This is the best visual novels I've played in years. The story isn't complete yet, but what's here is excellent, with fun characters, a fascinating world with interesting lore and monsters, and a perfect blend of horror and humor. The game had me hooked from very early on, and when I reached the end of what's out so far I was hungry for more.

The music and artwork are really good and combine to make a gripping atmosphere. Characters are well drawn and expressive, changing their expressions in reaction to things being said and things happening around them. I feel really attached to Stella and Gretchen, her dog. There are five characters you can pursue a romantic relationship with, each with their own likes and dislikes. Which brings us to traits and choice.

At the beginning of the game, you pick two traits, and they change what options you have at your disposal when it comes time to make the many choices you'll be making, which also changes what other characters think about you. All of the different traits are useful at different times. This customization and these choices mean there's a lot of replay value, even when all the chapters aren't out yet. On my first playthrough, I selected to be able to talk to animals, and this led to some funny interactions. Speaking of character customization, among the genders you can choose at the start, the game lets you play as a nonbinary character, being one of very few games I've found with that option. There's also a NB character you can romance, which is also quite rare.

Update: It's been a couple years now and they've released new chapters. It really seems like each new chapter is better than the last. This game has been a gift that keeps giving.

Overall, I highly recommend Scarlet Hollow. You can tell from even just the first few minutes of the game that a lot of time, effort, and love was put into this project. If you're still on the fence, download the first chapter for free and give it a try. You'll almost certainly be hooked.