Utawarerumono: Mask of Deception is a grand tale that will enchant the hearts and minds of players as it takes them on an incredible journey. With a beautiful visual novel story experience, intriguing characters, fast-paced SRPG combat, world-class soundtrack and more. The game begins atop a snowy mountain where the protagonist awakens in an unfamiliar wilderness, surrounded by deadly creatures, with nothing but a hospital gown and a splitting headache. However, he's rescued by a beautiful girl named Kuon, who sports both adorable animal ears and a beastlike tail. Finding that the hapless man has no memory of anything, Kuon decides to take the amnesiac into her care, naming him Haku.
When I heard the news that the series was finally returning to PC, I just had to see how the ports turned out.
Which is why it hurts to say that the ports have some rather major issues.
Utawarerumono: Mask of Deception functions well as a visual novel. Unfortunately, the rest of the game suffers, with a battle system devoid of difficulty or punishment and an agonizingly slow start. Be prepared for hours of boredom before getting to the good parts.
Utawarerumono: Mask of Deception tells two different stories—one serious, one sexy—that are so at odds with one another that it loses itself in the process.
While the visual novel elements far outweigh its strategy side, the story - despite being sequel bait - had us enthralled till the very end. If you're looking to try something out of the ordinary, Mask of Deception is a fun romp. We would however suggest picking it up with along its sequel when that hits later in the year, rather than leaving the story...
Utawarerumono: Mask of Deception starts with a humble beginning and take huge proportions. With its engaging story, well-developed characters, stunning art and memorable soundtrack, this game has revealed itself as the biggest surprise of the first half of 2017.
