Does this interactive manga capitalise on its bloodthirsty potential, or is it simply the victim of its own ambition?

Can you ever truly know someone? Is trust simply an illusion? Could you ever be driven to kill? These are the kinds of questions developer Spike Chunsoft pose in their maniacal-yet-whimsical interactive mystery novel, Danganronpa: Trigger Happy Havoc; an eccentric tale of intrigue and betrayal that will keep you guessing until the bitter end.

The title’s sinister premise involves fifteen high school students being invited to attend the prestigious institute of Hope’s Peak Academy. Each classmate possesses a unique skillset and are considered unparalleled in their respective fields. Attendees range from the conventional – a writing prodigy, a programmer and a swimming pro – to the bizarre; a clairvoyant, a pop sensation and even a biker gang leader.

Upon arriving the pupils find themselves trapped and are confronted by the sadistic-yet-adorable teddy bear, Monokuma. Claiming to be the headmaster, he explains they must live out the rest of their days confined within the building, unless they do the unthinkable. If one of them can murder another without being caught they get to ”graduate”, earning their freedom. However, if the culprit’s identity is uncovered they will be executed for their crimes.

To read the rest of the article visit GamesGrin.

Rob Gisbey is a games journalist and music production graduate from Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk. To listen to his acoustic demo, read his articles and listen to the VxM Videogames Podcast head to his blog.