VA11-HALL-A in a unique game that only comes around once in a while, blending wonderful visuals with light gameplay and snappy text-based dialogue.

VA11-HALL-A

Developer: Sukeban Games

Price: $20.00

Platforms: PC, PS Vita

MonsterVine was provided with a PC code for review

VA11-HALL-A is the type of game that instantly appeals to me. As a fan of visual novel games like Ace Attorney and Danganronpa, the idea of a similar game that puts you in the role of a dystopian-future bartender caught my attention very quickly. I went into the game with high expectations, and left incredibly satisfied.

Taking place in a dark and gloomy future that feels eerily plausible, you assume the role of Jill, a hard-working bartender at the Vallhalla, a hole in the wall establishment in the less than safe part of the city. Alongside the endlessly tough “Boss” and the mysterious but goofy Gillian, you’ll serve and listen to the many woes of numerous varied and memorable denizens of the cyberpunk city. There’s an impressive amount of detail put into the plot, which is greatly appreciated in such a story-heavy game.

The characters of VA11-HALL-A are all great in their own ways. Every character that visits the bar has an entirely different personality, and their own crazy stories. You’ll love some characters and hate others, but that’s how it should be. Some characters, like the corporate boss Donovan, make you wish you could punch them. Other characters, like the naive soldier Sei, grab your attention and make you hope things turn out well for them. The characters and writing are top-notch, and easily the best part of VA11-HALL-A.

When it comes to gameplay, VA11-HALL-A is rather light. This is actually a major positive, as it focuses on the fantastic story. Beyond listening to characters, the most you do is mix drinks. This is an easy and surprisingly stress-free process, as there is no time limit, and any botched drinks can be reset and redone as many times as you wish.

Characters will ask for specific drinks, or for drinks of certain flavours. A recipe book of every drink can be referenced at any time, meaning that the only thing you’re responsible for is making the exact drinks each character asks for. By dragging numerous ingredients into the mixer and aging or putting the drink “on the rocks,” you make each drink at your own pace. Making drinks perfectly increases the tips you receive, which is important to the other side of gameplay.

In between days at the bar, Jill stays at home for short periods of time. During these breaks, you can check your phone, buy things for your house, which help Jill stay concentrated at work, and pay off your debts. Tips are added to your bank immediately so you can purchase items and automatically pay off debts with ease. At the same time, you can look at your phone to read news and blog updates from supporting characters, providing some great world-building.

VA11-HALL-A‘s visuals are crisp and charming. Every sprite oozes personality, and serves to give each character an extra layer of depth. The animations are smooth and sharp, which makes each small gesture a character makes even better. The bar, which always serves as a backdrop, is a nicely detailed set piece, complete with it’s own TV, featuring numerous silly little programs.

The music of is incredibly memorable. Almost every song is catchy enough to get stuck in your head for hours, with sharp beeps and boops that match the game’s visuals nicely. Each song has its own tone which sets the stage for any of the game’s events, be they quirky and bright, or dark and gloomy. Each day, you choose which songs you want to play in the bar from a library of the game’s tunes. This ability to customize the soundtrack is a great little detail that goes a long way in making the game’s atmosphere as bright or dreary as you wish. This doesn’t affect the gameplay in any way, but it’s a nice touch nonetheless.

The Final Word

VA11-HALL-A is an excellent game in every way. The narrative is enthralling with characters that always hold your attention, the visuals are expressive and diverse, and the music is as catchy as it gets. Anyone who enjoys visual novels, or great stories in general, should stop by VA11-HALL-A for a refreshing drink.

– MonsterVine Rating: 5 out of 5 – Excellent