LISA: The Painful vs LISA: The Joyful – What’s the Difference and Which is Better?

LISA: The Painful and LISA: The Joyful are both nightmarish RPGs developed by Dingaling Productions. Although they share a common name, these games are far from identical; while sharing a common universe and themes, there are distinct differences between the two titles.

These two games may not be duplicates, but that doesn’t mean that they’re completely independent of each other, either. LISA: The Painful and LISA: The Joyful, while separate games, are intimately connected, forming a cohesive and profound narrative experience. In this article, we will delve into the contrasts and highlights of LISA: The Painful and LISA: The Joyful to help you better understand the unique qualities each game brings to the overall story. Read on to find out more about the differences between LISA: The Painful and LISA: The Joyful and which is better!

What’s the Difference Between LISA: The Painful and LISA: The Joyful?

These two games may be separate, but that doesn’t mean they’re completely independent of each other. For those who are unaware, LISA: The Painful is the base game, while LISA: The Joyful serves as its post-game counterpart. You can only play LISA: The Joyful after you’ve already completed LISA: The Painful, or else the story won’t make any sense.

LISA: The Painful establishes the groundwork by introducing players to the harsh post-apocalyptic world of Olathe and the troubled protagonist, Brad. It delves into themes of loss, regret, and the arduous quest for redemption.

On the other hand, LISA: The Joyful expands upon the story, shifting the focus to Brad’s adopted daughter, Buddy; it explores themes of resilience, personal growth, and the intricate nature of human relationships. Through her grizzly character development, the game sheds light on her personal journey, providing closure to the overarching narrative.

These games complement each other, emphasizing the repercussions of choices made in The Painful and unveiling their broader implications in The Joyful. Together, they offer a cohesive and emotionally resonant journey, delving into the depths of human nature and celebrating the enduring power of hope, resilience, and determination in the face of futility.

Related: Review: LISA: The Painful is a Painfully Addictive Nightmare

Which is Better, LISA: The Painful or LISA: The Joyful?

You can’t really have one without the other, but that doesn’t mean that one game isn’t more enjoyable to play through than its counterpart.

Both of these games are emotionally eviscerating to get through, but I think that most gamers would agree that LISA: The Joyful is a much more enjoyable experience than LISA: The Painful. LISA: The Joyful gives players a sense of closure, and a sense of relief knowing that Buddy made it out alive (if not unscathed).

LISA: The Painful is an unforgettable game that has plenty of its own merits, but it’s impossible to argue that it’s simply just doomier and gloomier than its post-game counterpart. As mentioned previously, The Painful provides a gritty exploration of regret and sacrifice, while The Joyful focuses on resilience and personal growth.

Choosing the best option between these two games ultimately depends on personal preferences, however. Whether you prefer the introspective and darker aspects of The Painful or the redemptive journey of The Joyful, you have to agree that both of these games solidify their place as remarkable titles within the LISA universe.

Regardless of which game you favor, LISA: The Painful and LISA: The Joyful are two games that definitely deserve more than one playthrough!

LISA: The Painful and LISA: The Joyful are two interconnected RPGs that take players on a wildly profound and emotionally charged journey; these titles may share a common universe, but they offer vastly different gameplay experiences. If you love playing games similar to LISA that make you cry, then you’d love drying your eyes to Undertale!

Undertale is a classic RPG that’s been making its players bawl their eyes out ever since its release back in 2015. Feel free to check out Gamer Journalist’s Undertale guides for more information on the game!