PlayStation 5 Critic Reviews

Overall, I find The Centennial Case a compelling mystery and game. It is a well-done interactive drama. The multi-generational story isn’t just a gimmick, but an inspired choice, and everything comes together in a perfectly satisfying and thoughtful way in the finale. It constantly surprised me with its production values across all fronts (except the disappointing translation) and kept me entertained and asking questions the entire time. I am particularly pleased with the reasoning system as a vessel for solving mysteries in an interactive environment. I will be there on day one for any follow-up games and recommend any mystery fans check out The Centennial Case.

The Centennial Case: A Shijima Story is a memorable, impactful, and well-written mystery adventure boasting sublime voice work and live-action talent that elevates the experience to a new level altogether. Even when accounting for the not-so-subtly implemented drab padding and potentially unwieldy controls on consoles, those faults don’t detract from the riveting storytelling any curious detective should dive into. I’m sincerely hoping this title manages to perform well despite its undoubtedly niche appeal.

The Centennial Case: A Shijima Story is a great example of FMV done right, with a captivating mystery and engaging investigations throughout.

More than just a FMV, we play and live the Centennial Case. Death & Immortality, side by side, in a strong story with heros brings to life by a sold casting.

The Centennial Case: A Shijima Story is an exceptional game in almost every way. I want to sing the praises of this game far and wide, yet its “gameplay” sections largely hold it back from being an absolute masterpiece. The story it presents is gripping and tragic. Its cast is marvelous in delivering their performances, even when faced with the monumental task to play entirely separate characters in different time periods. Everything about its music is stunning. There are so many amazing aspects to this high-budget FMV mystery adventure, but its execution on what it has players do to solve its various mysteries is truly its biggest Achilles’ heel.

Years after releasing games from established franchises or western indies, Square Enix took a different direction with impressive new Japanese titles. The Centennial Case: A Shijima Story was a surprise. And a great one.

I thoroughly enjoyed The Centennial Case: A Shijima Story, but it’s definitely an oddity in today’s gaming landscape. It’s more “interactive film” than a video game, and you should definitely go into it with the mindset that it’s something that’s meant to be watched instead of played.

While it might not be the perfect FMV game, The Centennial Case: A Shijima Story is pretty darn close. With the entwined stories, spectacular acting, and lengthy scenes, it truly is an interactive experience fans of the genre should not miss. And I’d personally love to see Haruka get tangled up in more adventures such as this one. She’s a character that speaks to my soul. Let me traipse around Japan solving crimes with her, please and thank you in advance.

The Centennial Case: A Shijima Story has a story full of mystery and great performances by the actors. This title will be judged by its cover. However, it's not until you play it that you understand its real value as an entertaining title in a genre that not many gamers play in the West.

Shijima Story is a great narrative experience for any crime story and mystery fan. Even though there are some hand-holding and some limitations, it's qualitative writing. Great pacing and characters are enough to hold you through this great live-action experience that provides a feeling like you are watching an excellent TV show with its remarkable cast, great costumes and vivid story points.