Rule of Rose is one of the most unique game to date, but only a handful can enjoy it's exotic style of storytelling.
And that is the main problem of Rule of Rose: Combat. At certain times, you will find yourself swinging whatever weapon your using (may it be a fork or a sword) at an accurate angle and distance, yet not hit your enemy. Although it rarely happens, it can be the matter between life and death. And dying is a serious ouch here because savepoints (which are called Bucket Knights) are uncommon in this game. And at certain points, you wouldn't want to repeat the game from the last savepoint because the gameplay can become boring. Really really boring and repetitive. In fact, there is very little horror present on it because of it's gameplay
Luckily, you have a faithful companion: a labrador named Brown. Don't think that Rule of Rose is some sort of Haunting Ground or perhaps it's sequel. Because it's not. Brown is less useful here and is only helpful in finding hidden items by using an item in your inventory. In fact, during the crappy combat moments, it only does nothing but bark and await for his death. He can still become useful during this moments because he makes a good distraction for some enemies. However, despite the gameplay, Rule of Rose stands out as a good game. But thank the story, sound and graphics. These three help the game from becoming mediocore. In fact, it's story is very unique and very different from the other games that for each cutscene watched, you are drawn more to the game. In fact, despite the akward gameplay and combat, you find this game playable because of it's story. It's story follows Jennifer as she is led to a world isolated from adults, and is surrounded by a group of sadistic kids who call themselves Aristocrats.
The graphics look like your standard PS2 game with very good FMVs. In fact, you will probably appreciate the environment you are on. The characters look (and sound) fine,
The music is outstanding in this game. It really gives you the impression of walking in a strange environment in the 30's. In fact, many will appreciate the sour notes it plays and will appreciate the fact that it sounds like the 30's. In the end, Rule of Rose can only be enjoyable to the audience who appreciates stories in videogames and does not mind the gameplay that much. After all, Rule of Rose is very moody game. It tells a great story, accompanied by a great score and made more emotional and moody by very good graphics and cutscenes. However, it's akward gameplay and combat hinders Rule of Rose from being on the list of top horror games. However, Rule of Rose is still a wonderful masterpiece and should be played by gamers who enjoy storytelling.