Leaving DNA

Midplayz
Oct 14, 2023
3 min read

Updated: Jan 6

Thought This Game Would Be About Science

Dive deep into the murky waters of justice, family, and relationships in this game. This isn't just another visual novel; it's an emotional rollercoaster that grapples with dark themes and intricate plots. As Assistant District Attorney Rockford, you'll find your commitment to justice shaken when a cold case draws you closer to the shadows of your own past. Can you overcome your own past?

Keep in mind that I was able to get my hands on the pre-release version of the game. The game might undergo a lot of changes before release. I will try my best to update the review!

About This Game

Storyline

The game mainly revolves around Assistant District Attorney Rockford, a man of principles and unwavering dedication to the American criminal justice system. On the professional front, he's on top of his game, commanding respect and admiration. However, his personal life tells a different story. Rockford's heart bears the scars of early familial tragedies; a mother he lost too soon, and a father, an elite special forces soldier, whose face he never got to see.

Despite numerous romantic engagements, Rockford's relationships often hit a wall due to his complex fear of true “love”. But life, as we know, has a knack for throwing curveballs. An old murder case resurfaces, revealing a clue that throws a hint at Rockford's father's mysterious past. This discovery becomes a Pandora's Box, pushing Rockford into a rollercoaster of emotions, challenging his very foundations of justice and truth.

The story doesn't just focus on Rockford's search for truth about his father; it also intricately weaves in his relationships with four different women. Each woman represents a different aspect of his life: a passionate past with a relentless homicide detective, a bond of childhood and intellect with a brilliant colleague, a clash of principles with an unyielding ex-military combat instructor, and a chance for a heartfelt future with a kind-hearted schoolteacher. Every interaction, every revelation adds depth to Rockford's character and thickens the plot.

Gameplay Mechanics

The essence of this game lies in the choices, it’s a VN afterall. Each decision molds Rockford's journey, shaping his relationships, character development, and the overall progression of the plot. With multiple pathways, the game promises unique experiences with every replay. But the main question is, “Is it worth replaying?”. To be honest, I prefer not replaying games but in the end, it’s your call.

Visuals & Audio

Aesthetically, the game is a delight. The renders, rich in detail, set the mood perfectly for each scene, making players feel Rockford's emotions firsthand. As usual, this game could use more animated scenes. The existing ones feel a bit too simple. It also has the typical eerie silence that you are forced to sit through most of the scenes. I know that hiring Voice Actors and buying a lot of Royalty-Free stock sfx is expensive but I think that such features will give the players a better experience.

Pros

Deep, immersive storyline that keeps players on their toes.
Choices that genuinely matter, providing diverse gameplay experiences.
Detailed and pretty attractive renders.
Intricate character development, especially Rockford.

Cons

The intense, layered storyline might be a bit too much for newcomers to the genre.
Its darker themes may not sit well with everyone.

Conclusion

This isn't just a game; it's a journey into the depths of justice, family, love, and self-discovery. It offers players a chance to question, to feel, and to explore the intricacies of human relationships and personal dilemmas. A must-play for those looking for an experience that stays long after the game is over. Let’s hope they don’t put a ridiculous price tag on this title. I wouldn’t pay anything over $10-15 for this.

Rating: 7/10

The School Teacher is the best.