The Darkest Files

The main pros of the game

• Unique Premise: The game is set in post-WWII Germany, focusing on the prosecution of Nazi war crimes, which is both compelling and historically significant.
• Engaging Gameplay: Players enjoy the investigative mechanics, including gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and piecing together cases, which require critical thinking and deduction.
• Art and Atmosphere: The game features a visually striking art style reminiscent of graphic novels, combined with a fitting jazz soundtrack that enhances the somber tone.
• Strong Narrative: The storytelling is praised for its depth and emotional weight, effectively addressing complex themes of justice and morality in a historical context.
• Character Development: The protagonist, Esther Katz, and her relationships with other characters are well-developed, adding emotional stakes to the narrative.

The main cons of the game

• Short Length: Many users express disappointment that the game only includes two cases, which they feel is insufficient for the price and leads to a rushed ending.
• Technical Issues: Several players report bugs that affect gameplay, such as issues with evidence presentation during trials and problems with game saves.
• Limited Replayability: The linear nature of the game and the specific requirements for evidence can lead to frustration, especially when players feel that their logical deductions are not recognized by the game.
• Underwhelming Dialogue Choices: Some reviews mention that the branching dialogue options are uninteresting and lack meaningful impact on the story.

The features or elements that are missing from the game according to users

• More Cases: There is a strong desire for additional cases or DLC to extend the gameplay experience, as players feel the current content is too limited.
• Improved User Interface: Suggestions for a more streamlined UI that facilitates easier navigation of documents and evidence were common, as the current setup can be cumbersome.
• German Voice Acting: Some players expressed disappointment that the game lacks a German voice-over, given its historical context and setting.
• Enhanced Hint System: Users suggested that a more intuitive hint system could help guide players through the evidence-gathering and courtroom phases without being overly prescriptive.

Summary

• Overall, "The Darkest Files" is well-received for its unique approach to historical storytelling and engaging detective gameplay, but it faces criticism for its brevity and some technical shortcomings.

Summary generated on: October 29, 2025