Different Settings of Jubensha: Classical, Alternative, and New Classical Explained

Jubensha games can be in different settings. Read this to find out more.

JUBENSHA GUIDE

StoryBoxed

1/30/20242 min read

Introduction:

The world of Jubensha, often involve a murder mystery that needs to be solved, can have different settings offering various narrative experiences. The settings of Jubensha game is like the phyiscs engine to video games, it set the world and rules of Jubensha and decides what can happen and what not. At its heart are three distinct settings: Classical (本格), Alternative (变格), and New Classical (新本格), each with its own unique storytelling rules and appeal. Let's dive into the essence of these settings and what they mean for players and storytellers alike. And hopefully it will be helpful if you are new to Jubensha or you want to become a creator of Jubensha.

1. Classical (本格)

Classical Jubensha is the most traditional, adhering closely to the physical realities of the human world. It claims that the methods used in its mysteries could be replicated in real life, and the deductive processes align with logical reasoning.

For example, a murder weapon that vanishes after the crime could be a melting ice dagger in a Classical narrative.

These games are particularly beloved by players transitioning from mystery novels to gaming.

Unfortunately, purely Classical murder methods are challenging to design, and top-quality scripts are rare, often mixed with other types of puzzles.

Characteristics of Classical Jubensha:

  • Realism: The scenarios are grounded in real-life situations that could conceivably happen.

  • Logic: Deductions are made through rational thinking and existing technological means.

2. Alternative (变格)

In direct contrast to Classical, Alternative refers to game set against backdrops of science fiction, fantasy, or supernatural worlds. The crimes and deductive processes in Alternative Jubensha use settings that don't exist in reality.

For instance, a ghost might possess unique abilities, or a sci-fi potion could have surreal effects, parallel universe...

For Jubensha creators, this is an opportunity to unfurl your imagination, crafting a universe where your unique rules interlock with internal logic.

Characteristics of Alternative Jubensha:

  • Creativity: The plots may involve large "brain holes," concepts that require a significant departure from traditional reasoning.

  • Supernatural Elements: Incorporation of ghosts, deities, or concepts like reincarnation that defy scientific explanation.

  • Boundless Imagination: Players are encouraged to think beyond the limits of the current scientific paradigm.

3. New Classical (新本格)

This category is more complex.

Some describe it as "Alternative backgrounds with Classical methods" or "Setting-driven reasoning," which, after researching mystery novels, seems largely accurate.

New Classical departs from the narrow confines of "whether it could actually happen," relying on the internal reality of a completely fictional story. To differentiate from Alternative, New Classical might present seemingly magical incidents, but ultimately, a relatively materialistic explanation is found.

Architectural puzzles are a classic example of New Classical, employing fantastical yet physically plausible methods like rotating buildings, inverted structures, or moving floors.

Characteristics of New Classical Jubensha:

  • Innovation: It integrates new ideas with traditional logical reasoning.

  • Speculative Elements: The mysteries may involve futuristic concepts or technologies not yet available.

  • Complexity: The stories are often more layered, offering a deeper and more intricate experience.

Conclusion:

Jubensha's beauty lies in its diversity of settings, each offering a different flavor of mystery and adventure. Whether you prefer the logical and realistic challenges of Classical Jubensha, the limitless creativity of Alternative settings, or the innovative fusion of New Classical, there's a Jubensha experience waiting for you.