Set in a Japan still scarred by World War II, Cartagra will be released in 2025 for Nintendo Switch. The game, a thriller with strong elements of psychological mystery, takes players to the dark alleys of Ueno, Tokyo. There, a series of brutal murders unfold, defying logic and sanity.
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Developed by Japanese brand Innocent Grey and published by Prototype, Cartagra adapts a PC classic for consoles, preserving the refined visual style and dense narrative that made the studio famous.
The story follows former police officer Takashiro Shugo, who, at the request of a former superior, becomes involved in a complex investigation involving the disappearance of a young woman from a traditional family.
The case takes him back to an unresolved past. However, he discovers that the missing woman's sister has the same face as an old flame. From then on, reality and illusion begin to blur, creating a plot where each player's choice directly impacts the characters' fates.
Historical setting and console-adapted gameplay enhance the player experience
Cartagra stands out for its detailed setting in a Tokyo still recovering from the trauma of war. The urban setting carries cultural and social elements of the 1940s, offering players a rare immersion in games of this genre. The art direction, by Sugina Miki, reinforces the somber atmosphere with sober colors and striking expressions.
The soundtrack by MANYO intensifies the tension of decisive moments, subtly accompanying the unfolding plot. The Nintendo Switch version will be compatible with the console's three game modes—TV, handheld, and tabletop—and will support the Pro Controller.
The adaptation will also feature modern features, such as trilingual text (Japanese, English, and Simplified Chinese), full Japanese voice acting, and an interface adapted for touch or one-handed controls. These features make the experience accessible to new audiences without compromising fidelity to the original work.
Interactive narrative and mature themes solidify Cartagra as a standout title
Although it doesn't yet have a defined age rating, Cartagra addresses complex themes like obsession, grief, and identity, which are addressed maturely throughout the story. The narrative pace invites reflection, while the serial crimes serve as triggers to explore human fragility in the face of trauma and loss.
The game's structure allows for different paths and endings, encouraging multiple playthroughs and ensuring that each decision carries real weight. The re-release of this cult classic for a platform like the Switch reinforces the Japanese developers' strategy of reviving works with narrative and historical value.
Furthermore, it introduces a game to the market that speaks to a more demanding audience, interested in deep experiences, closer to literature and cinema than the unbridled action common in many titles.
Scheduled for release sometime in 2025, Cartagra promises to attract both longtime fans and a new generation of players interested in complex stories and rich historical settings. While the exact date and price have not yet been announced, the announcement is already generating anticipation among those passionate about investigative narratives.
