“Soundless - A Modern Salem in Remote Area” by milk+ visual
This review does not contain spoilers, as my goal is to encourage others to play the game for themselves!
Doing my usual stalking of the visual novel + horror tags on itch, I came across this work of art, upon clicking I was told by the description how thee game told the story of Mercy, a fifteen year old girl living in an isolated village dominated by a religion worshipping “two halves”, defensive and offensive energy, or “Barrier” and “Expulsive”. The description warned of themes of abuse and bullying, but as a lover of dark themes that only made me want to play more.
A few hours later, I felt like my brain had been put through a wringer, but in the best way possible. Soundless had me completely captivated from beginning to end, I couldn’t have taken a break from playing if I tried. Throughout my playthrough I felt as though I really was living as Mercy, a young girl shunned by her peers due to a “curse” causing her to experience frightening visions. Mercy’s pain and loneliness is something many people have experienced in life, and the hurt of watching the world go on without you is something I can relate to all too well.
However, Mercy was far from the only character I empathized with, in fact, by the end of the game most of the characters have shown a more human, flawed and hurting side of themselves. For example we learn about the past of Clara, one of Mercy’s relentless school bullies, and what caused her to act this way, bringing out a much more human and sympathetic side of her.Â
I have to say though, my favorite aspect of this game is by far the unpredictability of the plot. I’ll be honest, I had no clue where this was going, even after I completed the main story I was lost, sure I understood vaguely what had happened, but so much still made no sense, that is until reading the notes available at the end screen. We are able to read various entries dating from years before the story began, up until the very end, from the perspective of a familiar face. We learn that all was never what it seemed, and the story ties up perfectly, leaving the player satisfied (if not a little heartbroken).
Another feature I’m in love with is the advice and support straight from the developer at the end. As someone who struggles with mental illness, having a supportive meta message tying up the symbolism within the game was the perfect ending to (positive) emotional turmoil. Soundless portrays themes of mental illness in a respectful and true way, and the developer’s note brings this all together in a beautiful, emotional way.
I really cannot recommend this game enough, if you’re into psychological horror, unexpected twists, emotionally-charged story lines and deep, intriguing characters, Soundless is the perfect visual novel for you. I really can’t praise the developer enough for this amazing game,Â
PLEASE PLAY SOUNDLESS !!