Famicom Detective Club Sequel Promises Gripping Murder Thriller

Nintendo's latest entry in the resurrected Famicom Detective Club series, Emio, the Smiling Man, has sparked mixed reactions. Producer Sakamoto positions it as the culmination of the series' legacy.

A New Chapter in the Famicom Detective Club Saga

The original Famicom Detective Club games, The Missing Heir and The Girl Who Stands Behind, debuted in the late 1980s. Emio, the Smiling Man continues the tradition of atmospheric murder mysteries, placing players in the role of assistant detectives at the Utsugi Detective Agency. The case centers around a series of murders connected to the infamous Emio, the Smiling Man.

Launching globally on August 29th, 2024, for Nintendo Switch, this marks the first new entry in 35 years. A prior cryptic teaser showcased a figure in a trench coat and a smiley-faced paper bag, foreshadowing the game's unsettling tone. The synopsis hints at a chilling connection between a recent murder and a string of cold cases, all linked to the legendary killer.

Players investigate the death of Eisuke Sasaki, uncovering clues that lead to past unsolved crimes. They'll interview classmates, examine crime scenes, and search for evidence. Ayumi Tachibana, a returning character known for her sharp interrogation skills, assists the player. Shunsuke Utsugi, the agency director, also plays a key role, having previously worked on the eighteen-year-old cold cases.

A Divisive Reveal

The initial teaser generated significant buzz, with its departure from Nintendo's typically family-friendly image. One fan accurately predicted the game's nature before the official announcement. While many welcomed the return of the Famicom Detective Club, others expressed disappointment, particularly those who prefer genres other than visual novels.

Exploring Diverse Mystery Themes

Producer Yoshio Sakamoto, in a recent YouTube video, discussed the series' evolution. He described the original games as interactive movies, emphasizing their engaging narratives and atmosphere. The positive reception of the 2021 Switch remakes fueled his decision to create a new installment.

Sakamoto drew inspiration from horror director Dario Argento, citing his use of music and editing as an influence. Composer Kenji Yamamoto recalled creating a particularly terrifying final scene for The Girl Who Stands Behind, employing a dramatic volume increase for a jump scare effect.

Emio, the Smiling Man, is a new urban legend created specifically for the game. Sakamoto aims to deliver a thrilling experience centered around uncovering the truth behind this urban legend, a departure from the superstitious themes of the previous installments. The Missing Heir explored a village curse, while The Girl Who Stands Behind featured a haunting ghost story.

A Product of Creative Freedom

Sakamoto has highlighted the creative freedom granted during the development of the original games, emphasizing Nintendo's hands-off approach, allowing the team to fully realize their vision. The original games received positive reviews, currently holding a 74/100 Metacritic score.

Sakamoto considers Emio, the Smiling Man the culmination of the team's experience, promising a compelling narrative and striking visuals. He anticipates a divisive ending, hoping to spark lasting discussion among players.