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SHUTEN ORDER

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of SHUTEN ORDER
Item: SHUTEN ORDER
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2025

GenresAdventure, Action, Puzzle and Logic, Single Player

AvailableSep 5, 2025

PlatformNintendo Switch

DeveloperNeilo

Overview

"168 remaining until the end of the world..." Humanity is approaching its end. A sudden dismemberment murder of the leader of a religious nation that advocates an apocalyptic ideology... Five adventure games are combined into one, centered around a suspenseful story full of mystery and intrigue.

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Shuten Order impresses with its gripping narrative and thought-provoking themes, as critics laud the unique premise of protagonist Rei solving her own murder in a cult-dominated post-apocalyptic world. While the game excels in atmosphere and complex story routes, some reviews highlight weak writing and underdeveloped characters that could hinder player engagement. Overall, it stands out for its captivating story, making it a must-play for those craving depth in a dystopian setting, despite its narrative flaws.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

89%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

11%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The overall sentiment regarding the story of Shuten Order is predominantly positive, with many critics praising its unique narrative and engaging themes. Reviewers like But Why Tho? and Final Weapon highlight the intriguing premise of the protagonist, Rei, who must solve her own murder within a post-apocalyptic world dominated by a cult-like society. This setup allows for a rich tapestry of character interactions and multiple story routes, as noted by Noisy Pixel, who emphasizes the complexity and depth of the narrative. Additionally, GamingTrend appreciates the exploration of identity and power dynamics, suggesting that the game offers a thought-provoking critique of religion within its storyline. The haunting atmosphere and unexpected twists, as mentioned by Nintenduo, further contribute to the game's compelling narrative experience, making it a standout feature of Shuten Order. Despite the overall acclaim, some critics have pointed out weaknesses in the writing and character development. COGconnected mentions "lazy elements and exposition issues" that detract from the otherwise gripping mystery narrative. Similarly, GamingTrend notes that while the story is complex, some character arcs lack depth, which could lead to a less engaging experience for players. This sentiment is echoed by Nintenduo, who observes that certain secondary characters may not be as well-developed, potentially leaving players wanting more from these interactions. These critiques suggest that while the main storyline is strong, there are areas where the execution could be improved. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Shuten Order boasts a captivating and well-crafted narrative that engages players through its unique premise and thematic depth. Reviewers like The Outerhaven and TheSixthAxis commend the layered mystery and haunting world setup, reinforcing the game's strengths. While there are some criticisms regarding writing quality and character development, the majority of critics agree that the story is a highlight of the game, making it a worthwhile experience for players seeking a rich narrative in a dystopian setting.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

SHUTEN ORDER impresses with its diverse gameplay, blending genres like detective adventures and dating sims, earning praise for innovation and engagement. However, critics note that some routes feel repetitive and lack depth, with clunky mechanics diminishing interactivity. While it offers a unique experience, the inconsistency leaves players craving more substance in gameplay.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

33%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

67%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of SHUTEN ORDER has garnered a mix of praise from various critics, particularly for its diversity and creativity. Reviewers like Final Weapon and Noisy Pixel highlight the game's ability to offer five distinct routes that incorporate a variety of genres, including detective adventures, dating sim parodies, and even stealth horror elements. This genre-blending approach not only enhances engagement but also breaks away from the linearity often found in visual novels, as noted by TheSixthAxis. Critics appreciate the innovative mechanics, such as point-and-click interactions and quick-time events during battles, which GameGrin describes as creating a "chill experience" despite the tension of the music. Overall, the variety in gameplay styles is seen as a significant strength, keeping the experience fresh and engaging for players. However, several critics have pointed out notable shortcomings in the gameplay of SHUTEN ORDER. While the variety of routes is commendable, some reviewers, including But Why Tho? and GamingTrend, express concerns about certain routes feeling repetitive or simplistic. COGconnected echoes this sentiment, stating that while the gameplay mixes perspectives and visual novel styles, it ultimately lacks depth, making it feel shallow at times. Nintenduo further emphasizes that the mechanics can be clunky and that the gameplay often revolves around reading text with minimal interactivity, which may disappoint players looking for more substantial gameplay experiences. This criticism suggests that while the game is ambitious in its scope, it may not fully deliver on gameplay depth. The overall consensus among critics indicates that SHUTEN ORDER offers a unique and varied gameplay experience that is both engaging and innovative. However, this diversity comes with the caveat of certain routes lacking depth and feeling repetitive, as noted by multiple reviewers. Critics like GamingTrend and Nintenduo highlight the narrative focus, which, while enriching the story, may detract from the gameplay experience for those seeking more interactive elements. In summary, while SHUTEN ORDER succeeds in providing a rich tapestry of gameplay styles, it struggles with consistency in execution, leaving some players wanting more depth and refinement in its mechanics.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Shuten Order dazzles with its vibrant comic book aesthetic and unique art direction, earning rave reviews for its visual style on Nintendo Switch. Critics praise its blend of anime and pop art, enhancing storytelling through dynamic designs. However, technical issues like lack of anti-aliasing and awkward 3D character models raise concerns. Despite these drawbacks, the game's striking visuals secure its status as a standout title in the gaming landscape.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

100%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The overall sentiment regarding the graphics and visual design of Shuten Order is overwhelmingly positive, with many critics praising its vibrant and unique aesthetic. Reviewers from But Why Tho? and Final Weapon highlighted the game's striking comic book style, noting the use of vibrant colors that enhance the visual experience on the Nintendo Switch. The art direction, which combines elements of traditional anime and pop art, received commendations from GameGrin, who emphasized how this blend contributes to the game's overall appeal. Critics like Noisy Pixel and The Outerhaven appreciated the dynamic art direction and character designs, which not only enhance the atmosphere but also enrich the storytelling experience through illustrated backgrounds and character sprites. However, despite the acclaim, some criticisms emerged regarding certain technical aspects of the graphics. GamingTrend pointed out that the Switch version suffers from a lack of anti-aliasing, which can detract from the overall visual quality. Additionally, COGconnected noted that while the 2D art is impressive, the 3D character models feel out of place, creating a dissonance in the overall visual presentation. Nintenduo also mentioned that the character designs are flat and cartoonish, which may not appeal to all players, especially given the game's explicit visual representations of gore that could clash with the otherwise vibrant aesthetic. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Shuten Order boasts a visually compelling design that stands out in the gaming landscape. The majority of reviewers, including But Why Tho? and TheSixthAxis, celebrated the game's artistic choices and the vibrant color palette that enhances the experience. While there are some criticisms regarding technical execution and the integration of 3D elements, these do not overshadow the overall positive reception. The unique visual style, characterized by its comic book influences and dynamic illustrations, solidifies Shuten Order as a noteworthy title in terms of graphics and visual design on the Nintendo Switch.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

SHUTEN ORDER's sound design and music are mostly praised by critics for enhancing the game's atmosphere, with highlights on its impressive soundtrack and the work of composer Masafumi Takada. However, some note issues with track memorability and overwhelming sound clutter. Overall, the auditory elements are viewed as strong assets, despite minor criticisms.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

63%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

38%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The opinions regarding the sound design and music of SHUTEN ORDER reveal a generally positive sentiment among critics, highlighting the game's strong auditory elements. But Why Tho? praises the soundtrack for its fantastic collection of songs that enhance the game's atmosphere, while COGconnected describes the music as gorgeous, drawing comparisons to classic soundtracks like Castlevania: Symphony of the Night. Final Weapon emphasizes the contributions of composer Masafumi Takada, noting that his recognizable tunes effectively complement the narrative and atmosphere. Additionally, GameGrin appreciates the bass-heavy score that enhances the visuals and intensifies battle sequences, while GamingTrend acknowledges the ominous and atmospheric compositions that align well with the game's themes. Noisy Pixel further supports this positive view by mentioning the nearly 100 tracks that are varied and tonally consistent, enriching the gameplay experience. Despite the overall praise, there are some criticisms regarding the sound design and music. Nintenduo points out that while the sound design is competent, the soundtrack lacks memorability, suggesting that some elements may not leave a lasting impression on players. TheSixthAxis also raises a concern about the sound design, noting that the cacophony of overlapping voices and sounds, while contributing to a chaotic atmosphere, can become overwhelming at times. This indicates that while the intention behind the sound design may be to create an immersive experience, its execution might lead to moments of auditory clutter that detract from the overall enjoyment. In summary, the consensus among critics is that SHUTEN ORDER features a commendable soundtrack that significantly enhances the game's atmosphere and narrative. While there are some criticisms regarding the memorability of certain tracks and the potential for overwhelming sound design, the majority of reviewers, including Noisy Pixel and Final Weapon, agree that the music and sound elements are well-crafted and effectively contribute to the gaming experience. Overall, the sound design and music of SHUTEN ORDER are seen as strong points, with a few caveats that do not overshadow the game's auditory achievements.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

SHUTEN ORDER's voice acting receives high praise for its quality, particularly the Japanese performances that enhance character depth and immersion. However, critics highlight the absence of an English dub as a major accessibility issue, potentially alienating non-Japanese speaking players. While the performances are a standout feature, the lack of localization could limit the game's audience engagement.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

33%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

67%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in SHUTEN ORDER has garnered a largely positive reception from critics, particularly highlighting the quality of the Japanese voice performances. Final Weapon commends the renowned Japanese actors for their ability to infuse depth into the characters across various routes, which significantly enhances the overall gaming experience. Similarly, GameGrin praises the execution of voice acting, specifically noting the character Himeru, whose portrayal adds personality and confidence, further enriching the narrative. GamingTrend also appreciates the extensive voicing of lines, which allows the actors to showcase their talents, suggesting that the voice acting contributes positively to player immersion. However, there are notable drawbacks that critics have pointed out regarding the voice acting. A primary concern is the lack of an English dub, which Noisy Pixel and The Outerhaven emphasize as a potential barrier to accessibility for players who may not be fluent in Japanese. This limitation could alienate a segment of the audience, as those who prefer English voiceovers might find it challenging to engage fully with the content. Additionally, while GamingTrend mentions that most lines are voiced, it cautions that players who tend to speedread may miss emotional nuances, indicating that the delivery of the performances may not be fully appreciated by all players. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while the voice acting in SHUTEN ORDER is of high quality and enhances the gaming experience, its accessibility issues cannot be overlooked. Critics like Nintenduo and Noisy Pixel acknowledge the excellence of the Japanese performances but caution that the absence of an English dub may limit the game's reach. Despite these concerns, the general sentiment remains positive, with many reviewers recognizing the voice acting as a standout feature that adds depth and personality to the characters, thereby enriching the narrative experience for those who can fully engage with it.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

Analysis Unavailable

Summary unavailable

TL;DR

technical performance

Description unavailable

Replay Value

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TL;DR

SHUTEN ORDER receives mostly positive reviews for its multiple routes and engaging storylines, enticing players to replay. Critics praise its variety and character arcs but caution that shallow gameplay and repetitiveness could undermine the overall experience. While it offers solid replay value, concerns about depth create a mixed sentiment.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

56%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

44%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The overall sentiment regarding the replay value of SHUTEN ORDER is predominantly positive, with several critics highlighting the game's multiple routes and endings as a significant draw for players. But Why Tho? emphasizes the appeal of exploring different story paths and character interactions, while Final Weapon concurs, noting the encouragement to explore various gameplay styles. GameGrin also echoes this sentiment by pointing out the five distinct paths that provide unique gameplay experiences and story variations. Noisy Pixel adds to this positive perspective by mentioning that the character arcs do not invalidate each other, allowing players to enjoy the narratives at their own pace. Overall, the consensus among critics is that SHUTEN ORDER offers a rich tapestry of choices that can entice players to replay the game. However, despite the strong positive feedback, there are notable criticisms regarding the game's replay value. COGconnected raises concerns about the shallow gameplay potentially deterring players from engaging in multiple playthroughs. Similarly, GamingTrend points out that while the five routes offer significant replay value, some may feel repetitive or less engaging than others. Nintenduo echoes this concern, mentioning that although the game has a substantial playtime of around 40 hours, the limited exploration and repetitive elements could hinder the overall replay experience. TheSixthAxis also notes that while there are multiple routes, some may not stand alone as well as others, suggesting inconsistency in the quality of the gameplay experiences. In conclusion, while the critics generally agree that SHUTEN ORDER possesses a commendable level of replay value due to its multiple routes and storylines, there is a cautionary note regarding the depth and engagement of the gameplay. The game’s structure encourages exploration and offers varied narratives, as highlighted by The Outerhaven and others. Still, the concerns about repetitiveness and shallow gameplay raised by critics like COGconnected and Nintenduo suggest that while the game has potential for replayability, it may not fully capitalize on it for all players. Thus, the overall sentiment is mixed, with a strong foundation of replay value tempered by some reservations about gameplay depth.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

62%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

36%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The overall sentiment towards SHUTEN ORDER among critics is predominantly positive, highlighting its strengths in narrative depth, character development, and engaging gameplay. Critics like But Why Tho? and GameGrin praise the game for its compelling story and beautiful aesthetics, emphasizing that it provides an unforgettable experience. Final Weapon also notes the successful blend of strong storytelling with varied gameplay mechanics, positioning it as a standout title within the visual novel genre. Noisy Pixel echoes this sentiment, calling it a highly inventive adventure that offers a rich narrative and stunning visuals, making it a must-play for fans. The game's ability to critique complex themes, such as religion, while maintaining a captivating narrative, is also acknowledged by GamingTrend, further solidifying its appeal. Despite the overall acclaim, several critics point out notable flaws that detract from the experience. COGconnected mentions the long-winded writing and shallow gameplay mechanics, which may limit its appeal to a broader audience. Pacing issues are a recurring theme, with both GamingTrend and Nintenduo highlighting how these can disrupt the flow of the narrative. The Outerhaven and TheSixthAxis also note excessive dialogue as a potential drawback, suggesting that while the game is memorable, it could benefit from a more concise approach to storytelling. These criticisms indicate that while the game excels in many areas, it is not without its shortcomings. In summary, the consensus among critics is that SHUTEN ORDER is a very good title, especially for fans of the visual novel genre. The majority of reviewers celebrate its narrative depth, character development, and engaging gameplay, with many considering it a must-try experience. However, the critiques regarding pacing and dialogue suggest that there is room for improvement. Overall, the positive reception outweighs the negatives, indicating that SHUTEN ORDER successfully delivers a compelling experience that resonates well with its audience, as reflected in the enthusiastic endorsements from critics like TheSixthAxis and The Outerhaven.

TL;DR

Critics largely praise SHUTEN ORDER for its rich narrative, character development, and engaging gameplay, labeling it a standout in the visual novel genre. However, concerns about slow pacing and excessive dialogue highlight some shortcomings. Overall, it's a must-play for genre fans, despite room for improvement.

MONSTER

Reviews

45 reviews found

100

The Outerhaven

Nintendo Switch

Aug 29, 2025