Video Game Review: Crimson Spires

Developer: Woodsy Studio

Publisher: EastAsiaSoft

Genre: Visual Novel

Nintendo Switch

The Nintendo Switch certainly doesn’t have a shortage of visual novels. The handheld hybrid is perfect for games like this that feel great to play while cuddling up in bed or in the fetus position on the corner of the couch. Maybe the second part is just me, but it’s how I find comfort in playing this often wordy but intriguing genre. The latest game visual novel to grace the Nintendo Switch is Crimson Spires, a visual novel that utilizes both 2D and 3D graphics.

Crimson Spires follows Erika, the sheriff in a small mining town. Erika’s world is turned upside down during the Contingency, an event that results in Erika’s town being completely isolated. Planes can’t fly above and anyone who tries to leave dies. While tracking a killer in the town, Erika finds herself stuck in a conspiracy involving the pillars, romance, and even some vampires.

The main plot is interesting enough, and the characters of Crimson Spires are solid enough to keep players invested. Erika has a strong personality, which is different from what I’ve experienced in most visual novels where protagonists are just vessels for the player. The romance and mystery throughout the story stick closer to real world drama than the anime-esque tropes that the genre usually leans on. The romantic options are all solid and add a nice bit of spice to the mystery. The romance and main story thread each balance the game well, with no aspect taking over or ruining Crimson Spires.

One thing that sets Crimson Spires apart from other visual novels is the exploration. Crimson Spires features investigation sequences that are fully 3D. As neat of an idea as this is, these sequences just don’t look great. It’s especially disappointing because Crimson Spires has such good 2D art. It’s pretty game and good time throughout. The character portraits are full of personality despite the game clearly being made on a budget. It’s a work of love and everything feels elevated due to the effort. It’s just a shame that the 3D sequences can’t be at the same quality as the rest of the game.

Crimson Spires is a dark and gripping visual novel that makes the most out of its neat story and characters. The 3D sequences leave a lot to be desired, but this is an otherwise solid visual novel to add to your Switch library.