When I first played "Doki Doki Literature Club," I started with the expectation of a cute visual novel and a typical dating sim. However, as I progressed further into the game, I realized just how deep and shocking of an experience it truly is.

Concept and Story
At the beginning, I met cheerful and colorful characters in the literature club; however, over time, the darker, psychologically charged side of the story emerged. This sudden shift really surprised me and kept me constantly on edge. The narrative, blending superficial sweetness with deep elements of horror, affected me both emotionally and mentally.

Characters and Relationships
Initially, I thought the characters were typical anime clichés. But as the game advanced, I discovered that each of them had unexpected secrets and dark pasts. This completely changed my perspective on the characters. Every dialogue and interaction drew me in further, and the internal conflicts they experienced enriched the story even more.

Gameplay and Structural Surprises
While playing "Doki Doki Literature Club," I encountered a structure that was very different from the traditional visual novel experience I had expected. Innovative techniques such as meta-game elements and breaking the fourth wall made me realize that my choices and interactions could lead to unforeseen consequences. This element of surprise constantly amazed and intrigued me, transcending the conventional narrative approach.

Visual and Audio Design
Despite the game's initially cheerful and vibrant graphics, I noticed that the atmosphere darkened completely as the story unfolded. While the music maintained the warm vibe at the start, it later shifted to heighten the tension and unease. The sound effects and music contributed to the psychological depth of the story, leaving me in a continuous state of uncertainty and apprehension.

Overall Assessment
In the end, while playing "Doki Doki Literature Club," I realized that what I initially thought was just a simple visual novel actually pushed my emotional boundaries and delivered a captivating and striking experience. Thanks to the unexpected twists in the storytelling, the mysterious backgrounds of the characters, and the meta-game elements, the game became an experience that went beyond the traditional genre for me. If you’re looking for an experience that challenges conventional norms, is thought-provoking, and a bit unsettling, you should definitely give this game a try. Maybe next I'll get the Plus.