Mirror 2: Project X stands out as an indie RPG adventure game that merges match-3 puzzle mechanics with choice-driven storytelling in a visual novel format. Set in a world of supernatural beings and parallel dimensions, it puts you in the role of Naoto Jinguji, a researcher studying unique entities like a captive succubus named Leah. The Home - Accessories DLC enhances this experience by adding customizable jewelry options for characters in the relaxation-focused Home Mode, letting you personalize appearances with rings, bracelets, necklaces, and headpieces.
Gameplay
In Mirror 2: Project X, core gameplay centers on match-3 battles where you connect at least three gems of the same type to score points and overcome challenges. The system includes five regular gems and six special gems, adding layers of strategy to each encounter. These puzzles tie directly into the narrative, as your choices in dialogues and events influence battle conditions and outcomes. The game uses cel-shading visuals built on Unreal Engine 4 to create immersive parallel worlds, blending puzzle-solving with story progression. Mechanics emphasize decision-making that shapes character fates and world events, requiring thoughtful approaches to both combat and conversations.
Beyond puzzles, exploration and interaction play key roles, especially in unlocking content through resource gathering. This setup creates a loop of engaging in battles to advance the plot while managing resources for broader customization and relaxation elements.
Game Modes
Story Mode forms the narrative heart of Mirror 2: Project X, offering a choice-driven experience across parallel worlds. In the current Early Access version, it includes the first six chapters, with plans for a total of twelve in the full release, estimating 12 to 24 hours of playtime. Your decisions here affect story branches and integrate with match-3 battles to resolve conflicts.
Challenge Mode combines roguelike elements with match-3 puzzles, presenting endless enemy waves in an early version format. It focuses on survival and strategy, with projected playtime of 50 to 100 hours once complete, rewarding players with resources usable elsewhere in the game.
Home Mode serves as a relaxation simulator on Dodai Island, where you interact with unlocked characters from Story Mode, such as the vampire Ivy Treat or the frost dragon girl Lynn. It allows photo posing in various locations, outfit changes, and accessory applications, supported by Steam Workshop for model replacements.
Customization and Updates
Customization shines in Home Mode, where resources from Challenge Mode unlock characters, skins, and areas. Players can pose figures, adjust clothing, and add trinkets for personalized scenes. The Home - Accessories DLC expands this with 21 items, including four rings, three bracelets, seven necklaces, and seven headpieces, applicable to all characters, with more planned through updates.
The game remains in Early Access, launched in January 2022, with initial plans for 16 to 24 months of development. However, updates have been sparse, with the last one occurring over three years ago, leaving it in an incomplete state.
Is It Worth Playing?
Mirror 2: Project X has garnered mostly negative feedback overall, with 111,611 reviews reflecting disappointment, often tied to unmet expectations from its predecessor. English-language reviews sit at 47 percent positive from 2,429 entries, while recent reviews are very negative at 12 percent positive over the last 30 days. Many players appreciate the match-3 mechanics and visual novel aspects but criticize the lack of polish and adult content present in earlier series entries.
For those drawn to indie puzzle adventures with supernatural themes and light RPG elements, it offers a unique blend at a low entry point, especially if you enjoy customizing characters in a relaxed setting. However, the stalled development and incomplete features make it less appealing for anyone seeking a fully realized experience. If match-3 battles and choice-based stories intrigue you without high demands for ongoing support, it could provide some entertainment, but temper expectations given the current state.
