Alternate Jake Hunter: DAEDALUS The Awakening of Golden Jazz

Arc System Works

Rank: #5 / 25
Released: 2018
Studio: Arc System Works
Genre: visual novel

At a glance

Alternate Jake Hunter: DAEDALUS The Awakening of Golden Jazz is a visual novel and adventure about the beginnings of detective Saburo Jinguji. After Jinguji’s grandfather, Kyosuke, is murdered in New York, Saburo travels there to sort through his belongings and memories. The investigation leads him to the word “Daedalus,” and questions about what it means and why Kyosuke was killed. Players search for clues from the character’s point of view, collect information to expand the Orchard of Your Mind, and use the thoughts it produces to work toward solving the mystery. During deeper conversations, Jinguji can change stance; the other person’s attitude and behavior then shifts, potentially revealing useful information. Developed and published by Arc System Works, the game released on Windows on Jul 4, 2019. Steam lists single-player, achievements, full controller support and Family Sharing.

Who it is for

It suits players interested in a detective story centered on clues, conversations and visualizing a character’s thought process. Its single-player format and full controller support may suit players who want to follow the investigation alone with a controller.

What is good

Clue searches use the character’s point of view
Collected information expands the Orchard of Your Mind
Stance changes affect conversation partners
Full controller support

What to know first

Steam platform listing is Windows only
Single-player only

Verdict

DAEDALUS centers its mystery on Jinguji’s search for answers about his grandfather. Point-of-view clue finding, thought visualization and stance-based conversations shape the investigation.