The Prison Boys

About

The Prison Boys blends narrative-driven mystery with puzzle-solving in a historical Japanese setting. You play as Tetsu Akatsuki, a police officer investigating his superior’s suspicious death inside a 12-story prison. The story unfolds through dialogue and branching choices, with frequent text-based decisions shaping character relationships and outcomes. Puzzles involve searching for items, manipulating objects, and interrogating suspects using context-sensitive actions like forcing honesty by tapping character portraits. Progress reveals hidden collectibles that expand lore, while missteps during investigations risk lowering a health meter and triggering unfavorable endings. Set during Japan’s Taisho era, the game ties real-world history to its fictionalized prison drama. With over 20 possible endings reported by players, outcomes hinge on how you balance justice, trust, and deception. The interrogation system stands out for its pressure-sensitive choices, selecting wrong answers or using items at the wrong time can derail entire storylines. Though its text-heavy pacing suits fans of slow-burn mysteries, the blend of visual novel structure and interactive puzzles creates a niche experience. The focus on character dynamics between Tetsu and his partner Nagi adds emotional weight to every decision.

Storyline

It's at the end of Taisho era. The main character, Tetsu Akatsuki witnesses an incident in 12-Story Prison which is one of hub of Secret Police… The closer he gets to the truth, the more he finds that the dark of 12-Story Prison is deep. Holding your own sense of justice in mind, solve the mysteries together with your partner! The mystery novel adventure game about the justice and friendship between Tetsu and Nagi, who put their lives at risk.