>>1003I think the problem with it being tied to Higurashi is that it draws comparisons to Higurashi instead of its sequel Umineko. The themes of Higurashi are still prevelant towards the original series, but with Gousotsu it's been more about the disconnect and loss of humanity of the loopers. It peered its head in Tsumihoroboshi with Rika's "I'm done with this world's Rena" scene, and in Gousotsu it's amplified by Satoko using looping as a means to an end without care for who she gets caught up in her antics since those around her are never
really hurt, given that they're reset come the next timeline. To that end I think Sotsu did a good job in showing the gradual decline of Satoko, with the culminating scene of this being her killing off what little consideration towards her actions she had left.