The Return of the Progenitor of Japanese Detective Adventures
The cult classic that laid the foundation for the visual novel and detective adventure genres in Japan is returning. The game Next: The Portopia Serial Murder Case has been announced for the Nintendo Switch and Switch 2 consoles. The release in Japan is scheduled for March 4, 2027.
The original game, created by Yuji Horii (creator of Dragon Quest) and published by Enix, debuted back in 1983 on PC, and in November 1985 was released on the Famicom, becoming the first adventure game for the platform. The new project is being developed under the direct supervision of maestro Horii himself.
What Awaits Players
The events unfold in atmospheric 1980s Kobe. The game will offer classic menu-driven text gameplay with command selection, complemented by modern solutions. Players will have to gather witness testimonies, search for physical evidence, and unravel a web of mysteries.
- Five new cases: investigations will be presented from different perspectives featuring entirely new characters.
- Secrets of the original: the plot will reveal the hidden secrets behind the original murders.
Editions and Bonuses
The game will receive both a digital and physical release (currently only the Japanese language is confirmed):
- Standard Edition (7,678 yen): a copy of the game (Game-Key Card for Switch 2) and a bonus — the original Famicom version included on the cartridge.
- Limited Edition (9,878 yen): a deluxe box, A5 booklet, soundtrack disc, and the Famicom version of the game.
- Digital Edition (4,800 yen): a standard copy of the game.
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