Deluge: Threnody of Crashing Waves DELUXE
Basic Information
- Official English Title: Deluge: Threnody of Crashing Waves DELUXE
- Developer & Publisher: Developed by leaves, published by socah
- Release Dates:
- Steam Early Access: January 7, 2022
- Full Release: July 7, 2022
- Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android
- Genre Tags: Visual Novel, Adventure, Lovecraftian Horror, Mystery, Psychological Thriller
- Social Media & Links:
- Steam Page: https://store.steampowered.com/app/1745690
- itch.io Page: https://socah.itch.io/deluge
- Developer Updates: Available via Steam Community Hub
In-Depth Review
Set in the eerie, land-reclaimed village of Abbotsford, Deluge: Threnody of Crashing Waves DELUXE immerses players in a Lovecraftian mystery where psychological horror intertwines with political intrigue. The game follows Abe, a reluctant transplant, as he uncovers the island’s dark past alongside Ina, a fiery investigative journalist. Together, they delve into a web of corruption, organized crime, and a secretive local church, unraveling a narrative steeped in existential dread.
The visual novel’s atmosphere is heightened by its stark, anime-inspired visuals and a haunting soundtrack that complements the game’s slow-burn tension. Players guide Abe through branching storylines, making decisions that influence relationships with three distinct female characters: Ina (the determined editor), Mei (a cryptic, stone-whispering outcast), and Rika (a preacher’s daughter haunted by oceanic longings). Each route offers a unique exploration of themes ranging from religious fanaticism to ecological collapse.
What distinguishes Deluge is its thematic depth. Drawing inspiration from Dutch history (notably the reclaimed island of Schokland) and Japanese visual novel traditions, the game blends cultural elements seamlessly. The deluxe edition enhances accessibility with multi-language support (including English, Japanese, Spanish, and Russian) and a blind-friendly interface, ensuring its intricate story reaches a broader audience.
Feedback from early access testers highlights the game’s strengths: its evocative art, philosophical musings, and a narrative that balances mystery with character-driven drama. However, some players noted initial text legibility issues (since addressed in updates) and the need for more dynamic font choices. These adjustments reflect the developer’s commitment to improving user experience.
For fans of slow-burn psychological thrillers or Lovecraftian storytelling, Deluge: Threnody of Crashing Waves DELUXE offers a compelling, if unsettling, journey into a world where the sea’s secrets threaten to consume the land. Its layered narrative and atmospheric design make it a standout title in the visual novel genre.
Game Link: Deluge: Threnody of Crashing Waves DELUXE
