Basic Information
- **Official English Title**: Infiltrating a Cult
- **Developer & Publisher**: Developed by 甘味楽園, published by WASABI
- **Release Dates**: July 9, 2023 (North America/Europe/Asia)
- **Supported Platforms**: PC
- **Game Tags**: RPG, Visual Novel, Simulation, Indie
- **Social Media**: Steam Page (https://store.steampowered.com/app/1901450/Infiltrating_a_Cult/)
Deep Dive Review
Enter a world of intrigue and moral ambiguity in Infiltrating a Cult, a narrative-driven RPG that challenges players to navigate the inner workings of a secretive organization. This game blends elements of visual novels and strategic decision-making, offering a unique take on cult infiltration narratives.
Core Gameplay & Mechanics
Players assume the role of an undercover agent tasked with dismantling a cult from within. The game features turn-based combat, where skills like “Strong Attack” and “Consecutive Attack” are essential to overcome cult followers. Key objectives include defeating four captains to uncover the leader’s location, while managing interactions with cult members through dialogue choices that influence story outcomes. A “master” ally provides strategic support, adding depth to combat and narrative progression.
Narrative & Themes
Set in a modern-day context, the story revolves around uncovering the cult’s illegal activities, including human trafficking allegations. The game’s tone shifts between suspense and moral dilemmas, particularly in its DLC expansion, which introduces an all-ages story mode for broader accessibility. While the base game includes adult content, the DLC offers a sanitized version focused on investigation and infiltration mechanics.
Reception & Criticism
Reception has been mixed, with praise for its thematic originality but criticism for its short playtime (approximately 4-6 hours) and repetitive gameplay loops. Steam users highlight the game’s potential for deeper storytelling but note its limited combat system and lack of visual polish. The DLC’s addition of an all-ages mode has been seen as a positive step toward inclusivity.
Technical & Visual Aspects
Visually, the game utilizes a 2D anime-style aesthetic with minimal environmental detail. The UI and combat interface are functional but lack complexity, reflecting its indie development roots. Performance is stable across mid-range PCs, though some users report minor bugs post-launch.
Conclusion
Infiltrating a Cult offers a niche experience for fans of narrative-driven RPGs, particularly those interested in cult-related themes. While its execution falls short in certain areas, its concept and DLC additions suggest potential for future refinement. For players seeking a quick, story-focused experience with light strategic elements, this title remains a curiosity worth exploring.
Game Link: Infiltrating a Cult
