Unravel a Century of Secrets in The Centennial Case: A Shijima Story

Released on May 12, 2022, The Centennial Case: A Shijima Story is a unique FMV (Full Motion Video) adventure that blends historical mystery with cinematic drama. Developed by h.a.n.d. and published by Square Enix, this title offers an immersive experience that transports players through different eras of Japanese history to uncover the truth behind a bloodstained family lineage.

A Multi-Generational Mystery

The narrative follows Haruka Kagami, a successful mystery novelist, as she is invited to the Shijima family estate at the base of Mt. Far Fuji. The investigation begins with the discovery of a hundred-year-old skeleton on the property, an event that disrupts the prestigious cherry tree succession ceremony. As the patriarch, Ryoei Shijima, prepares to name his successor, a sudden and shocking poisoning occurs during a tea ceremony, thrusting Haruka directly into the center of a modern-day crime.

However, the investigation does not stay confined to the present day. To solve the current murder, players must delve into the past, tracing a string of interconnected tragedies that have plagued the Shijima family for a century. The story unfolds across three pivotal time periods:

  • 1922: When the first tragedy struck the family estate.
  • 1972: A period of intrigue set within a Tokyo nightclub.
  • 2022: The present-day investigation where all threads finally converge.

Gameplay Mechanics and Detective Work

As an FMV adventure, the gameplay relies heavily on observation and deduction. Players take on the role of a detective, utilizing live-action footage to piece together complex puzzles. The gameplay loop is structured into three distinct phases designed to simulate a classic investigation:

  • Incident: Navigating the crime scene and witnessing the unfolding events.
  • Reasoning: Analyzing collected clues and examining evidence to form hypotheses.
  • Solution: Using logic to present findings and reveal the culprit.

A standout feature of the gameplay is the ability to switch between characters during investigations. This allows players to scrutinize suspects closely, observing their movements and expressions to spot "shifty" behavior—a mechanic that brings a sense of tension similar to watching a high-stakes crime drama.

Notable Features and Atmosphere

The Centennial Case: A Shijima Story leans heavily into the tropes of television murder mysteries, offering a presentation that is both dramatic and occasionally campy. The game explores deep themes of legacy, the mystery of the "Tokijiku" (a legendary fruit said to grant eternal youth), and the weight of family secrets. With its high-fidelity live-action footage, the game provides a cinematic experience that feels more like an interactive TV series than a traditional scripted adventure.

Platform Availability and Accessibility

The game is available on both PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5. The PS5 version is optimized for next-gen hardware, supporting features such as the DualSense wireless controller's trigger effects to enhance immersion. For existing owners of the digital PS4 version, a free upgrade to the PS5 edition is available.

Who Is This Game For?

This title is a must-play for fans of narrative-driven adventures and classic detective fiction. If you enjoy the "whodunit" reveal tropes found in crime procedurals, or if you have an interest in historical settings and layered, multi-generational mysteries, The Centennial Case: A Shijima Story provides a compelling, interactive journey through time.