9 R.I.P.

9 R.I.P. is, ultimately, a playful take on urban legends and more akin to that classic film, Ghost, than something more visceral. If you’re out there looking for proper horror with a similar theme, Death Mark 2 is going to be a better recommendation for you. But it’s okay that Otomate didn’t make that game, either. After all, there’s nothing wrong with wanting to get it on with a hot ghost, even if 9 R.I.P. missed the opportunity to make one of these boys look like anime Patrick Swayze.

I’m pleasantly surprised by 9 R.I.P., especially considering I was initially somewhat wary of it due to my horror aversion. Yet I found it to be, at its core, an excellent tale of self-discovery and romance with a supernatural element that helps make it a perfect Halloween treat. Given some of its subject material, it might not be for everyone, but those to whom it does appeal should find a compelling game to play with the lights either on or off!

9 R.I.P. is a unique otome game that explores horror elements to create compelling backstories and circumstances for our protagonist to face. With the usual quality we’ve come to expect from Otomate, this is a great experience throughout.

Confusion might affect Misa, 9 R.I.P.'s main character. But if you appreciate a capricious tone and the ability to sinuously shift genres, there's no reason for indecisiveness. Otomate's latest is a devilishly good time.

9 RIP is another one of those Otomate otome games that experiments with what we expect from these sorts of dating sims, and it’s a great success as a result. The chance the developer took on storytelling means the love interests get more moments with the heroine and also feel like stars of their storylines. It involving urban legends and some horror staples mean we get some unexpected and fun romance options. Plus, the aesthetic is great. There are a few elements that might not be as appreciated people, but I feel like that comes down to personal tastes rather than actual failings on the part of the developer or game itself.

9 R.I.P. is a gripping occult mystery visual novel that weaves a web of tantalizing tales into something truly unique. While certain elements could be expanded upon, the game successfully combines horror, handsome husbandos, and a taste of tragic romance, managing to humanize the monster under the bed. And guess what? He’s kinda hot.