Join Azami Fukurai at the Urban Myth Dissolution Center, where she tackles curses, creatures, and anomalies. Read our review to see what it did well, what it didn't do well, and if it's worth buying.

Urban Myth Dissolution Center Review Overview

What is Urban Myth Dissolution Center?

Urban Myth Dissolution Center (abbreviated as UMDC), developed by Hakababunko and published by Shueisha Games, is a single-player psycho-detective mystery adventure game. Within the titular Urban Myth Dissolution Center, a privately owned institution that specializes in researching, collecting, and handling paranormal phenomena tied to urban legends—both online and offline—players take on the role of Azami Fukurai, a rookie investigator with the ability to perceive the memories of places through special glasses. Under the guidance of her colleagues, Jasmine and their director Ayumu Meguriya, Azami investigates various cases involving otherworldly relics and entities, aiming to uncover the truth behind each urban myth.

The game centers around detective work and investigation. Players will gather evidence, analyze social media posts, and interact with various characters to unravel the mysteries at hand. Key to the gameplay is Azami’s ability to perceive ghosts through her glasses, which likely provides insights into the cases.

Urban Myth Dissolution Center releases this February 12, 2025 for PC, Nintendo Switch, and PlayStation 5. The game is presented in a pixel art style with psychedelic visuals to complement the game’s paranormal investigation theme.

Urban Myth Dissolution Center features:
　⚫︎　Visual Novel
　⚫︎　Psychological Horror
　⚫︎　2D Pixel Art Style
　⚫︎　Story Rich Mystery
　⚫︎　Point and Click Detective Game

For more gameplay details, read everything we know about Urban Myth Dissolution Center's gameplay and story.

Steam		Nintendo		PlayStation
Price	$17.99]

Urban Myth Dissolution Center Pros & Cons

Pros	Cons
Incredibly Beautiful Visuals A Compelling Story From Start to Finish A Soundtrack You Can Listen to All Day Hits All The Right Horror Notes	No Voice-Acting Incredibly Easy

Urban Myth Dissolution Center Overall Score - 82/100

Urban Myth Dissolution Center flips the script—rather than a visual novel adapting into anime, it feels like an anime brought into a Visual Novel. With its episodic structure—complete with an opening and ending theme—it fully embraces the cinematic experience, drawing you into a gripping paranormal mystery. The eerie visuals, haunting soundtrack, and wild plot twists kept me on edge the whole way through. I do wish the characters had voice acting and the detective gameplay offered a fair bit of challenge, but the story is so well-crafted that it’s easy to overlook those flaws.

Urban Myth Dissolution Center Story - 10/10

Imagine The X-Files meets DanDaDan—a wild blend of urban myths, ghosts, and cryptic creatures wrapped in a perfect balance of horror, thriller, drama, and even comedy. Its episodic format follows a cast of quirky, supernaturally gifted detectives solving case after case, each one more intriguing than the last. But just when you think you’ve figured it out, the overarching plot takes a turn for the bizarre, keeping you hooked and second-guessing with its unpredictable twists. If you’ve ever gone down a conspiracy theory rabbit hole, this story captures that exact feeling—never dull, never predictable. With such a rich world and deep lore, this absolutely deserves a sequel.

Urban Myth Dissolution Center Gameplay - 7/10

Urban Myth Dissolution Center blurs the line between visual novel and anime, delivering an experience that feels more like an interactive series than a traditional game. Its point-and-click detective mechanics, reminiscent of Ace Attorney, create an engaging mystery-solving loop, though it leans heavily on the easier side—rarely punishing mistakes or offering complex challenges.

Yet, what the game lacks in difficulty, it makes up for in atmosphere and storytelling. The thrill of uncovering clues, piecing together cases, and navigating a world steeped in urban legends keeps the gameplay experience compelling. Furthermore, Azumi’s clairvoyant abilities add a unique supernatural twist, elevating the detective work beyond simple logic puzzles.

Urban Myth Dissolution Center Visuals - 9/10

AAA games could learn a thing or two because who knew a collection of pixelated sprites could take me on such an emotional rollercoaster—one moment heart-wrenching, the next heartwarming, and sometimes downright terrifying. Visually, the game is dripping with style, using a carefully crafted minimalist color palette dominated by darker hues, making its most horrifying moments stand out even more. My only very minor gripe is that the point-and-click segments could have benefited from more visual variety here and there. Still, it’s a hauntingly beautiful experience that lingers long after the credits roll.

Urban Myth Dissolution Center Audio - 8/10

All I have to say is—this soundtrack is so good, I’d buy it on vinyl in a heartbeat. It’s an absolute banger, seamlessly blending synthetic, sci-fi-inspired beats that feel ripped straight from a paranormal investigation show with chilling, razor-sharp tracks that make you glance over your shoulder. Even the touches of J-pop fit perfectly, adding to the game’s distinct atmosphere. The only real downside? No voice acting. With such expressive characters, having voices would have elevated both the horror and the emotional depth of the story.

Urban Myth Dissolution Center Value for Money - 7/10

For just $18, Urban Myth Dissolution Center is an absolute steal. Its gripping story lingers in your mind long after the credits roll, sparking endless theories and discoveries on a second playthrough. The replay value is huge—especially if you're the type to obsess over intricate narratives. However, the gameplay itself is pretty barebones. As a visual novel with point-and-click mechanics, it’s definitely not for everyone. If you're looking for fast-paced action, this won’t be your cup of tea—but for story lovers, it’s a must-play.

Urban Myth Dissolution Center Review: Dandadan Meets X-Files

I can already tell that Urban Myth Dissolution Center is bound to be a viral hit, or at least a cult classic. It’s one of those games that nails its story, themes, and horror in a way that will have people talking for years. It’s the kind of game you’ll see countless video essays about on YouTube, with fans diving deep into their theories and analyses. Given the game’s focus on myths, ghosts, supernatural entities, and conspiracies, it’s only fitting that it sparks intense discussion and research from players. I truly hope it does just that because this game was a supernatural surprise that caught me off guard in the best possible way.

Gameplay and Story Overview

Urban Myth Dissolution Center is structured episodically, with each chapter delving into a different urban legend. You play as Azami, a third-year college student with the supernatural ability of clairvoyance, allowing her to see beyond the ordinary. This unique skill leads her to a part-time job at the Urban Myth Dissolution Center after an accidental mishap at Director Meguriya's office—where she’s somewhat blackmailed into joining the team. It turns out Meguriya shares a similar power called "Vision," which lets him observe things from a distance and uncover hidden forms through his clairvoyant abilities.

Meguriya gives Azami a pair of special glasses to enhance her powers, allowing her to see "Anomalies." These aren’t ghosts or creatures but remnants of the past, hidden in plain sight. With her new role at the center, Azami works alongside her co-worker and senior, Jasmine, who is often responsible for driving her to client locations.

The Urban Myth Dissolution Center is no ordinary office; it specializes in investigating both real-world and digital urban myths, unraveling mysteries that span from haunted locations to internet legends. The world of the game blends mundane urban settings with surreal, otherworldly dimensions where these myths come to life and are dissected with precision.

As Azami, you'll gather clues, analyze circumstantial evidence, and delve into clients' hidden pasts to uncover the truth behind each urban myth. These myths often lead to unexpected consequences and reveal deeper, darker truths. You'll travel to various locations—both within the center and the surrounding areas—interacting with characters and examining objects to piece together the puzzle. Dialogue plays a pivotal role in Urban Myth Dissolution Center, offering branching conversations that lead to different perspectives and potentially unlock new leads.

A unique gameplay mechanic revolves around Azami’s clairvoyance and her special glasses. By toggling between normal vision and using the glasses, she can perceive "memories" left behind in locations—residual spirits that provide valuable insights for investigations and puzzles. This power adds an intriguing layer to the game, making each investigation feel more immersive and mysterious.

The Narrative Will Keep You On the Edge of Your Seat

A visual novel lives or dies by its story, and Urban Myth Dissolution Center absolutely nails it. The narrative feels like one of those Netflix shows that you can’t stop binge-watching. I won’t spoil too much, but the way the story unfolds, with every layer peeled back, keeps you in the dark just long enough to make every revelation hit harder. There were countless moments when I thought I knew where the game was going, only to be completely blindsided as it took a totally unexpected turn.

What makes the story even more compelling is the cast of characters, all of whom are interesting and incredibly likable. Azami, in particular, is a charming protagonist you can’t help but root for. She’s thrown into a world of madness, and as a player, you relate to her because, like us, the supernatural is brand new to her. The game also maintains a steady focus on an overarching conspiracy involving tarot cards (which I won’t spoil), making the mystery even more intriguing.

Each episode grips you, but the first and last episodes really stand out. The first, with the "man under the bed," delivers jaw-dropping twists that had me rethinking everything I thought I knew. Throughout the game, I was constantly left wondering: Is it a ghost? A monster? Or something even more sinister? That uncertainty is what makes the story so brilliant—it keeps you guessing at every turn.

The horror is expertly built, and there are moments that genuinely had me on edge. I’ll never forget the scene where Azami hides under the bed, terrified of a person wielding an axe—it had me genuinely scared. But what’s great about the story is how it balances those tense, scary moments with humor and absurdity, making it feel like DanDaDan meets an anime thriller. One moment you’re terrified, the next you’re laughing at something ridiculous, and then you’re hit with a moment so emotional it might bring you to tears.

It’s an absolutely well-written story that’s nothing short of amazing. If there’s a contender for best story of the year, this game has a strong case.

A Visual and Audio Feast

The story in Urban Myth Dissolution Center is expertly brought to life through its breathtaking visuals and captivating soundtrack. I often find myself pausing just to savor the music, letting it wash over me while I admire the meticulous world design. The pixel art style is truly something to behold—its unique blend of black and blue gives off the vibe of a well-crafted manga, with occasional nods to retro gaming.

This color palette enhances the dramatic pops of red, particularly during the most spine-chilling moments that are sure to send a shiver down your spine. The character designs also deserve special mention. Each figure is so richly expressive that their personality jumps out through their appearance and interactions. Take Azami, for example—her nervous fidgeting instantly conveys her unease in this strange world, but her infectious positivity and charisma shine through, even in the face of terror.

Then there's Director Meguriya, whose cold, intense gaze and unsettling smile leave you with the feeling that he’s hiding something darker. The urban legend monsters are equally haunting, from the creepy "man under the bed" to other unsettling creatures—though I won’t spoil the details. The visuals and character designs themselves create a hauntingly beautiful experience that draws you in from start to finish.

The soundtrack is just chef’s kiss—it blends so many genres you wouldn’t think would work together, but somehow they just do. The synthetic beats mixed with horror elements? Absolute perfection. There are so many tracks that have me head-bopping and scared out of my mind at the same time. But my favorite? Hands down, the music that plays when the director calls Azami. Every time that banger kicks in, I can't help but nod along.

Voice-Acting Would Have Further Excelled the Story

While not every game needs voice acting—some visual novels manage just fine without it—Urban Myth Dissolution Center feels like one that could have really benefitted from it. The writing is stellar, and the characters are full of personality and intrigue, especially Director Meguriya.

He stands out as the most compelling character, with a mix of Death Note’s L and Light, driven by a need to uncover the truth, yet with a morally gray nature that keeps you questioning his trustworthiness. It's a missed opportunity. I get that voice acting can be costly, but even just a few key scenes—especially the intense horror moments—would have added so much more depth and atmosphere to the game.

A Detective Game That Doesn’t Require That Much Thinking

You won’t need your detective thinking cap for Urban Myth Dissolution Center—unfortunately, the game is a bit too easy. You won’t have to worry about making mistakes, like picking the wrong dialogue option or missing a key phrase during investigations, since the game just lets you try again without penalty.

While I’m not advocating for constant punishment, a little more challenge would have heightened the tension. Most of the time, the clues are fairly obvious, and the game practically guides you to the right answer. Thankfully, there’s no guide feature, but honestly, you won’t need one.

The only time I got stuck was during a social media keyword search segment, where I had to find a specific term online—but that was the exception. A punishment system could have made the mystery feel more rewarding; for example, if you fail to identify the culprit, they could eventually attack, forcing you to start over. If the game ever gets DLC or a sequel, I hope they consider adding this element to increase the stakes.

Is Urban Myth Dissolution Center Worth It?

A Game Truly Made for Story Lovers

The game takes around 10-15 hours to complete, which is ideal for the story it sets out to tell. If you’re a fan of narrative-driven games and don’t mind a point-and-click visual novel where reading takes up most of the experience, this is definitely worth the $18 price tag. However, if you're someone who prefers gameplay-heavy titles, this may not be for you.

The game doesn’t offer much challenge, and its mechanics mostly serve to enhance the story rather than provide compelling gameplay. That said, if you're on the fence, I’d still recommend trying the demo—it might just hook you. And if it does, you'll get a truly captivating narrative for a great price.

Steam		Nintendo		PlayStation
Price	$17.99

Urban Myth Dissolution Center FAQ

Does Urban Myth Dissolution Center Have a Demo?

Yes, you can download the demo on their Steam page.

Who Are the Characters and Members of the Urban Myth Dissolution Center?

Azami Fukurai

Azami Fukurai is the newest recruit at the Urban Myth Dissolution Center. Her role as a full-time, part-time member of the staff has thrown her into a world of the bizarre and unexplainable. As she delves deeper into the Center's cases, she becomes accustomed to the anomalies and oddities that are the norm for her daily work. She has the unique ability to see others' intentions and residual thoughts through her glasses.

Ayumu Meguriya

Ayumu Meguriya is a pivotal figure in the Urban Myth Dissolution Center, serving as its director. Despite his physical limitations due to a wheelchair, his extraordinary psychic abilities make him an invaluable asset. As a Level S psychic, Ayumu possesses an exceptional gift for discerning the true nature of oddities, often revealing their hidden forms through his clairvoyant powers.

Jasmine/Yasumi Tomarigi

Yasumi Tomarigi, or simply Jasmine, is a seemingly ordinary part-timer at the Urban Myth Dissolution Center. With her unmotivated demeanor and casual approach to work, it's easy to overlook her hidden talents. Beneath the surface lies a skilled operative with a surprising range of abilities. Jasmine's expertise extends to driving, close combat, and surveillance operations. Despite all of these, she maintains a laid-back attitude.

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Urban Myth Dissolution Center Product Information

Title	Urban Myth Dissolution Center
Release Date	February 12, 2025
Developer	Hakababunko
Publisher	SHUEISHA GAMES
Supported Platforms	PC, Nintendo Switch, PS5
Genre	Visual Novel, Psychological Horror
Number of Players	1
ESRB Rating	T
Official Website	Urban Myth Dissolution Center Website

Uriel Rodriguez

Writer | Gamer | Self-Proclaimed Digimon/Sujimon/Persona/Palworld/Pokémon Master