Tengoku Struggle: Strayside (2022)
Game Description:
In "Tengoku Struggle: Strayside," Rin Enma, the adopted daughter of King Enma, ruler of the underworld, is on a mission to recapture "jailbreakers"—souls who have escaped hell to the living world. With the help of Goemon and other punished souls, Rin ventures into the human realm to restore order. However, the team faces unexpected challenges as a mysterious singer-songwriter expresses interest in joining their quest. Is this enigmatic figure an ally or a foe? As Rin navigates the complexities of her mission, she must discern friend from foe while confronting the moral ambiguities of justice and redemption in a world where the lines between good and evil blur.
Game Details
Platforms:
Nintendo Switch
Genres:
Adventure, Visual Novel
Game Mode(s):
Player Perspective(s):
Developer:
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Publisher:
ESRB Age Rating Summary:
Tengoku Struggle -Strayside- is rated T for Teen by the ESRB with Alcohol and Tobacco Reference, Blood, Fantasy Violence, Language, and Sexual Themes. This is a visual novel in which players assume the role of a Hell Guardian trying to capture Hell's escaped prisoners. A handful of still-screen images can depict violence and blood: a character slashing men off-screen, with screaming sounds; a character burning to death; a character with blood-splattered clothing/face; blood splashes on the screen. The game contains sexual references in the dialogue (e.g., “That night, I was defiled by many other monks, right in front of him”; “…[T]o give a woman honor means to drag them into their bed”; “We went and had so much sex right away”; “Take off your panties, then put your hands against the wall.”). Dialogue also references alcohol (e.g., being drunk/wasted; wine, sake, booze), as well as tobacco (e.g., "He took out a cigarette and savored a puff."). The words “sh*t” and “a*shole” appear in the game.
Content Warnings:
Alcohol and Tobacco Reference, Blood, Fantasy Violence, Language, Sexual Themes
Interactive Elements:
In-Game Purchases:
Parental Notes
The sentiment among parents is mostly negative when it comes to letting kids play Tengoku Struggle: Strayside. The game contains strong language, including words like “sh*t” and “a*shole.” Violence is depicted through still-screen images showing blood and intense scenes, such as characters being slashed or burned. The game also includes mature themes, with sexual references in dialogue and mentions of alcohol and tobacco use. Many parents feel the content is too mature for younger audiences and recommend it for teens 16 and older due to its graphic and suggestive nature.
Why Your Kid Might Like Tengoku Struggle: Strayside
In "Tengoku Struggle: Strayside," the intriguing storyline and unique setting draw teens into a world where the boundaries between good and evil are blurred. The game's narrative, centered around Rin Enma's mission to recapture escaped souls, offers a mix of action and moral dilemmas that resonate with a teenage audience. The characters, including the mysterious singer-songwriter, add layers of complexity and intrigue, keeping players engaged as they navigate the challenges of the underworld and the human realm. The game's themes of justice and redemption provide a thought-provoking experience that appeals to those who enjoy exploring deeper narratives.
The gameplay mechanics, reminiscent of popular Souls-like games, offer a challenging yet rewarding experience that many teens find appealing. The combat system requires strategic thinking and skill, providing a sense of accomplishment when overcoming difficult obstacles. The cooperative elements, where players team up with characters like Goemon, encourage teamwork and strategy, enhancing the overall experience. The game's atmospheric design and immersive world-building further contribute to its appeal, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a mix of action, strategy, and storytelling in their gaming adventures.