, presented from the perspectives of various characters, offer insights into childhood memories and academic life, enriching the narrative and fostering a deeper connection with the characters.

The introduction of decision points adds a layer of complexity to the game, impacting the affection levels of romanceable characters and steering the story in different directions. Love Catches, visual indicators of increased affection levels, provide a tangible representation of progress, enhancing the overall gaming experience. The strategic elements, reminiscent of the light novel and anime, bring depth to decision-making, ensuring that players are engaged on multiple levels.

A standout feature is the inclusion of Strategy Meetings, where players consult different versions of Catarina to determine the best route to take. This mechanic not only injects humor into the game but also aligns seamlessly with the source material, showcasing a clever and innovative approach to storytelling.

My Next Life as a Villainess: All Routes Lead to Doom! -Pirates of the Disturbance- masterfully blends the charm of the original series with a captivating new story. The engaging narrative, lovable characters, and strategic decision-making make this title a must-play for fans of the otome genre and enthusiasts of the My Next Life as a Villainess franchise. With its well-crafted storyline and innovative gameplay elements, this installment stands as a testament to the continued success of the series and is sure to leave players eagerly anticipating future adventures in the My Next Life as a Villainess universe.

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