Entergram’s Higurashi When They Cry Hou is adding a new DLC, Higurashi When They Cry Origin, for its PlayStation 4 and Nintendo Switch versions. The DLC will launch on June 22 in Japan, priced at JPY$3,410.
The DLC introduces an array of new features to enrich the visual novel, including a new Origin Mode, which modifies the scenario to match the single-episode structure of the original games. Dialogue has been re-recorded to align the presentation closely with the classic games.
It also implements a feature allowing players to switch between character portrait artwork in Origin Mode. Players can choose between PC Mode, which showcases character sprites illustrated by Ryukishi07, and CS Mode, featuring character sprites from the console release. This option is accessible in the game’s settings.
Additionally, the DLC brings the bonus scenario “Mehagashi-hen” (Woman-Stripping Chapter), which was originally included with “Higurashi When They Cry Hou+” for PC, to the consoles for the first time, complete and fully voiced. Only Console Mode can be used for this scenario.
A new opening movie for Higurashi When They Cry Origin was also revealed, showcasing both the PC Mode or Console Mode, featuring the theme song “OriginalZ,” by Japanese singer Zakkuro Motoki with lyrics by Kanae Sakura and Zakkuro Motoki.
Higurashi When They Cry Hou is the latest PC visual novel release in the Higurashi When They Cry series. The first 8 chapters, comprising the Question Arcs and Kai, are currently available on Steam with English translation. Entergram later released a console version under the same name on Nintendo Switch and PlayStation 4 in 2018 and 2019 respectively, which has been shipping over 300,000 units.
