Urban Myth Dissolution Center

A stylish but slow-paced mystery anthology that's just a little too sluggish for its own good.

Reaching that finale is well worth your time, as it brings together elements from each of the previous episodes into a spectacular finish, with multiple twists. I’m still thinking about the final post-credits scene even now. Just wait, and in a minute, I’ll tell you more about why you should play this game immediately. It’s just that there’s a scratching sound coming from the front door, and I need to go and find out what’s making it…

If you can’t tell by now, I’m deeply in love with this game. I just don’t want to give away too much yet. But I believe it tells an important story about the made-up, easily digestible realities behind the complicated, horrible events in our day-to-day lives. About social media white knight justice as a feel-good spectator sport and how we treat tragedies, culprits, and their victims in our always-online world.

Even if some of Urban Myth Dissolution Center's mysteries are rather straightforward to solve, the overall experience is still reasonably enjoyable to amble through. If you're looking for a more laid-back occult mystery, it's here, but don't expect the myths to be too legendary.

Pixeltastic psycho-detective mystery adventure on Switch

Urban Myth Dissolution Center brings a beautiful and fresh experience to a niche genre that doesn't get enough attention nowadays, but doesn't quite stick the landing.

I know I might have come off as a bit harsh on Urban Myth Dissolution Center, but that’s only because I had such high hopes for it. There are some truly great and unique ideas in here, it’s just a shame that it’s bogged down by banal and laborious gameplay. Honestly, I really hope this game gets a sequel, because I think with some adjustments it could be a truly remarkable title. Including some actual puzzles, faster dialogue delivery, and featuring some of the more bizarre yokai lore would set this game far above many others.

Urban Myth Dissolution Center is a fantastic game for those who appreciate short story collections that encompass all things weird and creepy. I played it on my Steam Deck, curled up in bed with it much like I would with one of my folklore books. Just don’t forget to check under your bed before you get into it.

Urban Myth Dissolution Center is a novel take on the ADV genre that is worth playing, even if it can be finished within a weekend. It makes you think, and not just when it comes to solving a case: its commentary on society, social media and the genesis of urban myths has left an impression on me after finishing the game, along with that spectacular ending.

Urban Myth Dissolution Center is an atmospheric and engaging visual novel that excels in storytelling, art, and character writing. If you enjoy mystery-themed visual novels with a paranormal twist, it’s an easy recommendation. However, if you’re looking for interactive detective gameplay with complex puzzles, you may find it lacking. Despite its flaws, the game offers a unique and immersive experience. If a sequel or DLC expands on the unresolved plot points, it could become something truly special. Until then, this is a hauntingly beautiful but flawed journey into the unknown. Would you dare to join the Urban Myth Dissolution Center? The truth—just like the myths—awaits.