"Umineko When They Cry" (Japanese: うみねこのなく頃に, Umineko no Naku Koro ni) is a Japanese visual novel series produced by 07th Expansion. It debuted in August 2007. The story revolves around a group of eighteen people trapped on a secluded island over two days, experiencing mysterious murders. Readers are challenged to deduce whether the murders are caused by humans or supernatural forces, alongside figuring out the method and motive of the crimes. The series is part of the "When They Cry" franchise, following Higurashi and preceding Ciconia. It has been adapted into various formats, including manga, anime (aired 2009), novels, and stage plays.
In summary, "Umineko When They Cry" began in August 2007 as a visual novel and has since expanded widely across media forms.
