"Higurashi When They Cry: Curse Killing Arc" is a manga adaptation of the visual novel series "Higurashi no Naku Koro ni," focusing on the events of the "Tatarigoroshi-hen" arc. The story is set in the rural village of Hinamizawa in 1983, where a series of mysterious deaths and disappearances occur, tied to the local deity Oyashiro-sama. The narrative centers on Keiichi Maebara, a newcomer to the village, and his interactions with his friends Rena Ryugu, Mion Sonozaki, Satoko Hojo, and Rika Furude.

Keiichi becomes increasingly suspicious of the village's dark secrets after learning about the annual Watanagashi Festival, during which a series of gruesome events have historically taken place. The arc delves into the psychological strain on Keiichi as he begins to suspect that his friend Satoko's abusive uncle, Teppei Hojo, may be involved in the village's curse. Determined to protect Satoko, Keiichi contemplates drastic measures, including murder, to eliminate Teppei.

As the story progresses, Keiichi's mental state deteriorates, and he becomes entangled in a web of paranoia, hallucinations, and fragmented memories. The narrative explores themes of trust, loyalty, and the consequences of isolation, as Keiichi struggles to discern reality from delusion. The arc culminates in a tragic and ambiguous conclusion, leaving the true nature of the curse and the events in Hinamizawa open to interpretation.

The characters are central to the story's tension, with Keiichi's descent into madness serving as the focal point. Rena's obsession with "taking things home," Mion's dual role as a friend and heir to the Sonozaki family, Satoko's resilience in the face of abuse, and Rika's cryptic knowledge of the village's history all contribute to the arc's unsettling atmosphere. The interplay between the characters and the village's ominous traditions creates a sense of dread that permeates the narrative.

"Higurashi When They Cry: Curse Killing Arc" is a psychological thriller that combines elements of mystery, horror, and drama, offering a compelling exploration of human fragility and the impact of fear on rational thought. The arc is a key part of the larger "Higurashi" series, contributing to its overarching themes of cyclical tragedy and the search for truth.