News

Warning Issued in Sunderland Regarding Doki Doki Literature Club Game

The website of the Sunderland Echo newspaper reports that a warning has been issued through Sunderland City Council to headteachers at Sunderland schools, regarding the online Visual Novel game Doki Doki Literature Club. The warning comes from the Manchester coroner's office, which is investigating the death of a 15 year-old boy; according to the coroner, there is evidence that he had used the game.

(Spoilers for the game follow.)

According to the newspaper's report, the coroner contacted local authorities 'across the country', saying, "I believe the information is so concerning that this warrants my writing at this stage to make the local authorities aware of the issue so appropriate information can be disseminated."

The paper describes Doki Doki Literature Club, developed by Team Salvato, as a game which has cute-looking characters, but which is in fact a 'psychological horror game' with suicide themes, depictions of mental health problems and self-harm, as well as violence.

The report acknowledges that at the very start of the the game, there is a clear statement that it is not suitable for children or those who are easily disturbed. However, the report says, 'Initially the characters are cute female figures, which would appeal to youngsters.'

Thanks to Miss Bellerby for the heads-up.