Direction was outstanding here. Really adding to the suspense of everything that is happening. Interestingly enough, at the end of the episode, we get Yuki’s goal of winning 99 games.
This game was clearly designed for each girl to die in each of the 3 spots. Even if there was a chance of Aoi & Kokutou surviving in their encounters, it wouldn’t make a difference, as in the end only 3 people were getting out alive. It is frankly quite cruel.
The first episode covered the first chapter of Volume 1, which accounts for 75 pages. The episode cuts many monologues from Yuki’s side, which does add to the suspense. Let the sound direction and visual direction play a big part. With that being said, there is a fear of Yuki’s personality getting reduced. Anime does offer a different experience, as in the novel you are reading from the point of view of Yuki, while the anime makes you feel more like a spectator.