Dead Names is a narrative-driven visual novel that immerses players in a world marked by the loss of personal identity and the haunting memory of loved ones. Set in a dystopian future, the game delves into issues of transphobia, depression, and the emotional toll of losing those closest to you. The story unfolds in a cold, desolate environment, where the protagonist navigates their feelings of isolation and confusion as they try to make sense of a world that no longer feels like home.
The game is built for the Game Boy, with the simplicity of the platform lending itself to a minimalist yet emotionally powerful experience. Despite its limitations, Dead Names captures the essence of a complex narrative through pixel art and sound design, offering a unique take on sci-fi storytelling.
Start/Interact: Press the J key to begin the game and interact with characters and objects as the story progresses. Your decisions influence how the narrative unfolds, and you'll need to carefully consider each choice as the plot develops.
Exploration: As you move through the world, the game allows you to explore key locations, triggering events that reveal more about the setting and the characters' internal struggles.
Emotional Choices: The game revolves around making decisions that impact the outcome of the story. Your choices will guide the protagonist through a series of emotional and moral dilemmas, ultimately leading to different outcomes.
Dead Names addresses heavy themes and contains content that may be triggering for some players. The game includes depictions of transphobia, depression, and the death of loved ones, which can be emotionally intense. It’s important for players to be aware of these themes before engaging with the story.