Review: The Darkest Files for PC

Whew, where do I even start with “The Darkest Files”? Seriously, this game’s like throwing yourself into post-war Germany with Esther Katz—yes, we’re talking Nazis on trial. Heavy stuff, for sure. Important too, but let’s not jump the gun; this game is like a halfway genius with a tendency to trip over its shoelaces.

Right off the bat, the storytelling is raw, maybe the strongest part. Imagine peeling back layers of history—real investigations from way back. You’re solving jigsaws, not just for kicks, but to dig up horrors tucked away by all the red tape and blank faces. The voice acting? It hits you, smack dab. They even kept German voices in the English version, which is kinda cool and adds that “real deal” vibe.

Visually, it’s got this graphic novel meets noir comic look—cel-shaded, blues and yellows that pop like they jumped right outta some post-war cartoon. Maybe it’s over my head, but hey, it looks good and fits.

Playing the game feels like detective-ing 101—grab clues, talk to folks, connect the dots, nail the bad guys. It’s not about screaming “objection!” more like connecting dusty papers and old voices. Takes its sweet time too, which might feel slow, but maybe it’s on purpose. Or maybe not—hard to tell.

Now, here’s the kicker—it’s short. Like a two-piece puzzle. You can finish it quicker than you’d think, just like that. Two cases, six hours, and suddenly it’s like you’re left hanging, wanting more. Could’ve done with a bit more meat, if you ask me.

Can we talk about the interface? Ugh, honestly, it’s like trying to find your way with a broken compass. Pages disappearing, magically (seriously, where do they go?), and bookmarks not helping much. Frustrating, yes, but you kinda roll with it.

Yet, despite its hiccups, “The Darkest Files” dives into rare waters—educational while gripping. Makes you squirm a bit thinking about justice and all. Compare it to those flashy, empty games out there—well, it’s doing more, that’s for sure.

Overall, yeah, it’s got the historical courtroom drama thing nailed down. Storytelling? Sharp. Comic visuals? Right on point. Voice acting? Solid. But, oh boy, those bugs and that short lifespan—such a tease, honestly. Still, if you’re down for some serious plots, this one’s worth a shot.

And yeah, played this off a retail copy handed over by the publisher. So, there you have it.