The setting often contributes to the suspense as well. A dark, isolated place like an old mansion or a desolate town where the killings take place. It gives a sense of danger and unease. And when the characters start to disappear one by one, it really amps up the suspense. You're constantly on edge, waiting for the next bad thing to happen and hoping to figure out who the serial killer is before it's too late.
The 'death game visual novel' genre creates suspense mainly through high - stakes situations. Since the characters are in a death game, every choice matters and could lead to life or death. This makes the player constantly on edge.
They often keep the identity of the serial killer hidden for a long time. For example, in many novels, the author drops small clues here and there that seem insignificant at first but later turn out to be crucial.
They often use the unknown identity of the killer. The detective is always one step behind at the beginning, and the reader is left guessing who the serial killer is. For example, in 'The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo', the mystery surrounding the killer keeps the reader on edge.
It creates suspense in multiple ways. First, the hidden identities make the reader question the motives of each character. Are they good or bad? Second, as the story progresses, the slow reveals of parts of the identities keep the reader hooked, always wanting to know more.
The genre often withholds information from the reader. We may not know the full rules of the 'death tour' at first, or the true nature of the threat. As the story unfolds and these secrets are gradually revealed, it creates a great deal of suspense. For instance, in some novels, the real reason behind the death tour might be a mystery, and as the characters discover it, the readers are also drawn deeper into the story.
Through its stories. They often involve disturbing themes like mental illness, trauma, or the unknown. For example, in 'Doki Doki Literature Club', the characters' deteriorating mental states create a very uneasy feeling.
First, you need to give them a unique and disturbing backstory. Something that shapes their twisted mindset. Also, think about their motives - what drives them to commit those heinous acts?
A malice novel creates suspense by having characters with hidden motives. For example, if a character in the novel has a malicious plan but it's not clear at first, the reader will be eager to find out what it is. This keeps them reading.
The mystery novel's structure creates suspense by withholding information. We don't know who the culprit is from the start. Clues are given bit by bit, which keeps us guessing.
By making the reader doubt the truth of the confession from the start. If it seems too easy or too out of character for the confessor.