VN - Others - Completed - The Shell Part II: Purgatorio [v1.0.0H] [Innocent Grey]

(I didn't read the shell part 2 version, I read Kara no Shoujo - The second episode)

Kara no Shoujo - The second episode (KnS 2) is one of the most impressive VN's that you can get your hands on, in English. The reason why this is not as "mainstream" as MLA or SG, is the time period explored in the setting (Japan before and after WW2), and having literary inspirations (divine comedy) that don't mix well with some expectations. I have no idea how to convince you of the following, but: KnS 2 is better than most top rated VN's.

Positive:
- A great mystery VN, that improved over the original, and also increased its scope by adding new material (places, facts, people, timeline...)
- Premise, setting and worldbuilding, are all top tier in the medium. If we are talking about sequels, I have nothing that can be compared to this.
- Some of the best, and most unique characters in a VN in particular their motivations, and very human behavior.
- An amazing and intricate narrative, that intertwines 2 timelines and casts (old and new). The writing quality is very high too.
- Very good production values. The art style is especially appealing on difference factor, if you are used to "overly cutesy", the OST (which was already good in the first one) got bigger, and the voice acting is great too.

Negative:
- The structure and the need for a walkthrough are still a problem, even if things were improved from its predecessor. Follow a guide, if you get exasperated, no sense ruining the experience.

Score: Kara no Shoujo - The second episode is a 9/10, but make no mistake, the only reason this is not a 10, it's because I read it "recently", and have many reference points. If I had read it earlier, there's a very good chance this would be my favorite VN. Highly recommended if you liked the first one, don't read this before the prequel.

(H-scenes are better than the first, but still not much of a reason to read this.).

The original is phenomenal, but this one is even better. Just be warned that it has a slow beginning section. The first time I played it it put me off and I ended up dropping the game, but once I gave it another shot and got passed that I was completely hooked.

One of the best VNs ever made. I just wish the 3rd would be translated already. Waiting for it is really rough because no other series has me as hooked as this one does.

The presentation in both sprites and background art is stunning. The soundtrack is near perfection for every moment. One of the most impactful and Heart wrenching stories I've ever played. Play the first game then this if you're looking for a mystery VN with subject matter so disturbing you want to delete the game and your memory of all the events. This game ruined my emotional state, and I'd play it all over again for the first time if I could. One of the best VNs I've ever played

10/10 would cry like a baby to the ending again.

A strict improvement over its predecessor. Although the pacing for the first act is slower, the story itself is satisfying and depressing in equal measure. The author has also learned from their previous entry and has managed the graphic content much better; there is significantly less, and what is there hits much harder than before. A well-done VN and absolutely worth the read.