Inescapable: No Rules, No Rescue (2023)

"I'd rather watch Temptation Island..."

Despite Inescapable having some similarities to visual novels and puzzle games such as Danganronpa and Zero Escape it can’t really be compared favourably to them. The narrative starts out so sluggishly that it quickly loses any tension and the handful of puzzles you get to solve are just too simple to be fun. It’s a shame as there are some interesting group dynamics but it all gets bogged down in so many pointless conversations that it quickly becomes monotonous, and the pacing saps any desire to replay for a different ending.

Inescapable: No Rules, No Rescue is an engaging thriller that is always keeping the player on edge. It’s a captivating visual novel that immediately grabs your attention with its engaging storyline and diverse cast of characters.

With some of the worst writing, voice acting, dialogue, and misleads in the history of video games, this rip-off of Danganronpa is an achievement unto itself.

Inescapable: No Rules, No Rescue is the definition of a hidden gem marred by choices made. Where the art’s gorgeous, and the still CGs are beautiful, the pacing is bothersome. I wouldn’t recommend it to a casual player of VNs. It becomes evident that, unless you love exposition that gives everyone dimension, mileage will vary but likely veer towards boredom. It’s a shame because it’s delightful, and the majority of characters are memorable, but it takes too long for the nitty-gritty to begin.