Explore the issue of domestic violence in He Beat Her

He Beat Her. is a visual novel in which you play a lawyer defending a young client accused of domestic violence. This minimalist game gives you very few options to help your client; get used to bad endings. As you replay the game, though, you’ll learn more about your client and his accuser, which could help you finally crack the case. 

A bleak look at a dark subject

Like most visual novel games, He Beat Her. doesn’t really have a lot of what would traditionally be called gameplay. It was originally created for a game jam about “running out of power,” and the client’s helplessness is mirrored by the limited power you have as a player. You can type your actions into the game’s text box; if you’re unclear on what actions are available, the help button can give you clues. Nonetheless, it will probably take you several tries to figure out the right path to take to reveal the game’s secret. Fortunately, the game itself is very short. The graphics of this visual novel are moody and noir-ish, supporting the generally depressing and difficult theme. Some players may dislike the sometimes perfunctory way this short game handles tough issues.

Compelling but uneven

He Beat Her. deals with difficult, dark themes, but if that interests you and you like visual novels it can still make compelling gaming.