Crime Opera: The Butterfly Effect (2021)

Crime Opera: The Butterfly Effect is a visual novel centred around a crime family and the Gallo children. I didn’t know too much about the game before jumping in and I think this is the best way to approach it; much like reading a book, you’ll be faced with twists and turns in the story which are split up into chapters. There are some very dark themes explored so if you’re looking for a light story to switch off with this one probably isn’t for you.

Overall, I really enjoyed my time with Crime Opera. The story is mature and intense, but filtered through the eyes of children and adolescents. The framing is unique, while the story asks readers to grapple with difficult subjects. With multiple endings based on the choices you make, and the promise of five more entries in the series, there’s plenty to draw you in. Honestly, the only thing holding the game back is a few questionable design choices. If those are resolved in the next entry, I think we’re looking at a very promising series.

Crime Opera's grand ambitions aren't limited to one game. This is the first of six (yes, six) titles that the developer has envisioned as a series. Having played this first chapter, I will be looking forward to the next one. It is a pity that the developer didn't consider presentation and aesthetics more closely for a game that is quite serious in tone and theme, but the narrative value of this game is excellent, distinctive, and original, and ultimately, for a visual novel, that's the first-and-foremost goal.