Mango Factory and publisher Akupara Games have announced that the first episode of their upcoming murder-mystery adventure Kumitantei: Old-School Slaughter will launch on April 23, 2026, for PC.
The episodic title places players inside the mysterious Janus Institute, where sixteen elite students known as the Absolute Class of ’89 must survive a deadly experiment built around paranoia, investigation, and betrayal. The game draws inspiration from mystery adventure titles like Danganronpa: Trigger Happy Havoc, blending character relationships with investigation and courtroom-style debates.
A Deadly Experiment for the Absolute Class
Within the game’s alternate Empire of Japan, earning the title of an Absolute represents the highest level of prestige and recognition. Absolutes are individuals considered unmatched in their field, whether that’s an Absolute Barista, Absolute Beekeeper, or countless other specialized talents.
However, those achievements offer little protection once the Class of ’89 becomes trapped within the strange halls of the Janus Institute. In this locked, unsettling environment, prestige gives way to survival as the students are forced to endure the mysterious Apathy Experiment.
Players will interact with fellow classmates, uncover their personal stories, and determine who can be trusted as tensions escalate and murders begin to occur.
Relationships That Shape the Trial
Like many narrative-driven mystery games, Kumitantei places a strong focus on building relationships with classmates. During Free Time Events, players can speak with other students, learn more about their backgrounds, and even give them gifts to strengthen bonds.
These interactions reward players with Skill Cards, which can be used later during debates and trials. However, every conversation carries risk. Pushing too hard or choosing the wrong approach might create enemies rather than allies.
As the story unfolds, alliances can shift rapidly, turning friends into suspects and suspects into unexpected allies.
Investigation, Deck Building, and Retro Minigames
When a classmate is murdered, players must explore the environment and examine crime scenes to gather evidence. These discoveries become critical during Clinical Trials, where players present clues, challenge contradictions, and determine the truth behind each crime.
The game also introduces a deck-building element, allowing players to combine Skill Cards earned through friendships and exploration to create powerful strategies for debate sequences.
Outside of the main story, players can participate in side activities such as the Kitty Catcher, a gift-grabbing machine used to obtain items for classmates, and several retro-inspired arcade minigames that pay homage to classic gaming.
Class Begins This April
The first episode of Kumitantei: Old-School Slaughter launches April 23, 2026, exclusively on PC. Players interested in the mystery adventure can wishlist the game now on Steam ahead of its debut.
