Execrez
5 reviews liked by Execrez
Slay the Princess
2023
The Princess is the final boss of "I can fix her" girls.
Slay the Princess
2023
I’ve been really enjoying what I’ve played of Scarlet Hollow, which is one of the best VNs/interactive fiction games I’ve played so I was definitely interested in Slay the Princess, the dev’s other game in development. Slay the Princess shares the similar high bar of quality that Scarlet Hollow has, i.e. the art is fantastic and the game is very reactive with multiple paths to take. Also unlike Scarlet Hollow, Slay the Princess is fully voiced acted and it’s all well done, especially because one guy does most of them and juggles having them be similar yet different personalities. As I previously said the game is quite reactive as choices you make can send you down different paths, though with the way game is set up you don’t run the risk of repeating a path you already went down. For an example of the sheer reactivity, I beat the game once and only have around 20% of the total achievements. The game is engaging for the most part but by the time the climax rears its head the game just kind of gets lost in the weeds of its own metaphysics instead of being thematically concrete and resonant that it kind of lost me at the end. It’s no Scarlet Hollow, but Slay the Princess is still a well-made VN definitely still worth the time especially for this grand ol time of Halloweenie.
Snoot Game
2021
What I expected: "haha funny snoot"
What I got:
You are not the only person in the world. Everyone's fighting their own battles.
What I got:
You are not the only person in the world. Everyone's fighting their own battles.
Snoot Game
2021
This review contains spoilers
Snoot Game is somewhat of a marvel. There is nothing else that quite like it in its niche.
Specifically, a Visual Novel created by a group of users from an Anonymous Japanese basket weaving forum is not unheard of, with the likes of Katawa Shoujo being the foremost VN made by a group of terminally online strangers. However, Snoot Game rests comfortably in its niche with the unique aspect that its parodying of another game that has yet been released at the time of writing, Goodbye Volcano High. It's a struggle to think another game, especially of this size, that exists as a parody to another, let alone one steeped so far in Anonymous image board culture. Snoot Game manages to stand out from the crowd, there's simply not another game quite like it.
Snoot Game is a product of its time. While Katawa Shoujo was complete before the 'culture war' began raging, Snoot Game did not have such a luxury. Snoot Game now stands as one of the very few more sensitive titles covering the hot button topic of gender. Unlike the leagues of quirky indie games that allegorize the positive destruction of the gender binary, Snoot Game takes a visual stance against gender fluidity. There is very little art that takes a stance against gender fluidity, and even less so that attempts to do it in a respectful manner. Snoot Game manages to find the balance between poking fun and outright propagandizing with its message, while making the creator's opinion very clear. Snoot Game manages to explore a relationship with someone identifying as non-binary as more than just a black and white endeavor through its various endings, despite it being made clear which is the more positive outcome.
Despite what is mentioned above likely being the most contentious aspect of the game, Snoot Game has much more substance than a critique against gender fluidity. One might think a parody game of this sort would be shallow, short, and generally forgettable, but Snoot Game manages to rise above any preconceived notions. By the end of my first play-through and my first ending, I found myself surprised how much I cared for many of the colorful cast of characters. The emotions that that each character got me to feel were varied and strong. The fact that I can say I despise one character is very intriguing to me, as the character writing left a lasting impression that ended up with me despising, respecting, or loving certain characters. If it were incompetently written, I would simply feel nothing about these characters and forget about them, but I was left yearning to see more of their interactions with one another.
Another pleasant surprise was the excellent handling of the relationships. Some aspects may fall through the cracks because of the nature of a multi-ending Visual Novel, but a majority of the writing concering the relationship content was superb. The trials and tribulations managed to stay interesting, but realistic enough to hit very close to home on some cases.
While the writing was a highlight, the skill and passion placed in character art assets cannot be understated. Despite appearing relatively simple, the different expressions and animations of the characters contribute a great deal to the emotions conveyed to the player. Specifically, Naser's character portraits shifting of emotions were fantastically done. Another highlight must go to Anon's eyes, very expressive and I loved seeing them whenever they appeared. Nearly all of the different character portraits and their variations were punching above their weight. The CGs are very effective at provoking the intended thoughts or emotions to the player.
What I initially expected was going to be a simple parody game played for a quick laugh has left me feeling quite melancholic after completion. It's one of those games where you feel a tinge of sadness that it's over because, once again, there is nothing else quite like it.
All of this makes Snoot Game one of the most unique games available to play right now. Any game that casually references Gurren Lagann is a 10/10 in my booka. Highly recommended.
Specifically, a Visual Novel created by a group of users from an Anonymous Japanese basket weaving forum is not unheard of, with the likes of Katawa Shoujo being the foremost VN made by a group of terminally online strangers. However, Snoot Game rests comfortably in its niche with the unique aspect that its parodying of another game that has yet been released at the time of writing, Goodbye Volcano High. It's a struggle to think another game, especially of this size, that exists as a parody to another, let alone one steeped so far in Anonymous image board culture. Snoot Game manages to stand out from the crowd, there's simply not another game quite like it.
Snoot Game is a product of its time. While Katawa Shoujo was complete before the 'culture war' began raging, Snoot Game did not have such a luxury. Snoot Game now stands as one of the very few more sensitive titles covering the hot button topic of gender. Unlike the leagues of quirky indie games that allegorize the positive destruction of the gender binary, Snoot Game takes a visual stance against gender fluidity. There is very little art that takes a stance against gender fluidity, and even less so that attempts to do it in a respectful manner. Snoot Game manages to find the balance between poking fun and outright propagandizing with its message, while making the creator's opinion very clear. Snoot Game manages to explore a relationship with someone identifying as non-binary as more than just a black and white endeavor through its various endings, despite it being made clear which is the more positive outcome.
Despite what is mentioned above likely being the most contentious aspect of the game, Snoot Game has much more substance than a critique against gender fluidity. One might think a parody game of this sort would be shallow, short, and generally forgettable, but Snoot Game manages to rise above any preconceived notions. By the end of my first play-through and my first ending, I found myself surprised how much I cared for many of the colorful cast of characters. The emotions that that each character got me to feel were varied and strong. The fact that I can say I despise one character is very intriguing to me, as the character writing left a lasting impression that ended up with me despising, respecting, or loving certain characters. If it were incompetently written, I would simply feel nothing about these characters and forget about them, but I was left yearning to see more of their interactions with one another.
Another pleasant surprise was the excellent handling of the relationships. Some aspects may fall through the cracks because of the nature of a multi-ending Visual Novel, but a majority of the writing concering the relationship content was superb. The trials and tribulations managed to stay interesting, but realistic enough to hit very close to home on some cases.
While the writing was a highlight, the skill and passion placed in character art assets cannot be understated. Despite appearing relatively simple, the different expressions and animations of the characters contribute a great deal to the emotions conveyed to the player. Specifically, Naser's character portraits shifting of emotions were fantastically done. Another highlight must go to Anon's eyes, very expressive and I loved seeing them whenever they appeared. Nearly all of the different character portraits and their variations were punching above their weight. The CGs are very effective at provoking the intended thoughts or emotions to the player.
What I initially expected was going to be a simple parody game played for a quick laugh has left me feeling quite melancholic after completion. It's one of those games where you feel a tinge of sadness that it's over because, once again, there is nothing else quite like it.
All of this makes Snoot Game one of the most unique games available to play right now. Any game that casually references Gurren Lagann is a 10/10 in my booka. Highly recommended.
Snoot Game
2021
Snoot Game is a very interesting cultural phenomenon. A meme game parody made by 4chan that outshines its source material, not just because it's funny and competently made, but also it also has a surprisingly heartfelt story and message. The writing is competent, its character art is okay to good, the characters are engaging, the music is surprisingly good, and it can be pretty funny. It kind of sucks you in. But what truly sets Snoot Game apart is its ability to go into profound themes that comment on attitudes of the modern era in a unique way.
This is the type of delicate story only an independent work could tell. Mainstream media sure as hell wouldn't tackle controversial and nuanced takes on modern issues like Snoot Game does. At its heart is Fang, a character who grapples with her identity. She believes herself to be non-binary. In Goodbye Volcano High, that's it. That's her purpose. Fang = non-binary, that's why she exists as a character. But in Snoot Game, Fang believes herself to be non-binary, only to realize it was a temporary phase in her journey of self-discovery.
Importantly, Snoot Game doesn't cast judgment on transgender people as a group, a fashion, or an ideology. It treats Fang as one person who represents herself, an individual. But her story with Anon does questions the rigid and dogmatic attitudes that surround discussions on gender. Fang's narrative reflects the real-life experiences of many young people who experiment with various labels in their youth, transgender or otherwise, only to later shed them as they deepen their understanding of themselves. Exploration of gender identity is, in a sense, a form of fashion. It's something a person can adopt and discard as their understanding of themselves evolves. That isn't to say it isn't real. Your fashions and labels you choose to adopt may end up being some deeply profound part of you that you'll want to carry with you for a long time. But most young people who struggle with gender identity come out of it believing they're not trans or non-binary after all. It would be very unwise to cast aside and ignore the growing trend of people using gender identity as fashion, and the growing number of detransitioners. There's something to learn from them, and their stories are worth telling.
But all that isn't even the real point of Snoot Game. Anon doesn't think poorly of Fang for her non-binary self-identity at all, only insulting her over it very briefly after meeting and she makes a scene over him misgendering her, and in the second-worst ending of the game, where Anon and Fang both failed to change and grow as people.
The real message in Snoot Game is clear: Our identities are complex and multifaceted, and they extend far beyond the confines of labels we may adopt. What truly defines us are our attitudes and actions, which evolve as we muddle through the intricacies of our lives and the world and people all around us. Snoot Game encourages us to embrace the fluidity of our identities and to not worry too much about limiting labels that may or may not authentically represent our inner selves.
Anon, our focal character, presents a different kind of message, though a harmonious one. He's the typical modern-day misanthrope. An outcast, a loser, a guy that shitposts and trolls online. Anon is a very flawed character to start with, and he has a lot to learn. But isn't it usually the outcast who challenges conventional notions of respect, friendship, and human connection? Anon's perspective on gender identity stands in stark contrast to Fang's. He doesn't believe in the whole transgender thing, he barely even understands it and he sees Fang for her innate femininity, barely recognizing her non-binary persona. And they don't really challenge each other on this outside of Fang calling him a bigot a few times, so they don't really try to change each other's minds on the issue. So how can he form a bond with her? His outlook clashes with the prevailing attitudes that total ideological alignment is a prerequisite for closeness. As if that's the benchmark for love and respect. Give it any thought and you'd come to the conclusion that it isn't. Snoot Game rejects that idea outright. Just because someone believes in the same gender stuff as you doesn't mean they're going to treat you right. Just because someone doesn't believe in the gender stuff you do doesn't mean they're going to treat you wrong.
Anon may not share Fang's beliefs, but his actions speak volumes about his respect for her as a person. He goes out of his way to bring happiness into her life, enjoying her company, trying to make her smile, taking joy in her successes, comforting her when she's low or vulnerable, and actively supporting her deepest dreams and aspirations. Anon's genuine desire to be there for Fang shows a deeper connection that transcends labels, fashions, ideologies, or whatever else. It's important to recognize that Anon is never trying to fix Fang. He's not going on Ben Shapiro type rants about how her identity is invalid or something like that. He's supporting her as she figures herself out.
The dynamic between Fang and Anon underscores the game's idea that true love and respect grows out of actions and attitudes, not fashions or ideologies. If you're willing to reach out, show kindness, and care. Anon sees nothing but beauty in Fang's heart and soul and it draws him out of his shell. He's ready and willing to nurture Fang's spirit and provide companionship and comfort for her, and by accepting that he can love someone, through all the trials that puts him through, he becomes a better man for it. That's why she ends up falling in love with him in return. And what's more important than love? I don't think anything is. Human beings are far, far more than their gender identities, and love is far more encompassing than agreement on fashions or ideologies. Deep, sincere love can exist between people who hold differing beliefs and world views, and Snoot Game seems to highlight that. Just because someone is very different from you, doesn't mean you can't become close. It's all about how they treat you. Really treat you.
Snoot Game, at its core, is a journey of self-discovery, winding and complex through Anon and Fang's evolution. Yet they also shows that human bonds transcend labels when they're rooted in care and goodwill. Their arcs represent the dialects of coming together in harmony. Our identities and beliefs constantly shift as we grow. Change is the only constant. Yet love persists throughout those transformations when you focused on nurturing the spirits of the people you care about, not controlling anyone's mind.
One more key theme of Fang and Anon's dynamic is in mutual understanding emerging by embracing each person's quirks and complexity, not demanding conformity. Shared hopes, vulnerability, and support resonate deeper than sharing ideologies. In a fractured world, Snoot Game has hope that common humanity can overcome division when we open our hearts, whether you're old-fashioned or new-fashioned, we should be able to respect each other and come together. Perspectives differ, but kindness is a universal language. The game's ultimate message seems to be that life's richness blooms through supporting others' growth, not judging differences. Our shared longing for purpose binds us. And most importantly of all, Fang's snoot is very boopable.
This is the type of delicate story only an independent work could tell. Mainstream media sure as hell wouldn't tackle controversial and nuanced takes on modern issues like Snoot Game does. At its heart is Fang, a character who grapples with her identity. She believes herself to be non-binary. In Goodbye Volcano High, that's it. That's her purpose. Fang = non-binary, that's why she exists as a character. But in Snoot Game, Fang believes herself to be non-binary, only to realize it was a temporary phase in her journey of self-discovery.
Importantly, Snoot Game doesn't cast judgment on transgender people as a group, a fashion, or an ideology. It treats Fang as one person who represents herself, an individual. But her story with Anon does questions the rigid and dogmatic attitudes that surround discussions on gender. Fang's narrative reflects the real-life experiences of many young people who experiment with various labels in their youth, transgender or otherwise, only to later shed them as they deepen their understanding of themselves. Exploration of gender identity is, in a sense, a form of fashion. It's something a person can adopt and discard as their understanding of themselves evolves. That isn't to say it isn't real. Your fashions and labels you choose to adopt may end up being some deeply profound part of you that you'll want to carry with you for a long time. But most young people who struggle with gender identity come out of it believing they're not trans or non-binary after all. It would be very unwise to cast aside and ignore the growing trend of people using gender identity as fashion, and the growing number of detransitioners. There's something to learn from them, and their stories are worth telling.
But all that isn't even the real point of Snoot Game. Anon doesn't think poorly of Fang for her non-binary self-identity at all, only insulting her over it very briefly after meeting and she makes a scene over him misgendering her, and in the second-worst ending of the game, where Anon and Fang both failed to change and grow as people.
The real message in Snoot Game is clear: Our identities are complex and multifaceted, and they extend far beyond the confines of labels we may adopt. What truly defines us are our attitudes and actions, which evolve as we muddle through the intricacies of our lives and the world and people all around us. Snoot Game encourages us to embrace the fluidity of our identities and to not worry too much about limiting labels that may or may not authentically represent our inner selves.
Anon, our focal character, presents a different kind of message, though a harmonious one. He's the typical modern-day misanthrope. An outcast, a loser, a guy that shitposts and trolls online. Anon is a very flawed character to start with, and he has a lot to learn. But isn't it usually the outcast who challenges conventional notions of respect, friendship, and human connection? Anon's perspective on gender identity stands in stark contrast to Fang's. He doesn't believe in the whole transgender thing, he barely even understands it and he sees Fang for her innate femininity, barely recognizing her non-binary persona. And they don't really challenge each other on this outside of Fang calling him a bigot a few times, so they don't really try to change each other's minds on the issue. So how can he form a bond with her? His outlook clashes with the prevailing attitudes that total ideological alignment is a prerequisite for closeness. As if that's the benchmark for love and respect. Give it any thought and you'd come to the conclusion that it isn't. Snoot Game rejects that idea outright. Just because someone believes in the same gender stuff as you doesn't mean they're going to treat you right. Just because someone doesn't believe in the gender stuff you do doesn't mean they're going to treat you wrong.
Anon may not share Fang's beliefs, but his actions speak volumes about his respect for her as a person. He goes out of his way to bring happiness into her life, enjoying her company, trying to make her smile, taking joy in her successes, comforting her when she's low or vulnerable, and actively supporting her deepest dreams and aspirations. Anon's genuine desire to be there for Fang shows a deeper connection that transcends labels, fashions, ideologies, or whatever else. It's important to recognize that Anon is never trying to fix Fang. He's not going on Ben Shapiro type rants about how her identity is invalid or something like that. He's supporting her as she figures herself out.
The dynamic between Fang and Anon underscores the game's idea that true love and respect grows out of actions and attitudes, not fashions or ideologies. If you're willing to reach out, show kindness, and care. Anon sees nothing but beauty in Fang's heart and soul and it draws him out of his shell. He's ready and willing to nurture Fang's spirit and provide companionship and comfort for her, and by accepting that he can love someone, through all the trials that puts him through, he becomes a better man for it. That's why she ends up falling in love with him in return. And what's more important than love? I don't think anything is. Human beings are far, far more than their gender identities, and love is far more encompassing than agreement on fashions or ideologies. Deep, sincere love can exist between people who hold differing beliefs and world views, and Snoot Game seems to highlight that. Just because someone is very different from you, doesn't mean you can't become close. It's all about how they treat you. Really treat you.
Snoot Game, at its core, is a journey of self-discovery, winding and complex through Anon and Fang's evolution. Yet they also shows that human bonds transcend labels when they're rooted in care and goodwill. Their arcs represent the dialects of coming together in harmony. Our identities and beliefs constantly shift as we grow. Change is the only constant. Yet love persists throughout those transformations when you focused on nurturing the spirits of the people you care about, not controlling anyone's mind.
One more key theme of Fang and Anon's dynamic is in mutual understanding emerging by embracing each person's quirks and complexity, not demanding conformity. Shared hopes, vulnerability, and support resonate deeper than sharing ideologies. In a fractured world, Snoot Game has hope that common humanity can overcome division when we open our hearts, whether you're old-fashioned or new-fashioned, we should be able to respect each other and come together. Perspectives differ, but kindness is a universal language. The game's ultimate message seems to be that life's richness blooms through supporting others' growth, not judging differences. Our shared longing for purpose binds us. And most importantly of all, Fang's snoot is very boopable.