This series feels like a good remake that does fall short of being in the same league as the source material.
There are a few things that were really good, for example the short introduction pieces that told more of a background story of how the cordyceps began to spread or how certain characters are the way they are. These are really well made and add to the story of the game.
Whenever the series stays faithful to the game, it is the closest to reaching the same heights. One example is the first episode, which is just as emotional as its corresponding part of the game.
Unfortunately, some other episodes or events deviate from the game in a way that makes scenes less impactful. Often these are small changes but they add up. Big events in the game are made less significant by almost glossing over them, changing the general mood of the scenes or by changing the scenery that was such an important part in the game.
Overall, this series is good. I suspect people who havent played the game might find it a little better (but they are missing the bonus of fan service). As someone who has played the game however, I can only say: This is an off-tune version of the game and therefore if you gave me the choice between the two, I would always pick the game. It is more impactful and rounded off.
Still, I enjoyed it, mainly for the backstory it provides and the times it does follow the game more closely. And it gave me a reason to play the game again.
