Murder in Crayontopia

Murder in Crayontopia is a sweet, simplistic VN that has a lot to say. You start the game after being "drawn" to life in a colorful world where everyone is friends. However, when murders start happening, you slowly realize that things are not as perfect as they seem - and not everyone is as friendly with each other as they pretend to be. This game is centered around the theme of conformity vs individuality, and it features a lovable cast of morally grey characters. There is no on-screen violence, but the game feels straight-up eerie at times, which I think makes it even more enjoyable. My only complaint is that I think the game is a little longer than it needs to be, and the sheer amount of dialogue makes it drag on at times. I was hoping for more branching paths with meaningful choices, rather than one long plotline that only branches off when you make a mistake. Still, it's a great VN and I highly recommend it <3

Wow. Okay, where to begin with this! This is my first review on Steam, and I'm writing it in hopes of two things: I want more people to experience this story, and I want to give my love to the developers. When I grabbed this game, I did it due to the unique and nostalgic art style. I absolutely adore that it's all hand-drawn, and in crayon. I also did not expect to become ridiculously invested in the story, the characters, the world, the LORE! Hands down, Murder in Crayontopia has become one of my favorite story experiences ever. I explored every avenue of dialogue that I possibly could and kept trying everything I could until I discovered all of the endings. The "true" ending did not disappoint. This game genuinely did affect me - I really felt invested in the characters, and I did tear up a couple of times, and that's extremely rare for me. I don't want to keep going on and on, but I adored it. The music and my own hundreds of questions and ponderings of other things I want to know have really stuck in my head even a while after completing it, and I desperately would love to have more of this world and story! I want to know what happens next, whatever that may be. I say this with all seriousness devs, you created something that I did not expect to love so much, and something that has really touched me. This is, again, my first review on Steam, and my first "perfect game" where I unlocked all the achievements. Please let me help work on the sequel!! Not even joking! I would be honoured. TLDR; Brilliant, flawless writing with quite literally no spelling mistakes that I could find, even after exhausting most of the dialogue. Engaging and emotional story with great and loveable characters. Not what you would expect from first glance; a hidden gem. NOT FOR CHILDREN. <3

Colorful, sweet, heartfelt, just a smidge gruesome in the most engaging way. I love this game!! Despite the murder mystery theme it's a very cozy play. More chapters than just an evening session, I want to keep playing it until I get all the achievements. This is the most fun I've had with a visual novel in ages, and that's one of my favorite genres. Even when slides were static the writing brought the imagery to life. I would love to see more from Purple Basil!