As some of you may or not know, over here at Horror Society we enjoy playing Identity V over on our twitch channel – and at our own playing leisure. Yet some of you may not know that the game franchise has already had three instalments of a stage play. Titled “The Identity V Stage Play”, the Japanese production is based on the characters and plot of the online game. The production company’s official has stated that the theatrical performance is approved by the game company ‘NetEase’ but the theatre company created its own plot astray from the original writing. Whereas some fans may be frustrated by this variation, it also offers insights into the game’s beloved characters in a different context.
The three episodes have a varied performance style. Episode 1 and 3 have a similar structure of a hunter’s side (Side H) and a survivor’s side (Side S). A choice that is reminiscent of gameplay in the online game as the player can choose to either play as a Hunter or a Survivor. A choice in which Identity V strains the consumer morality once again, the rich backstory of the game touches upon ideas of innocence and conscience, suggesting that neither the hunters or survivors are entirely good or bad as they each have their hang ups and redeeming qualities. A perspective that is conveyed through these ‘Sides’. On the other hand, Episode 2 focuses on a 3 stories shared between Hunter and Survivor. For example, Side A is part of the story that follows the game’s poster girl Emma (The Gardener) and Hunter Robbie (Axe Boy). Plus, Side B and C feature a similar narrative however with a different combination of Survivor and Hunter.
As an avid cosplayer I was first intrigued by the costume and make-up department of the play. I can only say that the team nailed bringing these games characters to life, the company have dozens of photos and videos of the actors backstage playing about as their chosen character – I highly recommend you check them out. The costuming even features some of the skins you can buy or unlock in game, some that fans of the game would be able to recognise on stage.
Outside of the game’s lore that much like the detective in game, have to piece together yourself. The stage play offers a linear plot that takes place in the Identity V universe, as mentioned before it does deviate from some of the game’s storylines it is still classed as canon. Each of the episodes of the stage play are said to be released on blu-ray in May. However, unless you’re fluent in Japanese you may struggle with the dialogue. I’m eagerly waiting for a translation to be released so I can follow this fantastic instalment from the Identity V franchise.
The fact that a once niche online multiplayer game has been interpreted into a stage play is exciting. A video game to theatre production transition is not a typical occurrence, but I for one am happy to see it happen. Many more beloved series could undergo the same treatment and I’m sure us the avid fans will be eager to consume and critique them in turn.
Stay sleuthy Detectives!
-Drew
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