"Killer7" is a unique action-adventure game developed by Grasshopper Manufacture and directed by Goichi Suda (Suda51). Released in 2005 for the Nintendo GameCube and later on other platforms, the game is characterized by its distinctive visual style that blends cel-shaded graphics with surreal environments, creating an artistic experience that stands out in the gaming landscape. Players control a group of assassins known as the killer7, each with their own special abilities, as they navigate a complex narrative involving political intrigue, terrorism, and supernatural elements.
The game's story revolves around the character Harman Smith, who is afflicted with a rare condition that causes him to exist as multiple personalities, each represented by one of the killer7. Players traverse various levels filled with combat and puzzle-solving, battling grotesque enemies known as Heaven Smiles. The gameplay features a combination of shooting mechanics and a rail-style movement system, which draws players into its episodic structure. The game's narrative unfolds through a series of engaging dialogues, cutscenes, and intricately designed settings, immersing players in a world steeped in mystery and dark themes, solidifying "Killer7" as a cult classic with its unconventional storytelling and avant-garde design.