Based on the literary works of prolific mystery novelist Kyoutarou Nishimura, Super Express Satsujin Jiken (Blue Train Murder Case) stands as a sophisticated entry in the Famicom’s extensive library of command-style adventure games. Released in 1988 by Pony Canyon, the title casts players as a detective tasked with solving a complex homicide aboard a luxury locomotive. Unlike the more action-oriented titles typical of the era, this game emphasizes deduction, witness interrogation, and careful examination of pixelated environments, effectively translating the "travelling mystery" subgenre into an interactive 8-bit format.
The gameplay is strictly menu-driven, requiring players to select from a list of Japanese commands such as "Talk," "Examine," and "Move." While the interface is clean, the logic required to progress can be notoriously rigid, often requiring the player to trigger specific flags in a precise order to move the narrative forward. Visually, the game utilizes the Famicom's limited palette to create a surprisingly moody atmosphere, with character portraits and detailed train interiors that convey a sense of claustrophobia and tension. The difficulty lies not in mechanical skill but in the player's ability to decipher clues and navigate the linguistic nuances of the investigation.
For Western collectors, the game remains an intriguing curiosity that is unfortunately hampered by a high language barrier. Without a strong grasp of Japanese, the intricate plot involving Inspector Totsugawa—a staple of Japanese pop culture—is virtually inaccessible. However, for those who can navigate the text or use translation guides, it offers a rewarding glimpse into the evolution of the visual novel genre. It is a slow-burn experience that prioritizes storytelling over spectacle, making it a definitive "cult" title for enthusiasts of vintage Japanese adventure gaming.
