Shujinkou

Gameplay

Standard gameplay

At first glance, Shujinkou doesn't differ much from other games from the same genres. During the game, we watch the action from the first-person perspective (FPP) and "jump" around invisible, square fields that cover the locations. We engage in exploring the world and getting to know its inhabitants, going through dungeons full of dangers and carrying out quests. We can unlock missions pushing the plot forward and side quests. It is also possible to collect Kanakae orbs (imbued with elements of nature and kanai kanji signs) or to solve puzzles.

We regularly engage in battles with opponents, with whom we fight turn-based skirmishes. On the battlefield, we make use of both combat skills and negotiation abilities. In order to get rid of enemies faster, we must use elements to which they are vulnerable, as well as their weaknesses called "ontological". The former require the use of seven elements, while the latter involve learning successive parts of their names, and consequently - gradually increasing the damage inflicted on them.

As we progress, we develop our character and gather better equipment, which we find in the game world, buy from merchants, or craft ourselves. The icing on the cake are optional activities (like fishing or cooking), mini-games, as well as the possibility of developing bonds (called Kizuna) with individual allies, which gives us access to useful bonuses.

Learning Japanese

Elements related to learning the Japanese language constitute a separate, optional layer of Shujinkou. It is also what distinguishes this game from other productions of this type. The game contains thousands of Japanese words and phrases, as well as kana, kanji and grammatical elements. We get to know them during the game, learning grammatical intricacies, and also honing skills related to writing individual symbols.

The whole thing has been adapted to the needs of both people who are just taking their first steps in learning Japanese, and to the capabilities of those who already have some experience. The game allows for displaying text in four versions. In addition to English and Japanese, there are also furigana (auxiliary kana for kanji) and so-called romaji, which is romanized Japanese language.

Graphics

The graphic design of Shujinkou was maintained in a manga style.