Kuroinu Redux

About

Kuroinu Redux is a branching visual novel where political intrigue and sudden betrayal drive a dark fantasy narrative. You follow Vult, a mercenary leader who abandons the Seven Shields Alliance, led by an elven deity figure, mid-campaign and sides with the very enemy they fought to defeat. The story unfolds through dialogue choices, relationship builds, and strategic decisions that shape outcomes across multiple endings. Set in a war-torn continent, the game balances tactical map mechanics with dense character arcs and moral dilemmas. The game’s sharp twist on hero archetypes and layered storytelling have earned it a 78 on Metacritic. Players note its detailed worldbuilding and unexpected plot shifts, particularly the protagonist’s rapid defection to the dark elf queen. With 18 listed endings on IGDB and a runtime averaging 30+ hours, it rewards careful decision-making. Anime-inspired art and full voice acting add polish, though some note pacing dips in mid-game exposition. A polarizing but ambitious take on the genre.

Storyline

Eos, the western plains of the continent of Serenus— With the dark-elven queen’s influence finally waning, the centuries-long war between the allied races and her demon army seems to be entering its final phase... Desperate to end the bloodshed once and for all, the Seven Shields Alliance—seven strongholds along Eos’s northernmost border united by an elven reincarnation of the Goddess Larentia—seek out the assistance of the protagonist Vult and his Black Dog Mercenaries. However, the young Vult wastes no time in betraying them, moving his headquarters to the realm of the dark elf Queen Olga herself! Shock, panic, indignation, then grief... Eos’s inhabitants cannot believe their fate at the hands of this treacherous “hero” as he leads his minions into their towns and villages, and even the lands of former friends and allies.