Higurashi When They Cry

Higurashi When They Cry (Japanese: ひ ぐ ら し の な く 頃 に ,

Hepburn: Higurashi no Naku Koro ni, lit. "When the Cicadas Cry"),
Higurashi When They Cry
known simply as When They Cry for the North American release of
the anime adaptation before 2020, is a Japanese murder mystery dōjin
soft visual novel series produced by 07th Expansion that comprises
the first two entries of the When They Cry franchise. The series
focuses on a group of young friends living in a fictional village and
the strange events that occur there in 1983.

The games are built on the NScripter game engine and the Microsoft
Windows operating system. The first game in the series, Onikakushi-
hen, was released on August 10, 2002, and the eighth and final game
in the original PC series, Matsuribayashi-hen, was released on
August 13, 2006. While the first four games carried the overall title
Higurashi no Naku Koro ni and are considered the first entry in the
When They Cry franchise, the next four games were produced under
the title Higurashi no Naku Koro ni Kai and are considered the
second entry. A bonus fan disc called Higurashi no Naku Koro ni Rei PlayStation 2 cover, featuring Rena
was released on December 31, 2006. In addition to the original series, Ryūgū
new story arcs were created in manga form and in video games for
the PlayStation 2 and Nintendo DS, in order to expand the story. The
ひぐらしのなく頃に
(Higurashi no Naku Koro ni)
original eight PC releases were released in English by MangaGamer
between 2009 and 2010. Genre Murder mystery[1][2]
Psychological
Two sets of drama CDs were produced, one by Wayuta and the other
horror[3]
by Frontier Works. Novelizations of the game series were released by
Kodansha between August 2007 and March 2009. A manga series Supernatural
adapted from the games began with eight different manga artists horror[1]
working separately on one to three of the multiple story arcs and were Game
published by Square Enix and Kadokawa Shoten. The manga was
licensed for release in English in North America by Yen Press under Developer 07th Expansion
the title Higurashi: When They Cry and the first volume was released Publisher JP: 07th Expansion
in November 2008. Following the manga's release in Japan, two (Windows)
anime television series were produced by Studio Deen and directed
by Chiaki Kon in 2006 and 2007; a third anime adaptation was JP: Alchemist (PS2,
released as an original video animation (OVA) series in 2009. The DS)
first anime series was licensed by Geneon Entertainment in English in JP: Kaga Create
2007, but the license expired in 2011. Sentai Filmworks has since (PS3, Vita)
licensed both anime seasons and the 2009 OVAs. A live-action film
adaptation of the series, directed and written by Ataru Oikawa, JP: Entergram
premiered in Japanese theaters on May 10, 2008, with a sequel (Switch, PS4)
released on April 16, 2009. A six-episode live-action television series WW: Seams (iOS,
adaptation premiered in Japan on May 20, 2016, and a four-episode Android)
sequel premiered on November 25, 2016. A new anime television
series by Passione aired from October 2020 to March 2021, and a WW: MangaGamer
sequel premiered on July 2021. Genre Visual novel
Platform Microsoft Windows
 PlayStation 2
Contents
Nintendo DS
Gameplay iOS
Plot Android
Story arcs PlayStation 3
Higurashi no Naku Koro ni PlayStation Vita
Kai macOS
Rei Linux
Matsuri Nintendo Switch
Kizuna PlayStation 4
Manga arcs Released JP: 2002 – 2014

Anime arcs WW: 2009 – 2010

Gou Onikakushi
Sotsu JP: August 10, 2002
Development WW: December 15,
Release history 2009
Adaptations Watanagashi
Drama CDs JP: December 29,
Manga 2002
Novels WW: December 15,
Anime 2009
Live action Tatarigoroshi
Music JP: August 15, 2003

Reception WW: December 15,

Visual novels 2009
Manga Himatsubushi
Anime JP: August 13, 2004

References WW: December 15,

2009
External links
Meakashi
JP: December 30,
Gameplay 2004
WW: February 28,
Higurashi When They Cry is a "sound novel", a variation of visual 2010
novel with a focus on sound and atmosphere.[4] Gameplay is Tsumihoroboshi
restricted to reading individual scenes, during which characters are
JP: August 14, 2005
displayed as static two-dimensional sprites.[5] The versions of the
game ported to home consoles additionally feature voice acting WW: April 15, 2010
provided by professional voice actors.[6] The narrative of the game is Minagoroshi
divided into separate story arcs, named "chapters", which become JP: December 30,
accessible in a sequence strictly established by the developers.[4] The 2005
narration is conducted on behalf of various characters.[7] After
WW: May 31, 2010
reading a certain amount of text within a chapter, playback ends. At
this point, the player is invited to save the game, as well as read "tips" Matsuribayashi
that reveal details of the game's setting that were not present in the JP: August 13, 2006
main story. The tips may also encourage the player to deduce the WW: July 15, 2010
reasoning behind the narrative's mysterious events.[4] The chapters of Rei
the game are divided into two categories – "question arcs" and JP: December 31,
"answer arcs". Each question arc is a self-contained story taking 2006
place in an alternate reality, while each answer arc is based within the
Hō
same scenario as a certain question arc, and help the player formulate
a more accurate vision of the events of the pertaining question arc. JP: August 17, 2014
Each chapter is assigned a "difficulty rating"[8] that indicates the Manga
complexity of the mystery. Upon completion of reading a chapter, all
previously opened tips and images of individual scenes in the form of Written by Ryukishi07
a gallery become available to the player from the main menu. In Illustrated by Karin Suzuragi
addition, the player can access a feature entitled the "Staff Room", in Yutori Hōjō
which writer Ryukishi07 discusses and examines the chapter,[9] or the Jirō Suzuki
"All-Cast Review Session", in which the characters break the fourth Yoshiki Tonogai
wall and debate about the events of the chapter. Hinase Momoyama
En Kitō
Plot Mimori
Yuna Kagesaki
Higurashi: When They Cry Published by Square Enix
takes place in the fictional
village of Hinamizawa ( 雛⾒沢 )
Kadokawa Shoten
NA
in June 1983. Shortly before English Yen Press
then, the main character, Keiichi publisher
Maebara, moves to the village Magazine Gangan Powered
and befriends classmates Mion
Gangan Wing
Sonozaki, her twin sister Shion,
GFantasy
Shirakawa, Gifu, the village used Rena Ryūgū, Rika Furude and
as the basis for Satoko Hōjō. Keiichi soon Monthly Shōnen
Hinamizawa. [10][11] learns of the village's annual Gangan
Watanagashi Festival, a Monthly Gangan
celebration to commemorate and Joker
give thanks to the local deity Oyashiro. Hinamizawa initially seems Comp Ace
calm and peaceful, but shortly before the festival, Keiichi learns that NA
English Yen Plus
for four consecutive years, people in the village have been killed or
magazine
have disappeared on the evening of the festival. These crimes remain
unsolved and have been named the "Oyashiro Curse" by the local Demographic Shōnen, seinen
populace. The day after this year's festival, police discover the corpse Original run March 24, 2005 –
of visiting freelance photographer Jirō Tomitake, who appears to November 22, 2011
have torn his throat out with his bare hands, and the charred body of
Miyo Takano, a nurse in the village clinic. In most chapters, Keiichi Volumes 38
attempts to investigate the Oyashiro Curse, only for him or one of his Light novel
friends to become paranoid and commit a crime, often the murder of
Written by Ryukishi07
someone within his circle. A few days after the festival, Rika's body
is found in the family shrine dedicated to Oyashiro, and on the same Illustrated by Karin Suzuragi
day, a cataclysmic release of swamp gas wipes out the village's Yutori Hōjō
population. Jirō Suzuki
Yoshiki Tonogai
The answer arcs reveal that each of the preceding arcs were alternate
Mimori
realities in which Rika tried to prevent her own death. As a priestess
Rato
of the Furude Shrine, Rika can communicate with the spirit Hanyū,
who served as the prototype for Oyashiro and is the ancestress of the Published by Square Enix
Furude clan. After Rika dies, Hanyū transfers her to another reality so Original run 2006 – 2007
that she may change her circumstance. Rika retains her memory of all
past realities with the exception of the final minutes of her life, which Volumes 4
prevents her from determining the cause of her fate. In the chapters Anime television series
Minagoroshi-hen and Matsuribayashi-hen, it is revealed that Miyo,
who is studying a local endemic parasitic disease in the village, is When They Cry
responsible for some of the previous crimes, and is using the Directed by Chiaki Kon
Oyashiro Curse as a cover. The disease manifests in those who move
Produced by Hiroyuki Ōmori
a distance away from the "Infection Queen", who releases a
Mika Nomura
pheromone that prevents the aggravation of the villagers' condition,
or in those who begin to experience extreme stress. Infected persons Yasutaka Hyūga
gradually lose sanity and eventually kill themselves by tearing their Written by Toshifumi Kawase
throat out. The women of the Furude clan have all acted as Infection Music by Kenji Kawai
Queens, and Rika is the sole remaining representative of her clan
after the death of her parents. Studio Studio Deen
Licensed by AUS Siren Visual
Miyo kills Rika in each reality to unleash the disease and vindicate NA Sentai Filmworks
the work of her adoptive grandfather, who was mocked and shamed UK MVM Films
by the scientific community for his thesis about the disease. After
several hundred loops, Keiichi becomes aware of them in a handful Original Chiba TV, Kansai
of flashbacks and subconsciously remembers several of his past network TV, Tokai TV
loops, which allows him to avoid several critical points where various Original run April 4, 2006 –
characters would be murdered or driven insane, and the group of
September 26, 2006
friends nearly outwits Miyo. In the final loop, the group asks Hanyū
to join them, and the spirit manages to manifest a physical body. With Episodes 26
her assistance, they stay alive long enough to prevent Miyo's plan. Anime television series
Hanyū travels back to the past to save Miyo and her father, and to
When They Cry: Kai
prevent their psychotic drive from forming.
Directed by Chiaki Kon
Produced by Hiroyuki Ōmori
Story arcs
Mika Nomura
In the Higurashi games, there are several story arcs, the original eight Takema Okamura
of which are referred to as either question arcs or answer arcs. The Written by Toshifumi Kawase
answer arcs generally recapitulate the events of the corresponding
Music by Kenji Kawai
question arc, but from a different perspective, using the change of
protagonist to solve various mysteries and come to a different Studio Studio Deen
conclusion. Each of the eight original games for the PC represented Licensed by AUS Siren Visual
separate arcs of the overall storyline. Apart from the main question NA Sentai Filmworks
and answer relationship, the story of the arcs are not directly UK MVM Films
connected, although a multitude of parallels exist which allow the
observant reader to gain extra insight into the mystery. Original Chiba TV, Kansai
network TV, Tokai TV

Higurashi no Naku Koro ni Original run July 6, 2007 –

December 17, 2007
The Higurashi: When They Cry ( ひぐらしのなく頃に , Higurashi Episodes 24
no Naku Koro ni) games form what are referred to as the question
Original video animation
arcs. These first four games of the series were meant to give the
player a sense of the world where the story takes place and introduce When They Cry: Nekogoroshi
the mysterious circumstances surrounding the village of Hinamizawa. Chapter
Since there are no concrete answers given to the questions that the
Directed by Chiaki Kon
story presents in these arcs, the question arcs allow the player to form
his or her own opinions about the events taking place in the village. Produced by Hiroyuki Ōmori
Each question arc game contains all of the previous question arcs. Mika Nomura
Onikakushi-hen ( ⿁隠し編 , "Demoned Away Chapter") Takema Okamura
The chapter introduces the player to the world of Written by Toshifumi Kawase
Higurashi no Naku Koro ni. The player is shown the
simple rural life of the village, the after-school club Music by Kenji Kawai
activities, and the friendships of the main characters. Studio Studio Deen
However, things take a sinister turn after the
Released July 27, 2007
Watanagashi Festival, when Keiichi discovers what his
new friends have been concealing from him. The Runtime 23 minutes
chapter implies that Rena and Mion are the villains. Episodes 1

Watanagashi-hen ( 綿流し編, "Cotton Drifting Chapter") Novel series

The player should have an overall idea of how life in the Written by Ryukishi07
village resembles. Once again, the chapter begins for
Illustrated by Tomohi
the Watanagashi Festival again marking the start of the
bad events. An ancient curse strikes and a pair of sisters Published by Kodansha
are not what they seem. Shion Sonozaki makes her first Imprint Kodansha Box
appearance in the chapter, while Mion is portrayed as
the villain. Original run August 2007 –
March 2009
Tatarigoroshi-hen ( 祟殺し編 , "Curse Killing Chapter") Volumes 17
Keiichi and Satoko develop a brother-sister relationship.
When Satoko's abusive uncle returns to the village, Live-action film
Keiichi attempts to help Satoko with drastic measures. Directed by Ataru Oikawa
However, as more people die, it is clear he is not the
Produced by Takeshi Oikawa
only one involved. The spotlight shines on Satoko Hōjō
as the "victim". The chapter implies that Keiichi is a Written by Ataru Oikawa
villain. Music by Kenji Kawai

Himatsubushi-hen ( 暇潰し編 , "Time Killing Chapter") Studio Geneon Universal

Entertainment
Five years before the first three chapters, Tokyo police
investigator, Mamoru Akasaka, investigates a Oyashiro-Sama
kidnapping of a politician's grandchild around the Partners
village. Soon, he too becomes implicated in the
mysteries of the village. The chapter focuses on Rika Released May 10, 2008
Furude as being the key part of the mystery. Runtime 105 minutes
Original video animation
Kai When They Cry: Rei

The Higurashi: When They Cry Kai ( ひぐらしのなく頃に解 , Directed by Toshifumi Kawase
Higurashi no Naku Koro ni Kai, When the Cicadas Cry: Solution) Produced by Hiroyuki Ōmori
games form what are known as the answer arcs. The last four games Mika Nomura
released in the series, were, in contrast to the question arcs, meant to Takema Okamura
answer all of the questions presented in the first half of the series.
Written by Toshifumi Kawase
These arcs can be considered the "solutions" of the previous arcs.
Each answer arc game contains all of the previous answer arcs. Music by Kenji Kawai

Meakashi-hen ( ⽬明し編 , "Eye Opening Chapter")

Studio
Licensed by
Studio Deen
AUS Universal/Sony
Meakashi-hen is the answer arc corresponding to
NA Sentai Filmworks
Watanagashi-hen. The chapter consists of events very
UK
similar to those of Watanagashi-hen told from the MVM Films
perspective of Shion. After Satoshi kills his aunt, the Released February 25, 2009 –
chapter implies that Shion is a villain.
August 21, 2009
Tsumihoroboshi-hen ( 罪滅し編 , "Atonement Chapter") Episodes 5
Tsumihoroboshi-hen is the answer arc corresponding to Live-action film
Onikakushi-hen. Unlike Meakashi-hen, Tsumihoroboshi-
hen's story is drastically different from the plot of its Higurashi no Naku Koro ni: Chikai
question arc. In Tsumihoroboshi-hen, Rena experiences Directed by Ataru Oikawa
a situation similar to Keiichi's in Onikakushi-hen, as she
Produced by Takeshi Oikawa
makes a terrible mistake and becomes distrustful of her
former friends. It is the first chapter with a (seemingly) Written by Ataru Oikawa
happy ending, although the tips reveal an evil twist. Music by Kenji Kawai

Minagoroshi-hen ( 皆殺し編 , "Massacre Chapter") Studio Geneon Universal

Entertainment
On the surface, Minagoroshi-hen is the solution to
Tatarigoroshi-hen; however, it answers most of the major Oyashiro-Sama
common mysteries of the previous arcs. It is told from the Partners
perspective of Rika Furude. Most notably, the true
Released April 18, 2009
identity of the murderer is finally revealed in
Minagoroshi-hen. After Minagoroshi-hen, one more effort Runtime 106 minutes
is needed to seal the story into a happy ending. Original video animation

Matsuribayashi-hen ( 祭囃し編 , "Festival Accompanying Higurashi no Naku Koro ni: Kira

Chapter") Directed by Hideki Tachibana
With all pieces of the puzzle in place, it's up to the
Produced by Yoshihito Danno
characters to join forces in order to defeat the culprit and
stop them from destroying the village. Matsuribayashi- Satoshi Nagaoka
hen is a "Good End" in which the tragic events that Satoshi Fukao
occurred during June 1983 in the previous arcs are Takema Okamura
averted.
Written by Toshifumi Kawase
Music by Kenji Kawai
Rei Tomoki Kikuya

Three extra chapters were included in a fan disc named Higurashi: Studio Studio Deen
When They Cry Rei ( ひぐらしのなく頃に礼 , Higurashi no Naku Released July 21, 2011 –
Koro ni Rei, When the Cicadas Cry: Gratitude), two of which were January 25, 2012
newly created. Higurashi no Naku Koro ni Rei was released on
December 31, 2006. Episodes 4
Original video animation
Saikoroshi-hen ( 賽殺し編 , "Dice Killing Chapter") Higurashi no Naku Koro ni:
Saikoroshi-hen is an epilogue of Matsuribayashi-hen,
Outbreak
which takes place two months later in August 1983. Rika
is apparently killed by a truck and wakes up in a different Directed by Toshifumi Kawase
world, where none of the tragic events occurred in the Produced by Masayuki Iida
main series: Keiichi is absent from the village, Rena's
Satoshi Fukao
parents did not divorce, the dam project was resolved
smoothly, Satoshi stays with Satoko and Rika's parents Shigeto Suzuki
are alive. However, the club never formed, meaning Takema Okamura
Rika has no friends, she gets bullied by Satoko, Hanyū Written by Toshifumi Kawase
is absent, Rika is not revered as the reincarnation of
Oyashiro, and the village will soon be submerged Music by Kenji Kawai
underwater. Rika has to choose between staying in that Studio Studio Deen
world or killing her own mother, which will enable her to
leave that sinless world. Released August 15, 2013
Runtime 52 minutes
Batsukoishi-hen ( 罰恋し編, "Penalty Loving Chapter") Episodes 1
 A slapstick dream story in which Keiichi and the Soul Television drama
Brothers fight against the girls through the club
punishment games. The chapter was originally an Directed by Tōru Ōtsuka
epilogue titled Otsukaresama which came with Tarō Miyaoka
Meakashi-hen, but it was deemed too irrelevant and silly Produced by Atsushi Nagauchi
and was removed from subsequent chapters.[12] Motoko Kimura

Hirukowashi-hen ( 昼壊し編 , "Daybreak Chapter")

Written by
Tatsuya Itō
Tōru Hasegawa
Hirukowashi-hen is based on Higurashi Daybreak.
Keiichi and Rena spent time together, until Rena Yō Hosaka
accidentally swallows something during her usual Studio BS SKY PerfecTV!
treasure hunting. According to Rika, the seal of the
sacred "Fuwarazu Magatama" pairs was broken, and Original BS SKY PerfecTV!
Rena had one of them. The magatama holds a network
mysterious magical powers in which a person that has
Original run May 20, 2016 –
the red magatama will blindly fall in love with anyone
with the white one. December 16, 2016
Episodes 10

Matsuri Anime television series

Higurashi: When They Cry – Gou
Three original chapters were created for the PlayStation 2 version
Higurashi no Naku Koro ni Matsuri ( ひぐらしのなく頃に祭 ,
Directed by Keiichiro Kawaguchi
When the Cicadas Cry: Festival), by Alchemist. Produced by Takayuki Nagatani
Jōtarō Ishigami
Taraimawashi-hen ( 盥回し編 , "Rotation Chapter") Yūkō Hirata
An alternate beginning chapter, at first glance, this Makoto Nakamura
additional "question arc" is a retelling of Onikakushi- Hirotaka Kaneko
hen. However, this chapter, in fact, contains the events of
Satoru Shimosato
Watanagashi-hen. After learning the secrets of
Hinamizawa, Keiichi decides to ignore everything and Tomoyuki Ōwada
enjoy his peaceful school life; this action leads to a Takema Okamura
tragic series of events. Shion Sonozaki is the villain of Written by Naoki Hayashi
the chapter, while Mion becomes the victim. Mion
survives and is shown Rena's blood stained hat. Mion Music by Kenji Kawai
talks to Ooishi about the incident, but dies shortly after. Studio Passione
The scenario is actually a "punishment", given when
you deliberately try and avoid getting into any of the Licensed by Funimation
SA/SEA Medialink
scenarios in the story (except one, as it is actually
difficult to get into on purpose), and makes it clear to the Original Tokyo MX, BS11,
player that they cannot simply avoid the tragedies
network SUN
around them and expect a happy ending.
Original run October 1, 2020 –
Tsukiotoshi-hen ( 憑落し編 , "Exorcism Chapter") March 19, 2021
Although Tsukiotoshi-hen does not provide many Episodes 24
answers since it relates what went wrong in
Watanagashi-hen/Meakashi-hen and Tatarigoroshi-hen, Anime television series
it is still considered an answer arc. In order to save Higurashi: When They Cry – Sotsu
Satoko, Shion, Keiichi and Rena decide to kill Teppei.
But after the murder is done, Rena starts to act strangely, Directed by Keiichiro Kawaguchi
and Keiichi thinks he hears Oyashiro talking to him. Produced by Takayuki Nagatani
Mion notices the change in her friends' behavior and Jōtarō Ishigami
takes Shion's place to find out why they are acting this Yūkō Hirata
way. Later on, Satoko develops Hinamizawa Syndrome
Makoto Nakamura
and kills Shion, before killing herself.
Miotsukushi-hen ( 澪尽し編 , "Canal Drying Chapter") Hirotaka Kaneko
An alternate ending to the main series, the chapter name Satoru Shimosato
澪標
Miotsukushi is a pun on miotsukushi ( , marks in a Tomoyuki Ōwada
water channel) and mi o tsukushi (⾝を尽くし), a Takema Okamura

conjugation of mi o tsukusu (⾝を尽くす, to give one's Written by Naoki Hayashi

all). The pun is known in Japanese poetry such as Music by Kenji Kawai
Man'yōshū and Ogura Hyakunin Isshu. After finding out
Studio Passione
who the real murderer is, Rika and Keiichi decide to put
an end to the whole mystery, but they are in a different Licensed by Funimation
situation than Matsuribayashi-hen. Before they can do SA/SEA Medialink
anything, they have to solve other people's problems
first. The problems of Watanagashi/Meakashi-hen, Original Tokyo MX, BS11,
Tatarigoroshi-hen, and Tsumihoroboshi-hen are met network SUN, AT-X
here, and all of them must be solved. The arc solves all Original run July 1, 2021 –
the mysteries of the series, adds a few new ones, and present
gives the origins of both Hanyū and Hinamizawa
syndrome. The story development of this arc in the fourth Episodes 4
Nintendo DS game Higurashi no Naku Koro ni Kizuna Other
has slight differences from the original PlayStation 2
version. The conclusion of Tomoe's story, continued from
the third DS game Rasen, was added to Miotsukushi- Higurashi Daybreak (fighting
hen, but had no connection with the PlayStation 2 game)
version's ending. While there were very few choices in
the previous answer arcs, this arc contains several
choices that can lead to a bad ending if the wrong ones are picked.

Kizuna

Four original chapters were created for the Nintendo DS version Higurashi no Naku Koro ni Kizuna ( ひぐら
しのなく頃に絆 , When the Cicadas Cry: Bond), by Alchemist.

Someutsushi-hen ( 染伝し編 , "Dye Following Chapter")

The new question arc reveals in Higurashi no Naku Koro ni Kizuna. It seems to be a retelling
of Onisarashi with new characters and a few minor differences. In this chapter, the events of
Onisarashi play out with the exception of Tomoe added to the equation, and Akasaka and
Oishi being absent, although Oishi is mentioned, resulting in a different ending. The major
difference is that this chapter's ending is a "bad ending" instead of a "good ending" like in the
original storyline, with Natsumi dying at the end instead of being saved by Akira.

Kagebōshi-hen ( 影紡し編 , "Silhouette Spinning Chapter")

A new chapter in Higurashi no Naku Koro ni Kizuna Dai Ni Kan Sō. The version of
Onisarashi-hen is told through the eyes of Tomoe Minami, a policewoman that is
investigating the strange occurrences happening all over Japan. Akasaka and Oishi are
present in this chapter, as well as Tomoe's younger sister, who is also a police officer, and
another male officer. The chapter has a "good ending" like the original manga chapter, but
with different events causing it. Natsumi attacks Chisato, one of her friends, putting her in the
hospital, where she later talks with Akasaka. After the seemingly unpreventable murder of
Natsumi's family, Chisato meets Natsumi on the hospital roof, and after a little struggling,
manages to calm Natsumi down, and comforts her.

Tokihogushi-hen ( 解々し編, "Untangling Chapter")

 A new chapter in Higurashi no Naku Koro ni: Kizuna Rasen. Tomoe Minai and her sister
make another appearance, along with a new blue haired girl named Nagisa Ozaki. Ōishi
Kuraudo and Rena Ryūgū return in this chapter.[13] The chapter explores Rena's past in
Showa 57 (1982).

Kotohogushi-hen ( ⾔祝し編 , "Congratulating Chapter")

A new chapter in the final installment of Higurashi no Naku Koro ni Kizuna Dai Yon Kan
Kizuna. The chapter explores Hanyū's past as Hai-Ryūn Yeasomūru Jeda and the origin of
Hinamizawa. Characters appeared in this arc such as Riku Furude, one of Rika's ancestor
and the Shinto Priest of Furude House, who fell in love with Hai-Ryūn; and Ōka Furude, the
child of Hai-Ryūn and Riku Furude.

Manga arcs

These side stories are original chapters serialized in manga form which supplement the games and partially
continue the story.

Onisarashi-hen ( ⿁曝し編 , "Demon Exposing Chapter")

In Onisarashi-hen, a young girl named Natsumi is haunted by the aftermath of the
Hinamizawa Disaster. Soon after her grandmother — a former Hinamizawa resident — tells
her of Oyashiro's curse, Natsumi finds that her own hands have become covered in blood.
Akasaka and Oishi also feature in the story. Onisarashi-hen was later included as part of the
Nintendo DS remake Higurashi no Naku Koro ni Kizuna as Someutsuhi-hen, with some
changes.

Yoigoshi-hen ( 宵越し編 , "Beyond Midnight Chapter")

This chapter is an epilogue of one of the "possible outcomes" of Tsumihoroboshi-hen, in
which Rena burned the school and killed Mion and her friends. Many years later, in 2006, the
lock has been lifted and a group of five meet by coincidence, one of them claiming to be
Mion, and get dragged into the supernatural aspects of the "Village of the Dead." Tips for this
chapter can be read via mobile phone at Gangan Mobile. This chapter was included as part
of Higurashi no Naku Koro Ni Kizuna: Dai-San-Kan Rasen for the Nintendo DS.

Utsutsukowashi-hen ( 現壊し編 , "Reality Breaking Chapter")

A prequel to Meakashi-hen. Shion is sent away to the all-girls school, St. Lucia Academy, for
confinement. One day, a male teacher's body was found in the school swimming pool and the
first discoverer, Mizuho Kōsaka, is summoned to the chairman's office to report the details.
Shion hears rumors about how Mizuho's grandmother is after Mizuho's life and the girl is
taking refuge in the school, so Shion approaches the aloof Mizuho. The chapter started
serialization in the December 2006 issue of Comp Ace.

Kataribanashi-hen ( 語咄し編 , "Anthology Chapter")

A collection of award-winning reader-submitted stories compiled by Ryukishi07. Some of the
stories have been adapted into manga and drama CDs.

Kokoroiyashi-hen ( ⼼癒し編 , "Heart-Healing Chapter")

An epilogue to Matsuribayashi-hen where Rika and the others, including Hanyū, go on a
summer vacation to heal their hearts, so to speak, after everything they have been through.

Anime arcs

Yakusamashi-hen ( 厄醒し編, "Disaster Awakening Chapter")

 The arc was introduced in the second season, airing before Minagoroshi-hen and
Matsuribayashi-hen.[14] Ryukishi07 requested the staff to include important plot details that
were left out from the first season so as to tie the two seasons together. The issue of
Hinamizawa's secrets is resolved early in this scenario, allowing the other characters to
attend school without further issue. The story is told from the perspective of Satoko as she
grows increasingly concerned about Rika, including speaking with Hanyū alone about her
own inevitable murder, and her vain attempts to change her fate. Satoko later undergoes a
situation containing elements from Tatarigoroshi-hen and Taraimawashi-hen, from
discovering Rika's body to surviving the Great Hinamizawa Disaster, and dying in the
hospital after understanding the secret behind Rika's murder.

Gou

The anime series Gou introduces five new arcs that parallel the initial chapters while posing a new mystery for
the characters to overcome.

Onidamashi-hen ( ⿁騙し編 , "Demon Deceiving Chapter")

At first, Onidamashi-hen appears to be a retelling of Onikakushi-hen. However, it is revealed
that the events of this arc take place several years after Matsuribayashi-hen, and that Rika
has mysteriously been sent back to June 1983. When Keiichi begins to become suspicious
that others are hiding things from him, Rika encourages him to trust his friends.

Watadamashi-hen ( 綿騙し編 , "Cotton Deceiving Chapter")

Similarly to Watanagashi-hen and Meakashi-hen, this question arc focuses on the Sonozaki
twins and their relationship with Keiichi. When Shion and Keiichi sneak into a sacred place
on the night of the Watanagashi Festival, people close to them begin to disappear. Rika
attempts to intervene and change her fate.

Tataridamashi-hen ( 祟騙し編 , "Curse Deceiving Chapter")

This scenario is meant to parallel Tatarigoroshi-hen and Minagoroshi-hen as Satoko's
abusive uncle returns to Hinamizawa. Keiichi and his friends attempt to bring the village
together to save her.

Nekodamashi-hen ( 猫騙し編 , "Cat Deceiving Chapter")

This arc is told from Rika's perspective as she endures several tragedies in several different
worlds. Nekodamashi-hen provides answers to some of the mysteries and reveals the
identity of the culprit.

Satokowashi-hen ( 郷壊し編 , "Village Destroying Chapter")

This arc follows Satoko and Rika, during the period between Matsuribayashi-hen and
Onidamashi-hen. The arc has a large emphasis on the relationship between Satoko and
Rika as they grow older and the world around them begins to change. It answers many
mysteries introduced in the previous arcs.

Sotsu

The anime series Sotsu contains arcs that provide new perspectives and answers to the mysteries from Gou.

Oniakashi-hen ( ⿁明し編 , "Demon Revealing Chapter")

Oniakashi-hen is the answer arc corresponding to Onidamashi-hen, showing the events of
the latter chapter from the perspectives of Rena and Satoko. After taking drastic measures to
 ensure her family's happiness, Rena becomes increasingly suspicious that her friends know
more than they let on.

Watakashi-hen ( 綿明し編, "Cotton Revealing Chapter")

Development
The series is the first visual novel series produced by 07th Expansion.[15] The game director and scenario
writer for the series are Ryukishi07, who also drew all of the character illustrations. Background images were
taken from photographs taken by Ryukishi07, his younger brother Yatazakura, and Kameya Mannendō.
Programming was worked on by Yatazakura, who worked on the main structure, 4U who worked on the
intermission and Tips, and BT who worked on the mini games. The games were designed using the game
engine NScripter. The music of Higurashi was provided by various music artists including both professionals
and dōjin artists, including Dai, the composer of most of the music found in the answer arcs.

Ryukishi07 wrote in 2004 how he was influenced by Key's works during the planning of Higurashi no Naku
Koro ni.[16] Ryukishi07 played Key's games as a reference, among other visual novels, and analyzed them to
figure out the reason why they were found to be so popular. He figured that the secret was due to how the
stories would start with ordinary, enjoyable days, but then a sudden occurrence would happen to lead the
player to cry due to the shock value. He used a similar model for the basis of Higurashi but instead of leading
the player to cry, Ryukishi07 wanted to scare the player with the addition of horror elements. In this way,
Ryukishi07 wished to be in some way associated with Key who he described as a "masterpiece maker."[16]

In an interview in the December 2008 issue of Yen Press's Yen Plus manga anthology, Ryukishi07 stated that
Higurashi had its origins from an unpublished theater script called Hinamizawa Teiryūjo ( 雛⾒沢停留所 , lit.
Hinamizawa Bus Stop) he had written a few years before the first Higurashi game was released.[17] When he
decided to rewrite the script and release it, he wanted to build upon "the contrast between a fun, ordinary life,
and something terrifying and out of the ordinary." Ryukishi07 was greatly influenced by the worlds of Seishi
Yokomizo when developing the universe of Higurashi. Ryukishi07 had decided "early on to design the story
so that the truth comes to light by looking at several overlapping stories," though he originally planned to
release it as a single game due to initially believing he could finish the story in a single year.[17]

The word higurashi is the name of a kind of cicada.[18] Naku means "to make sound" ( 鳴く
), specifically
referring to those sounds made by non-human organisms. According to Ryukishi07, the red Na ( ) in the な
logo is an official part of the title.[19]

Release history

The first game of the Higurashi: When They Cry visual novel series, titled Onikakushi-hen, was released on
August 10, 2002. The second game Watanagashi-hen was released on December 29, 2002. The third game
Tatarigoroshi-hen was released on August 15, 2003. The fourth game Himatsubushi-hen was released on
August 13, 2004. The first four games are part of the question arcs, and the following four games, under the
title Higurashi no Naku Koro ni Kai, are part of the answer arcs. The fifth game Meakashi-hen was released
on December 30, 2004. The sixth game Tsumihoroboshi-hen was released on August 14, 2005. The seventh
game Minagoroshi-hen was released on December 30, 2005. The eighth game Matsuribayashi-hen was
released on August 13, 2006. A fan disc titled Higurashi no Naku Koro ni Rei was released on December 31,
2006. A second fan disc titled Higurashi no Naku Koro ni Hō (
[20]
ひぐらしのなく頃に奉 , When the Cicadas
Cry: Gift) was released on August 17, 2014. In January 2021, 07th Expansion announced a remastered
version titled Higurashi: When They Cry Hō + in development for a Q3 2021 release.[21] Each chapter keeps
the same cast of main characters and general premise but unfolds in a different manner. Each of the chapters
give valuable answers, hints, and clues as to the mysteries of the previous installment while at the same time
bringing forth even more mysteries.

The eight original PC games were released in English by MangaGamer under the title Higurashi: When They
Cry starting with the first four games released in December 2009 and the last four released in monthly intervals
starting in February 2010.[22] MangaGamer's release of the visual novels does not include several background
music tracks and two bonus features specific to the original Japanese version: the music room and a minigame.
The eight original PC games were also released in French by Saffran Prod under the title Le sanglot des
cigales, starting with the first two games released together in November 2009.[23] The Japanese company
Seams has done releases for iOS devices in Japanese and English. The Japanese version includes all eight
games.[24] The English version is based on the translation by MangaGamer and as of May 2012 includes the
first five games.[25][26] A remastered version of Onikakushi-hen from Higurashi: When They Cry Hō was
released by MangaGamer on Steam on May 15, 2015 for Windows, OS X and Linux.[27] The updates include
a re-translation, previously cut music tracks and content, the original Japanese text,[28] and alternative
character art by illustrator Kurosaki.[29]

A dōjin game named Higurashi Daybreak, based on the Higurashi series and featuring an original scenario by
Ryukishi07, was developed by Twilight Frontier, the creators of Immaterial and Missing Power and Eternal
Fighter Zero. The gameplay is that of a versus third-person shooter, in which most of the characters of the
main Higurashi series are playable. Higurashi Daybreak was first released on August 13, 2006, and an
expansion pack followed on April 22, 2007.

A video game console port for the PlayStation 2 was released as Higurashi no Naku Koro ni Matsuri ( ひぐら
しのなく頃に祭 , When the Cicadas Cry: Festival) by Alchemist on February 22, 2007.[30] Higurashi is the
third dōjin game to be ported to a video game console; the first was Hanakisō by HaccaWorks*,[31] and the
second was Melty Blood by French-Bread and Ecole.[32] Although Higurashi was the first to have a video
game console port announced, its long development time made it the third to be released. Due to the popularity
of Matsuri, a second enhanced PlayStation 2 port, known as Higurashi no Naku Koro ni Matsuri: Kakera
Asobi (ひぐらしのなく頃に祭 カケラ遊び , When the Cicadas Cry: Festival - Playing with the Pieces),
was released on December 20, 2007. It was sold as an append disc to the original Matsuri and as a standalone
game. It contains all of Matsuri's content, in addition to Matsuribayashi-hen from the original games and other
bonus content.[33]

A series of four games for the Nintendo DS under the collective title Higurashi no Naku Koro ni Kizuna ( ひぐ
らしのなく頃に絆 , When the Cicadas Cry: Bond) with new story arcs are being developed by
Alchemist. [34] 祟
The first, with the added title Tatari ( , Curse), was released on June 26, 2008 containing the
first three chapters from the question arcs, and a new chapter entitled Someutsushi-hen, with its story based on
想
the Onisarashi-hen manga series. The second, with the added title Sō ( , Idea), was released in November
螺
2008.[35] The third game in the series, with the added title Rasen ( , Spiral), was released in March 2009.
絆
The final game, subtitled Kizuna ( , Bond), was released in February 2010.

A PlayStation 3 and PlayStation Vita port titled Higurashi no Naku Koro ni Sui ( ひぐらしのなく頃に粋 ,
When the Cicadas Cry: Style) and published by Kaga Create was released in Japan on March 12, 2015. This
edition features all scenarios from previous versions, in addition to full voice acting, new songs, CGs,
minigames and functions.[36] A Nintendo Switch port titled Higurashi: When They Cry Hō and published by
Entergram was released in Japan on July 26, 2018. It includes the previous content covered by Sui, in addition
to three new scenarios adapted from the Windows version of Hō.[37] A PlayStation 4 port of Higurashi: When
They Cry Hō was released by Entergram in Japan on January 24, 2019.
A mobile phone RPG game titled Higurashi no Naku Koro ni Mei ( ひぐらしのなく頃に命 , When the
Cicadas Cry: Life) and planned by D-techno, written by Kiichi Kanō and developed by Smile Axe was
released on September 3, 2020.[38] The story stars a new protagonist, Kazuho Kimiyoshi, who visits
Hinamizawa in the year 1993. After gaining the power to fight monsters called "Tsukuyami" by Tamurahime-
no-Mikoto, Kazuho somehow wanders into Hinamizawa of 1983.

Adaptations

Drama CDs

Several sets of drama CDs based on the series have been released, mainly distributed by Frontier Works and
Wayuta.[39] The latter's releases differ from other media adaptations in that they make extensive use of the
source material from the original sound novels, and sometimes include original songs from dai's albums. The
main eight sound novel arcs have been adapted into a total of eleven CD releases, published by
HOBiRECORDS and distributed by Wayuta and Geneon Entertainment, between May 27, 2005 and March
9, 2012; Minagoroshi-hen and Matsuribayashi-hen have been split into two and three separate releases
respectively.[40][41] Each chapter is 200–300 minutes long and contains 3-6 discs. The CDs feature remixes of
the games' music and sound effects and the voice cast members have been chosen by Ryūkishi07 himself,
though some of them have been changed for the anime and PS2 release due to scheduling conflicts.[42] The
booklets included with the CDs contained passwords that, if entered on the official site, unlocked downloads
to audio files that adapted the TIPS for each of the arcs. In response to fan requests, audio TIPS for the first
five arcs later became available on drama CDs named Append Disc 01, released on December 29, 2005 at
Comiket 69, and Append Disc 02, released on October 26, 2007.[43][44] HOBiRECORDS has also released
three drama CDs that adapted several fan-submitted stories from the Kataribanashi-hen novel/manga
anthology arc. The first CD was released on April 25, 2007, the second on May 9, 2008, and the third on
April 24, 2009.[45][46][47] Frontier Works released several CDs, starting with an anthology piece called
Anthology Drama CD 1 on December 22, 2005, followed by a second CD titled Anthology Drama CD 2 on
March 24, 2006, and a third CD titled Anthology Drama CD Higurashi no Naku Koro ni featuring Umineko
no Naku Koro ni on May 27, 2009. In addition to the anthologies, there have also been numerous character
song CDs and DJCDs released during special events such as at Comiket, magazine subscriptions, and
anime/film/game pre-order bonuses.

Manga

There are eight main titles in the Higurashi manga series, spanning the four question arcs and the four answer
arcs. Each question arc manga are compiled into two bound volumes. The first two answer arc manga are
compiled into four volumes, meanwhile Minagoroshi-hen is compiled into six volumes, and Matsuribayashi-
hen into eight. The manga uses multiple artists between the various arcs. Karin Suzuragi drew Onikakushi-
hen, Tsumihoroboshi-hen, and Matsuribayashi-hen, Yutori Hōjō drew Watanagashi-hen and Meakashi-hen,
Jirō Suzuki drew Tatarigoroshi-hen, Yoshiki Tonogai drew Himatsubushi-hen, and Hinase Momoyama drew
Minagoroshi-hen. Another manga entitled Kokoroiyashi-hen ( ⼼癒し編 , Heart Healing Chapter) is drawn by
Yuna Kagesaki and began in Kadokawa Shoten's Comp Ace on August 26, 2008.[48] The manga series was
licensed by Yen Press for English distribution in North America under the title Higurashi: When They Cry.
The manga was initially serialized in Yen Press' Yen Plus anthology magazine, the first issue of which went on
sale on July 29, 2008. The first English volume of the manga was originally planned to be sold in early
2009,[49] but was released in November 2008.[50]

There are three side stories related to the main Higurashi story, but with new characters. The first, named
Onisarashi-hen ( ⿁曝し編 , Demon Exposing Chapter), is drawn by En Kitō and was serialized between
March 2005 and July 2006 in Comp Ace. The next, entitled Yoigoshi-hen ( 宵越し編 , Overnight Chapter), is
drawn by Mimori and was serialized between in GFantasy between 2006 and 2007. The last side story is
known as Utsutsukowashi-hen ( 現壊し編 , Reality Breaking Chapter) is also drawn by En Kitō and was
serialized in Comp Ace between 2006 and 2007.

A manga adaptation of Higurashi's precursor Hinamizawa Teiryūjo began serialization in the debut issue of
Square Enix's Big Gangan magazine, sold on October 25, 2011.[51]

Novels

There are four light novels which contain additional illustrations by five different artists, and seventeen
novelizations of the separate visual novel arcs.[52][53] Each novel is written by Ryukishi07. The light novels
were all released as limited editions not sold in stores. The first one, Nekogoroshi-hen, was illustrated by Karin
Suzuragi, Yutori Hōjō, and Jirō Suzuki, and was sent out to those who bought the first volume of the manga
versions of Onikakushi-hen, Watanagashi-hen, and Tatarigoroshi-hen. One needed to send the cutout stamps
in all three of these manga by the deadline to receive this special short story. The second light novel,
Kuradashi-hen, was illustrated by Yoshiki Tonogai, Karin Suzuki, Yutori Hōjō, and Mimori. This novel was
sent out to those who bought the second volume of the manga version of Himatsubushi-hen, and the first
volumes of the manga Tsumihoroboshi-hen, Meakashi-hen, and Yoigoshi-hen. One needed to send the cutout
stamps in all four of these manga by a certain deadline to receive this special short story. The third light novel,
Hajisarashi-hen, contained illustrations by Rato, and was included with the limited edition of the PlayStation 2
game Higurashi no Naku Koro ni Matsuri. The fourth novel, Kuradashi-hen Zoku is a sequel to Kuradashi-
hen and was sent out to those who bought the second volumes of the manga Tsumihoroboshi-hen, Meakashi-
hen, and Yoigoshi-hen. One needed to send the cutout stamps in all four of these manga by a certain deadline
to receive this special short story. The light novels were published by Square Enix and released in 2006 and
2007.

Kodansha Box released 17 novelizations of the visual novel arcs with illustrations by Tomohi between August
2007 and March 2009, starting with Onikakushi-hen and ending with Saikoroshi-hen. Most of the story arcs
are divided into two volumes, except for Himatsubushi-hen and Saikoroshi-hen which are compiled into one
volume each, and Matsuribayashi-hen which is compiled into three volumes. In September 2010, editor
Katsushi Ōta confirmed on Twitter that the novelizations would be re-released in paperback editions.[54] The
paperbacks were published by Seikaisha with new cover art by Tomohi from January 12, 2011 to June 8,
2012. In 2020, the series received new paperback editions illustrated by Satoyoshimi, published by Futabasha
under the Futabasha Junior Bunko label, starting with Onikakushi-hen on October 23.[55]

Anime

The first anime series was animated by Studio Deen and produced by Frontier Works, Geneon Entertainment
and Sotsu. It is directed by Chiaki Kon, with Toshifumi Kawase handling series composition, Kyūta Sakai
designing the characters and Kenji Kawai composing the music. The season covers the four question arcs and
the first two answer arcs, and aired in Japan between April 4 and September 26, 2006, comprising 26
episodes. Most of the characters were used by the same voice actors for the drama CD series. The series is
available on DVD in Japan, France and North America (following Geneon Entertainment's licensing of the
series).[56] However, Geneon's U.S. division announced that it discontinued all ongoing anime projects in
September 2007, including Higurashi on November 6, 2007.[57] Only three of a planned six DVDs of
Higurashi were released, under the title When They Cry: Higurashi. On July 3, 2008, Geneon and Funimation
announced an agreement to distribute select titles in North America. While Geneon still retained the license,
Funimation assumed exclusive rights to the manufacturing, marketing, sales and distribution of select titles.
Higurashi was one of the several titles involved in the deal.[58] Funimation released a complete box set of the
series in August 2009. However, in August 2011, the rights to the series expired due to low sales.[59] Sentai
Filmworks has licensed both anime series.[60]
People in Japan, who had bought all nine of the DVDs of the first season, had the chance to receive a special
anime DVD entitled Higurashi no Naku Koro ni Gaiden Nekogoroshi-hen, based on the short story that was
given to those who had bought the manga.[61] Despite being a bonus for the first season (and having the first
season's opening and closing sequences), Nekogoroshi-hen featured Sakai's updated character designs from the
second season.

A continuation of the series produced by the same core staff[62] and based on one new story arc and the final
two original answer arcs of the franchise, entitled Higurashi no Naku Koro ni Kai ( ひぐらしのなく頃に解 ,
lit. When the Cicadas Cry: Solution), aired in Japan between July 6 and December 17, 2007, containing
twenty-four episodes. Sentai Filmworks has licensed the second anime series.[60] As the result of a murder
case in September 2007 in Japan involving the murder of a police officer by his sixteen-year-old daughter with
an axe,[63] as well as the Japanese media relating the case to anime such as Higurashi, the latest episode
screenings of both Higurashi no Naku Koro ni Kai and another anime at the time, School Days, were canceled
by a number of stations, due to excessive violence. However, AT-X, TV Saitama and Sun TV announced that
they would be airing the episodes as planned. Later, TV Saitama announced that they had ceased broadcasting
of Higurashi no Naku Koro ni Kai from episode thirteen onwards. Additionally, Higurashi no Naku Koro ni
Kai had its opening altered when it re-aired. Originally, a bloody bill hook cleaver (as used by Rena) was
shown halfway through (at timestamp 0:55) the opening; it was replaced with an image of a van from the
series' fictional junk yard.

An original video animation (OVA) series, entitled Higurashi no Naku Koro ni Rei (
[64]
ひぐらしのなく頃に礼 ,
lit. When the Cicadas Cry: Gratitude), was released on February 25, 2009, and is directed and written by
Toshifumi Kawase, with Kazuya Kuroda taking over Sakai's role as character designer.[65][66][67][68] The
series also started a limited broadcasting in Bandai Channel prior to DVD release.[69] Sentai Filmworks has
licensed the Rei OVAs.[60] The OVA contains three story arcs, Hajisarashi-hen, Saikoroshi-hen and
Hirukowashi-hen, with Saikoroshi-hen concluding in three episodes, and the other two arcs concluding in one
episode each. Hajisarashi-hen was originally a light novel included with the limited edition of the PlayStation
2 game Higurashi no Naku Koro ni Matsuri, and took the place of Batsukoishi-hen from the Higurashi no
Naku Koro ni Rei fandisc. Frontier Works announced another original video anime series, Higurashi no Naku
Koro ni Kira ( ひぐらしのなく頃に煌 , lit. When the Cicadas Cry: Glitter) in March 2011, to celebrate the
tenth anniversary of Higurashi no Naku Koro ni.[70] It is directed and storyboarded by Hideki Tachibana and
written by Kawase, with Tomoyuki Abe taking over Kuroda's role as character designer and Tomoki Kikuya
serving as additional music composer. An OVA film titled Higurashi no Naku Koro ni Kaku: Outbreak ( ひぐ
らしのなく頃に拡〜アウトブレイク〜 , Higurashi no Naku Koro ni Kaku ~Autobureiku~, lit. When the
Cicadas Cry: Expansion ~Outbreak~), adapted from Ryukishi07's short story "Higurashi Outbreak", was
announced in December 2012 and was later released in August 2013.[71] Sakai returned as a character
designer for Outbreak.

On January 6, 2020, 07th Expansion and Kadokawa announced that a new anime project by Passione was in
production. Akio Watanabe serves as a character designer, and Infinite serves as a producer.[72] Keiichiro
Kawaguchi is directing the series, with Naoki Hayashi handling series composition and Kenji Kawai returning
as music composer.[73] The main cast will reprise their roles.[74] The series was set to premiere in July
2020,[75] but was delayed to October 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.[76] The series aired from October
1, 2020 to March 19, 2021.[77] The series, entitled Higurashi: When They Cry – Gou ( ひぐらしのなく頃に
業 , Higurashi no Naku Koro ni Gō, lit. When the Cicadas Cry: Karma), was acquired by Funimation and
streamed on its website in North America and the British Isles, and on AnimeLab in Australia and New
Zealand.[78] In Southeast Asia and South Asia, Medialink has acquired the series, and are streaming the series
on its YouTube channel Ani-One.[79] Before episode 2 aired, the title of the anime was Higurashi: When They
Cry – New and it was marketed as a remake to the original anime series. When episode 2 aired, the subtitle
業
was changed to Gou ( , Gō, lit. Karma) and it was revealed that the anime is not actually a direct remake as
it was previously marketed to be.[80] The new series ran for 24 episodes.[81]
After Gou finished airing, a sequel, entitled Higurashi: When They Cry – Sotsu ( ひぐらしのなく頃に卒 ,
Higurashi no Naku Koro ni Sotsu, lit. When the Cicadas Cry: (Finishing, Graduation or Death)), was
announced. The series premiered on July 1, 2021.[82] Funimation will stream the series.[83] In Southeast Asia
and South Asia, Medialink has acquired the series, and are streaming the series on its YouTube channel Ani-
One.[84]

Live action

A live action film adaptation of the series entitled Higurashi no Naku Koro ni ( ひぐらしのなく頃に , also
known as Shrill Cries of Summer internationally), directed and written by Ataru Oikawa, premiered in
Japanese theaters on May 10, 2008.[85][86] The film is an adaptation of the first story arc, Onikakushi-hen.[87]
Gōki Maeda plays Keiichi, Airi Matsuyama plays Rena, Rin Asuka plays Mion, Aika plays Rika, and Erena
Ono plays Satoko.[88] The film was released in 60 theaters and earned over ¥200 million at the box office.[89]

A sequel, also live action,[90] was released in Japanese theaters on April 18, 2009 and is entitled Higurashi no
Naku Koro ni Chikai ( ひぐらしのなく頃に誓 , When the Cicadas Cry: Oath, also known as Shrill Cries:
Reshuffle internationally). The sequel is based on the Tsumihoroboshi-hen arc, but it incorporates elements
from other arcs and has a slightly different ending. The cast, including Maeda as Keiichi, is almost the same as
in the previous film, but the role of Ōishi has been changed from Tetta Sugimoto to Ren Osugi.

A live-action television series adaptation directed by Tōru Ōtsuka and starring Yu Inaba as Keiichi premiered
in Japan on May 20, 2016 on cable channel BS SKY PerfecTV!.[91][92] The cast includes the members of
NGT48.[93] A four-episode sequel premiered on November 25, 2016.[94]

Music
Unlike visual novels created by established companies, 07th Expansion did not create the music found in the
Higurashi games. The music for the question arcs consists of license free songs found on the Internet while the
music for the answer arcs was provided by dōjin music artists that were fans of Higurashi. Later, a CD album
called Thanks/you was released by the dōjin music artist, Dai; many of his tracks were used in the answer arcs.
Fans initially referred to this album as the official soundtrack. However, the actual official soundtrack has since
been released for the series, featuring a majority of the songs featured in the answer arcs. This two-disc set is,
to date, the most complete collection of songs from the games.

The first season anime's opening theme is "Higurashi no Naku Koro ni" sung by Eiko Shimamiya; it went on
sale in Japan on May 24, 2006. The ending theme is "Why, or Why Not" sung by Rekka Katakiri; it was
released on June 28, 2006. They were released as two original soundtracks. The series is composed by Kenji
Kawai and the albums were produced by Frontier Works. Volume 1 was released on July 21, 2006, and
volume 2 was released on October 6, 2006, in Japan. Three character song CDs were also released, sung by
voice actors from the anime adaptation, between March 28 and July 25, 2007.[95][96] The second season
anime's opening theme is "Naraku no Hana" also sung by Shimamiya. The first season's opening theme
includes a hidden message : the unintelligible lyrics at the beginning ("hanni hara hare hi") were generated by
reversing the phrase nigerarenain da ( 逃げられないんだ , "there's no escape"). The second season's opening
theme also includes a reversed part at the end ("ie hanann") which was made by playing backwards the
reversed bit from the first opening theme. The ending theme is "Taishō a" performed by anNina. The first
OVA season's opening theme is "Super scription of data" by Shimamiya, and the ending theme is
"Manazashi" ( まなざし ) by anNina.[97] The opening theme for the OVA Higurashi No Naku Koro Ni Kira is
"Happy! Lucky! Dochy!" by Yukari Tamura, Mika Kanai, and Yui Horie—the voice actors for Rika, Satoko,
and Hanyū, respectively. The ending theme, "Zendai Mimon Miracle Change" ( 前代未聞☆ミラクルチェン
ジ , Unprecedented Miracle Change), had four separate versions: one by Mai Nakahara, Rena's voice actor
and the others are sung by Yukari Tamura and Mika Kanai, Satsuki Yukino, Mion and Shion's voice actor, and
Yui Horie. The opening theme for Gou is "I Believe What You Said" by Asaka. Except for the first episode
that uses "Higurashi no Naku Koro ni" by Shimamiya as its ending theme, the ending themes for Gou are
"Kamisama no Syndrome" for episodes 2–17 and "Fukisokusei Entropy" for episodes 18–23 by Ayane. For
the first live-action film, a short version of the film's theme song was released on December 22, 2007, in Japan.
Once again, Shimamiya sang the song, entitled "Wheel of Fortune" ( 運命の輪 , Unmei no Wa). Shimamiya
also performed the ending theme entitled "Diorama" ( ディオラマ ).

Reception

Visual novels
Reception
Review scores
Publication Score
Famitsu 31/40[98]
APGNation 8.5/10[99]
[100]
Hardcore Gamer [101]

Over 100,000 copies of the original games were sold in Japan by 2006,[102] a feat not attained by a dōjin
game since Type-Moon released Tsukihime. Many fans attribute the game's success to the suspense and horror
the novel portrays. Fan-based community boards emerged where fans began discussing their own theories.
The popularity of the games grew exponentially as many took interest in their well-outlined script and story,
which eventually led the game to be showcased in large gaming magazines with positive reviews. With the
announcement of the live-action film adaptation of Onikakushi-hen came the news that over 500,000 copies of
the games had been sold, by August 13, 2007.[85] The enhanced PlayStation 2 port, Higurashi no Naku Koro
ni Matsuri, had sold 140,397 copies by October 11, 2007.[103] Later console releases in the series, between
December 2007 and January 2019, have sold 408,391 copies in Japan, as of February 2019,[104] bringing total
software sales to 908,391 copies in Japan.

The PS2 version received a total review score of 31/40 (out of the four individual review scores of 9, 8, 8 and
6) from the Japanese gaming magazine Famitsu.[98] The game was voted the tenth most interesting bishōjo
game by readers of Dengeki G's Magazine in an August 2007 survey.[105] Its English-language release also
received a positive reception from critics. Hardcore Gamer stated that the "writing is incredibly eerie, and
amazingly effective"[100] and concluded that "few video games make it anywhere near the skillful story
weaving present within the Higurashi series."[101] APGNation stated the "Excellent writing and music make
for an evocative reading experience."[99]

Manga

In Japan, the third volume of the manga adaptation ranked as the 19th weekly best-selling book on January 16,
2008.[106] The first volume ranked as the 18th weekly bestseller on June 10, 2008.[107] The fourth volume
ranked as the 19th bestseller on January 14, 2009.[108] In the United States, the first volume was ranked 253rd
in the top 300 graphic novels sold in November 2008 and ranked as 25th in the top 25 Manga sold in the first
quarter of 2009 release of ICv2 Retailers Guide to Anime/Manga.[109][110] The manga sold 8 million copies
by 2009.[111]
Debi Aoki of About.com stated that reading the chapters in succession as they were presented in its
serialization in Yen Plus made the story "easier to follow" and built the suspense better.[112] However, Justin
Colussy-Estes of Comic Village disagreed feeling that this structure "backfire[d]".[113] Justin Colussy-Estes of
Comic Village praised the setting for hinting at something "much darker". He also praised the structure stating
that the "mystery develops slowly" to immerse the reader in the characters and then later force the reader to
"confront the possibility that one or more of them may be [the] murderer"; a decision he described as
"clever".[113] Critics criticized the manga for using "cliché" characterizations typical of the harem
genre.[112][113][114] However, Phil Guie of Popcultureshock expressed disappointment that this
characterization "is brushed aside" for the horror as it gave the friendship between characters "real depth"
adding to the surprise of the plot twists.[115] Anime News Network's Casey Brienza praised the manga for
being an "effective" horror story as it follows an ordinary situation, a harem manga plot, which "becomes
terrifying" producing an effect that is "trashy horror at its absolute greatest".[114] However, she expressed
being frustrated by the end of the second volume as the central question remains "infuriatingly unanswered"
though still felt the manga is "wholly enjoyable and satisfying" nonetheless.[116] Brienza stated that although
the artwork is "average", the illustrator "seems to know exactly how to transition between the adorable and the
abominable—and does so with dramatic, nightmarish effect."[114] Aoki described the artwork as although
"pander[ing] to otaku fetishes" containing "generic" and "awkward" character designs, providing
"overbearing cutesiness [that] makes the secrets that the girls are hiding behind their smiles just that much
creepier."[112]

Anime

A review by The Escapist gave the anime television series a highly positive review. James Henley praised the
story, saying that each arc is interesting in its own way, but said that watching Kai was necessary to fully
understand the story. He also praised the cast of characters, and how, despite having only one main male
character, it never falls into harem stereotypes, and how each one has a unique back story, revealed in different
arcs. He criticized the dub as poor quality, but recommended the anime, mainly subbed, if one "can stomach
the brutality."[117] The Anime Almanac similarly praised the story, as a unique method of storytelling and the
art of the characters, but went to add that the "moe" design on the girls made the scary scenes less threatening.
He ultimately recommended the series.[118] Another review, from T.H.E.M Anime, was less positive, giving it
3 out of 5 stars, praising the story, but panning the sorrow of the characters and the violence, saying
"Higurashi is a hard show to watch; while it's interesting, each chapter is progressively soul-sucking and
depressing, as the characters struggle desperately to avoid grisly fates, often to no avail, multiple times." He
finished the review by saying "...Higurashi is interesting and visceral enough to be worth viewing by the more
adventurous."[119]

References
1. Speelman, Tom (November 2, 2016). "Screen & Page: Unlock the Secrets Of 'Higurashi: When
They Cry' " (https://comicsalliance.com/higurashi-when-they-cry-anime-manga-review/).
ComicsAlliance. Retrieved February 25, 2020. "Higurashi: When They Cry is a murder
mystery/supernatural horror that might sound more than a bit like Silent Hill"
2. Macdonald, Christopher (December 2, 2005). "Higurashi no Naku Koro Ni Anime" (https://www.
animenewsnetwork.com/news/2005-12-02/higurashi-no-naku-koro-ni-anime). Anime News
Network. Retrieved June 26, 2020.
3. Loveridge, Lynzee (September 19, 2017). "Japanese Netizens Choose Their Grotesque Anime
Must-Watch List" (https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/interest/2017-09-19/japanese-netizens-
choose-their-grotesque-anime-must-watch-list/.121563). Anime News Network. Retrieved
December 30, 2018.
4. Hanley, Andy. "Higurashi: When They Cry (PC)" (https://www.uk-anime.net/games/Higurashi:_
When_They_Cry_(PC).html). UK Anime Network. Retrieved March 28, 2020.
 5. Estrada, Marcus (May 22, 2015). "Review: Higurashi When They Cry Hou - Ch.1 Onikakushi"
(https://hardcoregamer.com/2015/05/22/review-higurashi-when-they-cry-hou-ch-1-onikakushi/1
49971/). Hardcore Gamer. Retrieved March 28, 2020.
『ひぐらしのなく頃に奉』 ⽉ ⽇発売。原典の『雛⾒沢停留所』などシナリオ全
6. "Switch 7 26 22
本を収録 " (https://dengekionline.com/elem/000/001/700/1700067/). Dengeki Online. March 22,
2018. Retrieved March 28, 2020.
7. Estrada, Marcus (July 3, 2018). "Review: Higurashi When They Cry Hou – Ch.6
Tsumihoroboshi" (https://hardcoregamer.com/2018/07/03/review-higurashi-when-they-cry-hou-c
h-6-tsumihoroboshi/305115/). Hardcore Gamer. Retrieved March 28, 2020.
8. Wheeler, John (2011). "The Higurashi Code: Algorithm and Adaptation in the Otaku Industry
and Beyond" (http://cinephile.ca/files/Vol7No1-FOR%20JEFF/Vol7No1-FOR%20JEFF.pdf#pag
e=26) (PDF). Cinephile. pp. 26–30.
9. Rose, John (May 2, 2011). "Higurashi: When They Cry Kai Game Review" (https://www.fandom
post.com/2011/05/02/higurashi-when-they-cry-game-review/). The Fandom Post. Retrieved
March 28, 2020.
雛⾒沢迷所案内
10. " " (http://07th-expansion.net/Soft/Map00.htm) (in Japanese). 07th Expansion.
Retrieved 2006-07-12.
ひぐらしのなく頃に 背景探索編
11. " " (https://web.archive.org/web/20060614083329/http://park17.
wakwak.com/~mahosaro/higurashi_seiti.html) (in Japanese). Archived from the original (http://p
ark17.wakwak.com/~mahosaro/higurashi_seiti.html) on June 14, 2006. Retrieved 2006-07-16.
12. "THEM Anime Reviews 4.0 - When They Cry - Higurashi 3 (Rei)" (https://www.themanime.org/v
iewreview.php?id=1865). www.themanime.org. Retrieved 2019-07-29.
13. "Nintendo DS Original Scenario and Dai's New Music in Higurashi no Naku Koro ni: Kizuna
Rasen" (http://www.famitsu.com/game/coming/1222204_1407.html) (in Japanese). Famitsu.
2009-02-21. Retrieved 2009-03-10.
14. "Higurashi no Naku Koro ni Kai anime arcs revealed" (http://www.famitsu.com/anime/news/200
7/04/23/681,1177333769,70718,0,0.html) (in Japanese). Famitsu. Retrieved 2007-04-27.
15. "07th Expansion Official English Portal Site" (http://www.mangagamer.org/07thexpansion/).
www.mangagamer.org. Retrieved 2019-07-29.
16. Ryukishi07 (2004-07-09). "Key's Essence is Actually...(Bitter Smile)" (https://web.archive.org/w
eb/20111007105605/http://naderika.com/Cgi/log_cbbs/logcbbs.cgi?mode=red2&namber=399&
no=1) (in Japanese). 07th Expansion. Archived from the original (http://naderika.com/Cgi/log_c
bbs/logcbbs.cgi?mode=red2&namber=399&no=1) on 2011-10-07. Retrieved 2016-10-18.
17. Thompson, Jason. "Alone in the Dark: An Interview with the Creators of Higurashi When They
Cry". Yen Plus. Yen Press (December 2008).
18. " 'Semi', Cicadas" (http://kimoto.cc/ykk/semi.html). Retrieved 2008-04-24.
19. "Ryukishi07's official Higurashi game website" (http://07th-expansion.net/Soft/Higurasi.htm) (in
Japanese). Retrieved 2006-12-27.
20. "New Higurashi no Naku Koro ni Hō Visual Novel's Opening Streamed" (http://www.animenew
snetwork.com/news/2014-06-28/new-higurashi-no-naku-koro-ni-ho-visual-novel-opening-strea
med/.76077). Anime News Network. June 28, 2014. Retrieved July 4, 2014.
お待たせ致しました！ お問い合わせの多かった「ひぐら
21. @07th_official (January 25, 2021). "
し奉」、そのリマスター版、その名も「ひぐらし奉＋（プラス）」を今夏のマスターアップ
を⽬指し製作開始します！ また、各種グッズも随時更新していきます。1/28にはオンデマン
ド印刷で痛マスクを開始予定。2021年も頑張ります！" (https://twitter.com/07th_official/status/
1353538593210331138) (Tweet) – via Twitter.
22. "MangaGamer.com Acquires Higurashi: When They Cry Visual Novels" (http://www.animenew
snetwork.com/news/2009-07-05/mangagamer.com-acquires-when-they-cry-higurashi-visual-no
vels). Anime News Network. 2009-07-05. Retrieved 2009-07-05.
23. "Le sanglot des cigales" (http://www.hinamizawa.fr/) [The Sob of Cicadas] (in French). Saffran
Prod. Retrieved March 2, 2010.
24. "Higurashi When They Cry(jp)" (https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/higurashi-when-they-cry-jp/id3
66267383). Apple Inc. Retrieved August 31, 2010.
25. "Higurashi When They Cry(Ep1)" (https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/higurashi-when-they-cry-ep
1/id383052917?mt=8). Apple Inc. Retrieved August 31, 2010.
26. "Higurashi When They Cry(Ep2)" (https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/higurashi-when-they-cry-ep
2/id383054244?mt=8). Apple Inc. Retrieved August 31, 2010.
27. "Higurashi When They Cry Hou - Ch.1 Onikakushi" (http://store.steampowered.com/app/31036
0/). Steam Store. Retrieved May 21, 2015.
28. "MangaGamer.com - Higurashi When They Cry Hou - Ch.1 Onikakushi" (http://www.mangagam
er.com/detail.php?goods_type=1&product_code=132). MangaGamer. Retrieved 2015-05-20.
29. "Announcements from Anime Expo 2014!" (http://blog.mangagamer.org/2014/07/03/announce
ments-from-anime-expo-2014/). MangaGamer. July 3, 2014. Retrieved May 21, 2015.
30. "Official Alchemist Higurashi no Naku Koro ni Matsuri homepage" (https://web.archive.org/web/
20070901054255/http://www.alchemist-net.co.jp/products/higurashi_matsuri/index_main.html)
(in Japanese). Alchemist. Archived from the original (http://www.alchemist-net.co.jp/products/hi
gurashi_matsuri/) on 2007-09-01. Retrieved 2016-10-18.
31. "Hanakisō page on animate.tv" (http://www.animate.tv/game/special/hanakisou.php). Retrieved
2007-07-02.
32. "Melty Blood Act Cadenza PS2 official website" (http://e56.info/mbacps2/index.html). Retrieved
2007-07-02.
33. "Higurashi no Naku Koro ni Matsuri: Kakera Asobi official website" (https://web.archive.org/we
b/20071011035319/http://www.alchemist-net.co.jp/products/higurashi_matsuri/kakera.html) (in
Japanese). Alchemist. Archived from the original (http://www.alchemist-net.co.jp/products/higur
ashi_matsuri/kakera.html) on 2007-10-11. Retrieved 2007-12-12.
34. "Higurashi no Naku Koro ni Kizuna introduction at the series' official website" (https://web.archi
ve.org/web/20160306232840/http://higu.biz/intro/index.html) (in Japanese). Alchemist.
Archived from the original (http://higu.biz/intro/index.html) on 2016-03-06. Retrieved
2016-10-18.
35. "Higurashi no Naku Koro ni Kizuna Dainikan Sō to be Sold in November" (http://news.dengeki.
com/elem/000/000/092/92238/) (in Japanese). ASCII Media Works. 2008-07-11. Retrieved
2008-07-11.
36. "Higurashi When They Cry coming to PS3, PS Vita" (http://gematsu.com/2014/11/higurashi-cry-
coming-ps3-ps-vita). Gematsu. November 4, 2014. Retrieved November 4, 2014.
37. Sato (July 25, 2018). "Higurashi When They Cry Hou Gets A Chilling Trailer For The Switch
Version" (http://www.siliconera.com/2018/07/25/higurashi-when-they-cry-hou-gets-a-chilling-tra
iler-for-the-switch-version/). Silconera. Retrieved July 27, 2018.
38. "Higurashi When They Cry Mei Game Set for September 3 in Japan" (https://www.crunchyroll.c
om/anime-news/2020/08/31-1/higurashi-when-they-cry-mei-game-set-for-september-3-in-japa
n). Crunchyroll. August 31, 2020. Retrieved October 1, 2020.
39. "Higurashi drama CD official website" (http://www.hobirecords.com/higurashi-cd/) (in
Japanese). 07th Expansion. Retrieved 2006-12-27.
40. "Onikakushi-hen drama CD outline" (http://www.hobirecords.com/higurashi-cd/outline/onikakus
hi.html) (in Japanese). 07th Expansion. Retrieved 2008-05-17.
41. "Matsuribayashi-hen drama CD outline" (http://www.hobirecords.com/higurashi-cd/outline/mats
uribayashi.html) (in Japanese). 07th Expansion. Retrieved 2012-03-19.
42. "Drama CD Higurashi no Naku Koro ni production notes" (http://www.hobirecords.com/higuras
hi-cd/blog/index.html#0808) (in Japanese). 07th Expansion. August 8, 2006. Retrieved
2012-03-19.
43. "Append Disc 01 drama CD outline" (http://www.hobirecords.com/higurashi-cd/outline/apend.ht
ml) (in Japanese). 07th Expansion. Retrieved 2008-05-17.
44. "Append Disc 02 drama CD outline" (http://www.hobirecords.com/higurashi-cd/outline/apend0
2.html) (in Japanese). 07th Expansion. Retrieved 2008-05-17.
45. "Kataribanashi-hen drama CD 1 official website" (http://www.hobirecords.com/higurashi-cd/outl
ine/katari.html) (in Japanese). 07th Expansion. Retrieved 2008-05-17.
46. "Kataribanashi-hen drama CD 2 outline" (http://www.hobirecords.com/higurashi-cd/outline/kata
ri2.html) (in Japanese). 07th Expansion. Retrieved 2008-05-17.
47. "Kataribanashi-hen drama CD 3 outline" (http://www.hobirecords.com/katari3/) (in Japanese).
07th Expansion. Retrieved 2009-04-24.
48. "New Gurren Lagann, Higurashi Manga to Start This Month" (https://www.animenewsnetwork.c
om/news/2008-08-05/new-gurren-lagann-higurashi-manga-to-start-this-month). Anime News
Network. 2008-08-05. Retrieved 2008-08-05.
49. "Yen Press Announces Titles to Run in Anthology Mag" (https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/n
ews/2008-04-19/yen-announces-titles-to-run-in-anthology-magazine). Anime News Network.
April 19, 2008. Retrieved 2008-04-19.
50. "Higurashi When They Cry English manga volumes" (https://yenpress.com/series-search/?seri
es=higurashi&supapress_order=publishdate-asc). Yen Press. Retrieved 2008-06-22.
51. "Square Enix Starts Big Gangan Mag with Higurashi Precursor" (https://www.animenewsnetwo
rk.com/news/2011-08-24/square-enix-starts-big-gangan-mag-with-higurashi-precursor). Anime
News Network. August 24, 2011. Retrieved August 24, 2011.
講談社
52. " BOX ：ひぐらしのなく頃に " (https://web.archive.org/web/20100331054440/http://shop.
kodansha.jp/bc/kodansha-box/topics/higurashi_q/). 2010-03-31. Archived from the original (htt
p://shop.kodansha.jp/bc/kodansha-box/topics/higurashi_q/) on 2010-03-31. Retrieved
2019-07-29.
講談社
53. " BOX ：ひぐらしのなく頃に 解 " (https://web.archive.org/web/20130225051525/http://w
ww.bookclub.kodansha.co.jp/kodansha-box/topics/higurashi/). 2013-02-25. Archived from the
original (http://www.bookclub.kodansha.co.jp/kodansha-box/topics/higurashi/) on 2013-02-25.
Retrieved 2019-07-29.
54. @FAUST_editor_J (2010-09-13). "@someru 皆さん、お待たせしました！ この冬発進する
「星海社⽂庫」は、『ひぐらしのなく頃に』（⻯騎⼠ ・ ∕ともひ）の⽂庫化を開
07 Illustration
始いたします！！ #TwiTaida" (https://twitter.com/FAUST_editor_J/status/24384083423)
(Tweet). Retrieved 2020-04-06 – via Twitter.
挿絵を描かせていただいた、双葉社ジュニア⽂庫『ひぐらしの
55. @satoyoshimi (2020-10-23). "
なく頃に』⿁隠し編が発売されました。ぜひぜひ雛⾒沢へ来てくださいまし。よろしくおね
がいします。" (https://twitter.com/satoyoshimi/status/1319600871148142598) (Tweet).
Retrieved 2020-11-23 – via Twitter.
56. "Geneon to Release When They Cry - Higurashi" (https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2
007-03-05/geneon-licenses-when-they-cry). Anime News Network. 2007-03-05. Retrieved
2009-03-22.
57. "Geneon USA to Cancel DVD Sales, Distribution by Friday" (https://www.animenewsnetwork.c
om/news/2007-09-26/geneon-usa-to-cancel-dvd-sales-distribution-by-friday). Anime News
Network. Retrieved 2007-12-16.
58. "FUNimation Entertainment and Geneon Entertainment Sign Exclusive Distribution Agreement
for North America" (https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/press-release/2008-07-03/funimation-
entertainment-and-geneon-entertainment-sign-exclusive-distribution-agreement-for-north-ameri
ca) (Press release). Anime News Network. 2008-07-03. Retrieved 2008-07-22.
59. "Funimation's Higurashi, Familiar of Zero Licenses Expire" (https://www.animenewsnetwork.co
m/news/2011-06-11/funimation-higurashi-familiar-of-zero-licenses-expire). Anime News
Network. June 11, 2011. Retrieved August 20, 2011.
60. "Sentai Filmworks Adds Legend of the Galactic Heroes, Higurashi Anime" (https://www.animen
ewsnetwork.com/news/2015-07-02/sentai-filmworks-adds-legend-of-the-galactic-heroes-higura
shi-anime/.89987). Anime News Network. July 2, 2015. Retrieved July 9, 2015.
61. "Oyashirosama.com on the special DVD" (http://oyashirosama.com/web/news/index.htm) (in
Japanese).
62. "Second anime series staff" (http://www.oyashirosama.com/web/kai/caststaff/index.htm) (in
Japanese). Retrieved 2007-03-22.
63. "Teenage girl admits killing dad with ax | The Japan Times Online" (https://web.archive.org/we
b/20121122084332/https://www.japantimes.co.jp/text/nn20070919a6.html). 22 November
2012. Archived from the original (https://www.japantimes.co.jp/text/nn20070919a6.html) on 22
November 2012. Retrieved 12 August 2020.
64. "Higurashi no Naku Koro ni Rei OVA series official website" (http://www.oyashirosama.com/we
b/rei/index.htm) (in Japanese). Studio Deen. Retrieved 2008-11-04.
65. "Third Higurashi no Naku Koro ni Season Announced" (https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/n
ews/2007-12-17/third-higurashi-no-naku-koro-ni-season-announced). Anime News Network.
Retrieved 2007-12-17.
66. "3rd Higurashi Tentatively Slated as Rei Video Series" (https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/n
ews/2008-04-30/3rd-higurashi-tentatively-slated-as-rei-video-series). Anime News Network.
2008-04-30. Retrieved 2008-04-30.
67. "3rd Higurashi Series Planned as Rei OVA This Winter" (https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/
news/2008-05-08/3rd-higurashi-series-planned-as-rei-ova-this-winter). Anime News Network.
2008-05-08. Retrieved 2008-05-09.
68. "Higurashi no Naku Koro ni Rei Video Details Announced" (https://www.animenewsnetwork.co
m/news/2008-07-23/higurashi-no-naku-koro-ni-rei-video-details-announced). Anime News
Network. 2008-07-23. Retrieved 2008-07-23.
69. "Higurashi no Naku Koro ni Rei News Page" (http://www.oyashirosama.com/web/rei/news/inde
x.htm) (in Japanese). 2009-01-28. Retrieved 2009-03-04.
70. "Higurashi no Naku Koro ni Kira Video Anime Launches" (https://www.animenewsnetwork.co
m/news/2011-03-24/higurashi-no-naku-koro-ni-kira-video-anime-launches). Anime News
Network. March 24, 2011. Retrieved March 24, 2011.
71. "Higurashi no Naku Koro ni Kaku ~Outbreak~ Trailer Posted" (https://www.animenewsnetwork.
com/news/2013-03-05/higurashi-no-naku-koro-ni-kaku-outbreak-trailer-posted). Anime News
Network. March 5, 2013. Retrieved March 9, 2013.
72. "Higurashi: When They Cry Gets New Anime Project at Studio Passione" (https://www.animen
ewsnetwork.com/news/2020-01-06/higurashi-when-they-cry-gets-new-anime-project-at-studio-
passione/.155074). Anime News Network. January 6, 2019. Retrieved January 6, 2019.
73. "New Higurashi: When They Cry Anime's Video Unveils Returning Cast, Staff, July TV
Premiere" (https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2020-03-21/new-higurashi-when-they-cr
y-anime-video-unveils-returning-cast-staff-july-tv-premiere/.157765). March 21, 2020. Retrieved
March 21, 2020.
74. "New Higurashi: When They Cry Anime Project Brings Back Cast" (https://www.animenewsnet
work.com/news/2020-01-27/new-higurashi-when-they-cry-anime-project-brings-back-cast/.155
819). Anime News Network. January 27, 2019. Retrieved January 27, 2019.
75. "New Higurashi: When They Cry Anime Delayed Due to COVID-19" (https://www.animenewsn
etwork.com/news/2020-05-21/new-higurashi-when-they-cry-anime-delayed-due-to-covid-19/.1
59788). Anime News Network. May 21, 2020. Retrieved May 21, 2020.
76. "New Higurashi: When They Cry Anime Debuts in October After COVID-19 Delay" (https://ww
w.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2020-07-06/new-higurashi-when-they-cry-anime-debuts-in-oct
ober-after-covid-19-delay/.161523). Anime News Network. July 6, 2020. Retrieved July 6,
2020.
77. "New Higurashi: When They Cry Anime's 2nd Video Reveals Episode 1's October 1 Debut,
Episode 14's January 7 Debut" (https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2020-08-20/new-hi
gurashi-when-they-cry-anime-2nd-video-reveals-episode-1-october-1-debut-episode-14-januar
y-7-debut/.163125). Anime News Network. August 20, 2020. Retrieved August 20, 2020.
78. Friedman, Nicholas (July 3, 2020). "A Dark Secret? Higurashi: When They Cry – New Arrives
on Funimation this Fall" (https://www.funimation.com/blog/2020/07/03/a-dark-secret-higurashi-
when-they-cry-new-arrives-on-funimation-this-fall/). Funimation. Retrieved July 3, 2020.
79. Pineda, Rafael Antonio (September 21, 2020). "Ani-One Simulcasts Higurashi: When They Cry
- NEW Anime" (https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2020-09-21/ani-one-simulcasts-higu
rashi-when-they-cry-new-anime/.164266). Anime News Network. Retrieved September 21,
2020.
80. Friedman, Nicholas (October 8, 2020). "Higurashi: When They Cry Scores Special
Commissioned Key Visual, "True" Anime Title" (https://www.funimation.com/blog/2020/10/08/hi
gurashi-when-they-cry-scores-special-commissioned-key-visual-true-anime-title). Funimation.
Retrieved October 8, 2020.
81. "4 More Fall Season Anime Reveal Episode Counts" (https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/ne
ws/2020-10-10/4-more-fall-season-anime-reveal-episode-counts/.165052). Anime News
Network. October 10, 2020. Retrieved October 10, 2020.
82. "Higurashi: When They Cry Franchise Continues With SOTSU TV Anime in July" (https://www.
animenewsnetwork.com/news/2021-03-18/higurashi-when-they-cry-franchise-continues-with-s
otsu-tv-anime-in-july/.170781). Anime News Network. March 18, 2021. Retrieved March 18,
2021.
83. "The Mystery Continues With Higurashi: When They Cry – SOTSU, Coming This Summer" (htt
ps://www.funimation.com/blog/2021/03/18/the-mystery-continues-with-higurashi-when-they-cry-
sotsu-coming-this-summer/). Funimation. March 18, 2021. Retrieved March 18, 2021.
84. "Ani-One July New Anime Release!!《Higurashi: When They Cry SOTSU》will be streaming on
Ani-One this July! Welcome back to the village Hinamizawa~ Double episodes premiere on 1st
July, one episode will be updated each week afterward! Streaming at 23:30 (Hong
Kong/Taiwan Time, UTC+8) on Ani-One YouTube" (https://www.instagram.com/p/CQaoQWEnk
wr/). June 22, 2021. Retrieved June 22, 2021.
85. "Higurashi Gets a Film Adaptation" (https://www.nikkansports.com/entertainment/cinema/f-et-tp
1-20070813-240910.html) (in Japanese). NikkanSports. Retrieved 2007-08-13.
86. "Higurashi no Naku Koro ni Live-Action Film in 2008" (https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/ne
ws/2007-08-13/higurashi-no-naku-koroni-live-action-film-in-2008). Anime News Network. 2007-
08-13. Retrieved 2007-08-13.
87. "Higurashi live action film production photos and information" (https://www.famitsu.com/game/n
ews/2007/08/27/103,1188216468,77091,0,0.html) (in Japanese). Famitsu. Retrieved
2007-09-02.
88. "Higurashi no Naku Koro ni film information" (https://www.famitsu.com/game/news/2007/08/13/
103,1186987182,76685,0,0.html) (in Japanese). Famitsu. Retrieved 2007-08-27.
実写映画『ひぐらしのなく頃に 誓』アニメショップ限定特典付き劇場前売り券第 弾の内容
89. " 3
が判明 " (https://www.famitsu.com/anime/news/1222602_1558.html). Famitsu. March 6, 2009.
Retrieved February 27, 2019.
90. "Live-Action Higurashi Film Sequel in the Works" (https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2
008-04-28/live-action-higurashi-film-sequel-in-the-works). Anime News Network. 2008-04-28.
Retrieved 2008-04-28.
91. "BSスカパー！オリジナル連続ドラマ 「ひぐらしのなく頃に」 " (https://web.archive.org/web/2
0160526215206/http://www.bs-sptv.com/program/2125) (in Japanese). SKY PerfecTV!.
Archived from the original (http://www.bs-sptv.com/program/2125/) on May 26, 2016. Retrieved
May 22, 2016.
92. "Live-Action "Higurashi" TV Drama Unveils Key Visual, Additional Cast & Story Details" (http://
www.crunchyroll.com/anime-news/2016/04/13-1/live-action-higurashi-tv-drama-unveils-key-vis
ual-additional-cast-story-details). Crunchyroll. April 13, 2016. Retrieved May 27, 2016.
93. "NGT48 Idols Star in Live-Action When They Cry - Higurashi Horror Show" (http://www.animen
ewsnetwork.com/news/2016-01-10/ngt48-idols-star-in-live-action-when-they-cry-higurashi-horr
or-show/.97423). Anime News Network. January 10, 2016. Retrieved January 11, 2016.
94. "Live-Action Higurashi Show Gets Sequel in November" (http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/n
ews/2016-06-25/live-action-higurashi-show-gets-sequel-in-november/.103616). Anime News
Network. June 25, 2016. Retrieved August 9, 2016.
95. "Higurashi character CD Vol. 1 listing" (https://www.amazon.co.jp/dp/B000N3SW7C/) (in
Japanese). Amazon.co.jp. Retrieved 2009-06-20.
96. "Higurashi character CD Vol. 3 listing" (https://www.amazon.co.jp/dp/B000PWQQCY/) (in
Japanese). Amazon.co.jp. Retrieved 2009-06-20.
97. "OVA Higurashi no Naku Koro ni Rei Theme Song Information Revealed" (https://web.archive.
org/web/20090206022646/http://fwinc.boxerblog.com/production_diary/2008/10/ova20081023-
652.html) (in Japanese). 2008-10-23. Archived from the original (http://fwinc.boxerblog.com/pro
duction_diary/2008/10/ova20081023-652.html) on 2009-02-06. Retrieved 2016-10-18.
98. "Famitsu scores for the PS2 version" (https://web.archive.org/web/20090408041507/http://kotak
u.com/gaming/kotaku-magu/kotaku-magu-this-weeks-famitsu-scores-237248.php). Kotaku.
2007-02-16. Archived from the original (https://kotaku.com/gaming/kotaku-magu/kotaku-magu-t
his-weeks-famitsu-scores-237248.php) on 2009-04-08. Retrieved 2009-04-08.
99. "Higurashi Onikakushi Review" (http://apgnation.com/articles/2015/05/29/17237/higurashi-onik
akushi-review). APGNation. May 29, 2015. Retrieved October 22, 2015.
00. "Review: Higurashi When They Cry Hou – Ch.1 Onikakushi" (http://www.hardcoregamer.com/2
015/05/22/review-higurashi-when-they-cry-hou-ch-1-onikakushi/149971/). Hardcore Gamer.
May 22, 2015. Retrieved October 22, 2015.
01. "Review: Higurashi When They Cry Hou – Ch. 2 Watanagashi" (http://www.hardcoregamer.co
m/2015/11/18/review-higurashi-when-they-cry-hou-ch-2-watanagashi/177932/). Hardcore
Gamer. November 18, 2015. Retrieved December 25, 2015.
02. "Article about Higurashi no Naku Koro ni from eg" (https://web.archive.org/web/200709262334
47/http://eg.nttpub.co.jp/news/20061130_07.html) (in Japanese). Archived from the original (htt
p://eg.nttpub.co.jp/news/20061130_07.html) on 2007-09-26. Retrieved 2016-10-18.
ひぐらしのなく頃に祭
03. " " (https://web.archive.org/web/20071011034626/http://www.alchemist-n
et.co.jp/products/higurashi_matsuri/index_main.html). Alchemist. Archived from the original (htt
p://www.alchemist-net.co.jp/products/higurashi_matsuri/index_main.html) on October 11, 2007.
Retrieved October 11, 2007.
04. "Game Search" (https://sites.google.com/site/gamedatalibrary/game-search). Game Data
Library. Famitsu. Retrieved February 27, 2019.
読者が選ぶ
05. " MY BEST ギャルゲーランキング " (https://web.archive.org/web/20071011213916/
http://gs.dengekinet.com/ranking/index.html) [Readers Choose My Best Galge Rankings].
Dengeki G's Magazine (in Japanese). ASCII Media Works. Archived from the original (http://gs.
dengekinet.com/ranking/index.html) on October 11, 2007. Retrieved February 15, 2013.
06. "Weekly Bestsellers (Comprehensive List) 2008-01-16 Investigation" (https://web.archive.org/w
eb/20130513234936/http://www.tohan.jp/cat2/detail/_2008_116/) (in Japanese). Tohan.
Archived from the original (http://www.tohan.jp/cat2/detail/_2008_116/) on 2013-05-13.
Retrieved 2016-10-18.
07. "Weekly Bestsellers (Comprehensive List) 2008-06-10 Investigation" (https://web.archive.org/w
eb/20130515154127/http://www.tohan.jp/cat2/detail/_2008_610/) (in Japanese). Tohan.
Archived from the original (http://www.tohan.jp/cat2/detail/_2008_610/) on 2013-05-15.
Retrieved 2016-10-18.
08. "Weekly Bestsellers (Comprehensive List) 2009-01-14 Investigation" (https://web.archive.org/w
eb/20120224022644/http://www.tohan.jp/cat2/detail/_2009114/) (in Japanese). Tohan.
Archived from the original (http://www.tohan.jp/cat2/detail/_2009114/) on 2012-02-24. Retrieved
2016-10-18.
09. "Top 300 Graphic Novels Actual--November 2008" (http://www.icv2.com/articles/news/13916.ht
ml). ICv2. 2008-12-20. Retrieved 2009-06-29.
10. " 'ICv2 Insider's Guide' #65: Top 25 Manga Properties Q1 2009" (http://www.icv2.com/articles/n
ews/15120.html). ICv2. 2009-06-10. Retrieved 2009-06-29.
年 ⽉号
11. "2009 12 年 ⽉
". Monthly ASCII (2009 12 ): 47. December 2009.
12. Aoki, Debi. "Review Higurashi: When They Cry Volume 1" (http://manga.about.com/od/yenpres
s/gr/Higurashi1.htm). About.com. Retrieved 2009-06-29.
13. Colussy-Estes, Justin. "Review - Higurashi When They Cry: Abducted by Demons Arc Volume
1 (Ryukishi07 and Karen Suzuragi)" (https://web.archive.org/web/20100920024902/http://comic
svillage.com/review.aspx?reviewID=614). Comics Village. Archived from the original (http://ww
w.comicsvillage.com/review.aspx?reviewID=614) on 2010-09-20. Retrieved 2016-10-18.
14. Brienza, Casey (2009-01-04). "Review Higurashi: When They Cry GN 1" (http://www.animene
wsnetwork.com/review/higurashi/when-they-cry/gn-1). Anime News Network. Retrieved
2009-06-29.
15. Guie, Phil (2009-04-27). "Review Higurashi When They Cry: Abducted by Demons Arc, Vol. 2"
(https://web.archive.org/web/20120308062400/http://www.popcultureshock.com/manga/index.p
hp/reviews/manga-reviews/manga-minis-42709/). Popcultureshock. Archived from the original
(http://www.popcultureshock.com/manga/index.php/reviews/manga-reviews/manga-minis-4270
9/) on 2012-03-08. Retrieved 2016-10-18.
16. Brienza, Casey (2009-02-19). "Review Higurashi: When They Cry GN 2" (http://www.animene
wsnetwork.com/review/higurashi/when-they-cry/gn-2). Anime News Network. Retrieved
2009-06-29.
17. Henley, James (September 8, 2009). "Anime Review: Higurashi: When They Cry" (http://www.e
scapistmagazine.com/articles/view/editorials/reviews/anime/6503-Anime-Review-Higurashi-W
hen-They-Cry). The Escapist. Retrieved February 5, 2011.
18. "Anime Review: Higurashi – When They Cry" (http://animealmanac.com/2009/09/02/anime-revi
ew-higurashi-when-they-cry/). The Anime Almanac. September 2, 2009. Retrieved February 5,
2011.
19. "When They Cry - Higurashi" (http://www.themanime.org/viewreview.php?id=1001). THEM
Anime Reviews. Retrieved February 5, 2011.

External links
Official website (https://07th-expansion.net/hig_gensaku) (in Japanese)
Higurashi no Naku Koro ni (https://www.mangagamer.com/product_list.php?page=1&goods_ty
pe=1&company=07th+Expansion) at MangaGamer
Manga official website (http://blog.jp.square-enix.com/magazine/nakukoroni/) (in Japanese)
Anime official website (http://www.oyashirosama.com/web/) (in Japanese)
Novel official website (https://sai-zen-sen.jp/sa/higurashi/) (in Japanese)
Novel official website (Futabasha) (https://www.futabasha.co.jp/introduction/jr_higurashi/index.
html) (in Japanese)
Higurashi When They Cry - Gou official website (https://higurashianime.com/) (in Japanese)
Higurashi no Naku Koro ni Mei official website (https://www.higurashi-mei.com/) (in Japanese)
Higurashi no Naku Koro ni Matsuri official website (https://web.archive.org/web/200608310116
52/http://www.alchemist-net.co.jp/products/higurashi_matsuri/) (in Japanese)
Higurashi no Naku Koro ni Sui official website (https://web.archive.org/web/20150906194549/h
ttp://www.kaga-create.co.jp/higurashisui/) (in Japanese)
Higurashi no Naku Koro ni Hō official website (Entergram) (http://www.entergram.co.jp/higuras
hihou/) (in Japanese)
Higurashi When They Cry (https://vndb.org/v67) at The Visual Novel Database
Higurashi When They Cry Kai (https://vndb.org/v68) at The Visual Novel Database
 Higurashi When They Cry (https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/anime.php?id=6
134) (anime) at Anime News Network's encyclopedia

Retrieved from "https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Higurashi_When_They_Cry&oldid=1033748672"

This page was last edited on 15 July 2021, at 16:04 (UTC).

Text is available under the Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike License; additional terms may apply. By using this
site, you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Wikipedia® is a registered trademark of the Wikimedia
Foundation, Inc., a non-profit organization.