Info about Have a Nice Dream: Official game description: creative background: \[/\] "One day, when I woke up from my dream, I started planning to make a game." "This is the story I want to tell you." "So the story of me and you began." ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- about games: \[/\] ”"Have a good dream" is an independent self-made short pixel game. You need to control a quiet girl to explore in the room, in which a series of strange things happen. When you wake up from a pink room, there is a strange man in front of you. He wants you to stay at home, because he is going to go out and buy some things, including your favorite bear biscuit. But is it really so successful? Why do you like bear biscuits? Why do you wake up here? The whole house is so strange to you that you don't even understand why you are here, so you need to solve these mysteries. Game play is very simple, control the role in the map to explore, trigger the plot or solve the puzzle. There will be options in the game, you can choose according to your own preferences, although there will be different endings, but most of the choices will not affect the outcome. There is no Horror Picture in the game, but it involves blood, guns and other pictures. There will be part of the game chase, maze content. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- operation mode: \[/\] Key control action, Z key interaction, ESC menu ----------------------------------------------------------------------- game features: \[/\] \*Unique picture style \*Simple and popular plot \*Archive with a cat \*Rich original music ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Release date: May 24, 2021 Categories: Psychological Horror, Puzzle Solving, Multiple Endings, Pixel Art Style, Story-driven Gameplay, Fourth-Wall Breaking, Exploration - Hardware Profile: No data Feature extractions: - Community Price: No data - Playtime Metrics: - Game completion: 60.0h - Story completion: 60.0h - Session length: 60.0h - Endgame: N/A - Reasoning: Multiple reviews report completion times ranging from 40 minutes to 1.5 hours, with the most common estimate around 1 hour. The game is story-driven, so completing the game also means completing the story, supporting a storyCompletion of 60 minutes. Most players finish in a single sitting, indicating a session length of about 1 hour. No evidence of post-game content exists, so endgame is null. - Time-to-fun: No data - Player Archetypes: - Emotional Resonator (buy) - Motivation: Emotional catharsis and connection with the story's themes of love and loss. - Playstyle: Immersive reading, following the narrative closely, and allowing themselves to be emotionally affected. - Experience: mixed - Purchase stance: buy - Labels: sentimental woman - Reference games: N/A - Meta Critic (no buy) - Motivation: Seeking narrative integrity and logical consistency in storytelling. - Playstyle: Analytical and critical, focusing on plot holes and the effectiveness of meta devices. - Experience: veteran - Purchase stance: no buy - Labels: N/A - Reference games: Undertale - Casual Free-to-Play Player (buy) - Motivation: Enjoying a short, free, and low-commitment gaming experience. - Playstyle: Casual, quick playthrough, focusing on music and story without deep engagement. - Experience: familiar - Purchase stance: buy - Labels: N/A - Reference games: N/A - Design Comparator (sale) - Motivation: Analyzing game design, seeking inspiration sources, and evaluating originality. - Playstyle: Comparative analysis, paying attention to mechanics, art, and narrative influences. - Experience: veteran - Purchase stance: sale - Labels: N/A - Reference games: Yume Nikki; The Witch's House; Undertale Below are summaries of things people say about the game per category. Each point is assigned a weight that represents how often it is mentioned across all reviews. What players like: - Emotional and touching ending (weight 0.75): Players consistently praised the ending as emotionally moving, beautiful, and tear-jerking. The final reveal and choice were highlighted as particularly meaningful and heartfelt. - Excellent music and atmosphere (weight 0.44): The soundtrack and atmospheric sound design were widely praised for being well-chosen, fitting the scenes, and enhancing the overall mood. The music was described as excellent, beautiful, and a key strength of the game. - Well-written and engaging story (weight 0.33): The narrative was consistently described as well-written, well-told, and well-crafted, with excellent pacing. The story was also noted for being simple yet sincere and touching. - Unique and immersive experience (weight 0.31): The game's unique visual style and strong atmosphere were noted as creating a highly immersive experience. Players appreciated the distinctive mood and engaging gameplay. - Enjoyable and well-made game (weight 0.23): Reviewers found the game fun, cute, and refreshing, with a solid vibe. It was considered well-made and enjoyable despite its simplicity. - Lightweight and easy to play (weight 0.22): The game was described as lightweight, stress-free, and easy to play, making it accessible and relaxing. Its short length and low difficulty were seen as positive attributes. - Touching love story (weight 0.16): Players were moved by the game's portrayal of love, sacrifice, and mutual salvation between two lovers. The beautiful love story was a significant emotional highlight. - Emotionally impactful narrative (weight 0.13): The story was found to be emotionally engaging, tight, and thought-provoking. It was considered impactful and well-crafted, resonating deeply with players. - Great free game experience (weight 0.13): Reviewers noted that the game offers good immersion and is worth playing, especially considering it is free. It was considered a great value for a free title. - Touching for sensitive players (weight 0.09): The game was noted to be particularly touching for sensitive people, with a hint of sadness that can be emotionally affecting. - Breaks the fourth wall (weight 0.09): Players noted that the game gives a feeling of breaking the fourth wall, blurring the line between the game and reality. This was seen as a unique and interesting feature. - Good visuals and graphics (weight 0.09): The visuals and graphics were praised as good and stunning, with the ending visuals and music being particularly well-received. Common complaints: - Chase sequences are frustrating (weight 0.34): Multiple reviews highlight that the chase sequences are overly difficult, poorly designed, and frustrating. The controls feel awkward and sticky, making these sections torturous and annoying for players. - Story is clichéd and predictable (weight 0.29): The story is frequently criticized for being clichéd, predictable, and ordinary. Players find the plot easy to guess and lacking in originality, with a rushed information dump at the end. - Controls are uncomfortable (weight 0.16): The controls are widely reported as uncomfortable, unresponsive, and laggy. Directional controls feel awkward, and movement has noticeable delay, negatively impacting the overall experience. - Game is too short (weight 0.13): The game is very short, with a playtime of about 45 minutes, and lacks depth in both gameplay and story. Players feel the game wastes their time with a brief, shallow experience. - Technical bugs hinder progress (weight 0.12): The game suffers from technical bugs, including a serious bug that blocks progress and a softlock in the stone-pushing room. These issues can freeze the game and prevent completion. - Gameplay is boring and monotonous (weight 0.1): The gameplay is described as poor, simple, and monotonous, lacking fun and engagement. Players find the mechanics repetitive and uninteresting. - Maze is confusing and frustrating (weight 0.1): The maze section is confusing and frustrating, with a blocking character adding to the annoyance. Players struggle to navigate and find the experience unpleasant. - Dialogue cannot be fast-forwarded (weight 0.1): The dialogue is long and cannot be fast-forwarded, appearing one line at a time with long waits. This makes the story feel tedious and slows down the pacing. - Map design is poorly executed (weight 0.07): The map design is poorly done, with redundant and unnecessary areas that add confusion. Players find the layout unhelpful and detracting from the experience. - Puzzles are few and below average (weight 0.07): There are few puzzles, and those present are below average in quality. Players find them unengaging and lacking challenge. - Visuals are unimpressive (weight 0.07): The graphics are not impressive, with some calling them horrible. The visuals fail to enhance the game and are a point of criticism. - Male protagonist is unlikable (weight 0.06): The male protagonist is described as unreasonable, selfish, and condescending. His behavior alienates players and detracts from the story. Gameplay feedback: - Chase sequences and mazes (weight 0.31): The game includes chase sequences and maze sections that add tension and variety to the gameplay. These are often combined with puzzle elements to create dynamic levels. - Puzzle-solving gameplay is central (weight 0.28): The game is consistently described as a puzzle-solving experience, featuring various puzzle types such as mazes, rock pushing, and room puzzles. These elements are frequently mentioned across reviews. - Final choice between leaving or staying (weight 0.27): The narrative culminates in a binary choice about whether to leave or stay, which determines the ending. This choice is a key narrative moment for players. - Psychological horror atmosphere (weight 0.25): The game features light psychological horror elements, creating a horror-themed atmosphere without relying on graphic imagery. This tone is a defining characteristic of the experience. - Fourth-wall breaking meta narrative (weight 0.15): The game breaks the fourth wall by having NPCs address the player directly, creating a meta narrative that enhances the surreal experience. This is a distinctive feature noted by reviewers. - Surreal indie pixel art game (weight 0.15): The game is a surreal, story-driven indie title with pixel art graphics. Its unique aesthetic and narrative focus are frequently highlighted. - Choices with limited impact (weight 0.13): While the game offers choices and multiple endings, most decisions do not significantly alter the main outcome. The final choice is the primary determinant of the ending. - Text-based narrative with red text (weight 0.12): The game is mostly text-based, with red text guiding player choices and interrupting gameplay. This text-driven approach is central to the storytelling. - Story-driven with visuals and music (weight 0.1): The game is story-driven, with visuals, music, and narrative working together to create an immersive experience. The story is a key focus. - Save point system with cat character (weight 0.09): The game includes a save point system, with a notable save point located at a cat character. This adds a charming and functional element to the gameplay. - Built with RPG Maker (weight 0.09): The game is made using RPG Maker, which contributes to its pixel art style and simple mechanics. This technical detail is mentioned in several reviews. Performance notes: - Performance issues with many enemies (weight 0.16): Players report significant lag and lack of smoothness, especially when facing large groups of enemies. This suggests optimization problems under heavy load. Recommendations: - Game is worth recommending (weight 0.28): Multiple reviewers strongly recommend the game, describing it as worth playing and worth experiencing. This positive sentiment is the most common theme across the feedback. - Good for short sessions (weight 0.2): Reviewers suggest the game is ideal for short play sessions, recommending it for those with limited time or as a way to pass time. The game is described as a good way to spend 30 minutes to an hour. - Recommended as free game (weight 0.13): Several reviewers highlight that the game is worth playing because it is free, making it a low-risk recommendation. This is especially noted for players who are unsure or have nothing else to play. - Not recommended by some (weight 0.12): A few reviewers do not recommend the game, with one specifically noting it is not for fans of 'Jane Eyre'. This indicates mixed reception among certain audiences. - Avoid spoilers for experience (weight 0.04): One reviewer advises not to read spoilers before playing, suggesting that the story's impact depends on going in blind. This implies a narrative-driven experience where surprises are key. - For indie and surreal fans (weight 0.04): The game is recommended for fans of indie games and surreal adventures, indicating its niche appeal. This helps set expectations for the game's style and tone. - Relatable for love experiences (weight 0.04): One reviewer suggests the game makes more sense if you have been in love or are married, implying a deep emotional narrative. This may resonate with players who have similar life experiences. - Play with music on (weight 0.04): A reviewer recommends playing with music on, suggesting that the soundtrack enhances the experience. This highlights the importance of audio in the game's atmosphere. - Recommended for style lovers (weight 0.04): The game is recommended for those who like this style of game, indicating it may not appeal to everyone but will satisfy fans of the genre. This helps potential players decide if it fits their tastes. Other player notes: - Very short playtime (weight 0.34): Multiple reviews note the game can be completed in about 40 minutes to an hour, with some saying it takes only half an hour. This indicates a very short experience. - Lacks English translation (weight 0.14): Several reviews mention the game lacks an English version and does not allow language switching, making it inaccessible to non-native speakers. This is a significant barrier for many players. - Small indie passion project (weight 0.13): The game is described as a small indie project made by a passionate developer, which is often seen as a positive trait. - Comparisons to other games (weight 0.13): The game is compared to Yume Nikki, Omori, Ib, Witch's House, and Mad Father, indicating it shares elements with these titles. - Music by developer (weight 0.13): The music is written by the author, and the game was made for its music, highlighting the importance of the soundtrack. - Bear cookies references (weight 0.12): The story includes lines about buying bear cookies and expressing love, which appear to be recurring motifs in the narrative. - Simple production quality (weight 0.12): The production is described as simple, with a small file size and low system requirements, indicating a modest technical scope. - Multiple endings (weight 0.12): The game has multiple endings, with a choice at the end that affects the outcome. One reviewer suggests saving before choosing. - Free to play (weight 0.11): The game is free, and one reviewer even wants to pay for it, implying it is free. This is a positive aspect for players. - Story about memory and moving on (weight 0.09): The story suggests the male protagonist still remembers the female protagonist despite moving on, and deals with themes of death and saying goodbye. - Themes of death and farewell (weight 0.09): The game deals with themes of death, sudden loss, and saying goodbye, with a funeral scene and a car accident in the story. - Fullscreen toggle via Alt+Enter (weight 0.07): Players can toggle fullscreen using the Alt+Enter shortcut, which is a useful feature for gameplay. - Settings via F1 key (weight 0.04): Pressing F1 opens settings for fullscreen and key rebinding, which is helpful for customization. - Chocolate cake red herring (weight 0.04): A chocolate cake in the fridge appears to be a red herring, possibly a misleading element in the game. - Contains blood and weapons (weight 0.04): The game includes blood and weapons, suggesting some violent or horror elements. - Content appropriate for playtime (weight 0.04): One review states the game has an appropriate amount of content for its playtime, suggesting it is well-paced despite being short. Emotions: - Frustration (weight 0.13): Players frequently cited poorly designed chase sequences, repetitive stone-pushing puzzles, and technical bugs as major sources of frustration. The game's save system often created dead-ends or softlocks, forcing players to replay sections or restart entirely. Unresponsive controls, lag, and a lack of fullscreen support further compounded the negative experience. - Appreciation (weight 0.12): Players expressed strong appreciation for the game's music, atmosphere, and the emotional depth of its pure love story. The effort put into the game, especially considering it was made by one person, was widely praised. The unique narrative and artistic presentation were also highlighted as standout qualities. - Sadness (weight 0.11): The game's story, centered on themes of love, loss, and letting go, evoked profound sadness in players. Many reviewers reported crying at the ending, which involves a painful choice and a poignant farewell. The emotional impact was often tied to specific details, such as the quote about buying bear cookies. - Disappointment (weight 0.06): Players were disappointed by the game's short length, predictable story, and rough controls. Many felt the game did not live up to its high praise, citing shallow gameplay and a lack of depth. The clichéd narrative and poor pacing were also common points of criticism. - Enjoyment (weight 0.05): Players found the game fun and enjoyable, praising its engaging story, good vibes, and immersive atmosphere. The music, particularly in certain scenes, was a highlight for many. The game's short length and easy puzzles made it suitable for casual play. - Moved (weight 0.05): The game's touching story about love, sacrifice, and memory deeply moved players. The emotional ending, often involving a final message or a symbolic act like eating cookies, triggered strong emotional responses. The theme that love is a great magic resonated with many. - Satisfaction (weight 0.03): Players felt satisfied with the game's stress-free and easy gameplay, which was complemented by a good story and music. The game's surprising and well-constructed ending, along with balanced puzzles, contributed to a positive experience. The emotional depth of the story was appreciated despite the simple presentation. - Being moved (weight 0.03): Players were moved by the game's beautiful and touching ending, which often brought them to tears. The story's themes of loyalty, mutual sacrifice, and genuine emotion were particularly impactful. The final ten minutes of the story were singled out as being very touching. - Anger (weight 0.02): Players expressed anger at the game's narrative choices, which withheld information and then dumped unprocessed monologue on them. The difficult chase sequences and a save system that created dead-ends wasted significant time. The story's portrayal of the male character as abusive and manipulative also incited anger. - Annoyance (weight 0.02): Players were annoyed by the game's meta elements, which preached at them without context, and the inability to fast-forward dialogue. The frequent interruptions from dialog boxes and long cut-scenes disrupted gameplay. The male protagonist's condescending tone and the annoying chase sequences were also common complaints. - Fear (weight 0.02): Players felt fear during the game's horror-themed opening, which featured a scary atmosphere and startling moments. The music and sound design contributed significantly to the frightening experience. The first encounter with a black-clothed figure was particularly startling for many. - Surprise (weight 0.02): Players were surprised by the plot twist revealing that the hooded figure was the female protagonist's soul. The game's transition from a horror puzzle game to a warm, well-told love story was unexpected. The beautiful and well-constructed ending also came as a pleasant surprise. - Disgust (weight 0.02): Players felt disgust towards the game's chase sequences, which were described as unpleasant and pointless. The male character's selfish, condescending, and controlling behavior was a major source of disgust. The game's fourth-wall-breaking elements and clichéd story also contributed to this feeling. - Reflection (weight 0.02): The game prompted players to reflect on deep questions about love, letting go, and the difficult choices involved. The story's theme of moving forward while remembering the past resonated strongly. The realization that sometimes ending is the best outcome was a key takeaway for many. - Touched (weight 0.02): Players were touched by the game's love story and its moving ending, particularly the moment where the two characters hug. The character's choice to stay in a dream to be with the other was seen as deeply moving. The story's themes of love, death, and growth evoked a subtle and indescribable feeling. - Admiration (weight 0.02): Players expressed admiration for the author's skills in game development, music, and singing. The game was described as a work of art that is amazing, intriguing, and chilling. The memorable light that shines from the story's struggles and the peak ending were also admired. - Confusion (weight 0.01): Players felt confused by the game's guidance issues, particularly in the maze sections. The disorienting maze design and a perceived red herring, like the chocolate cake in the fridge, added to the confusion. The lack of clear direction left players feeling lost. - Frustrated (weight 0.01): Players were frustrated by the hard chase sequences and control issues with WASD and arrow keys. Getting stuck in chases and experiencing softlocks caused by interactive objects blending with the background were major problems. The red text guidance also led some players to an undesired ending. - Love (weight 0.01): The narrative expresses deep love through the protagonist's choice and the message about buying bear cookies. The character's message conveys love and care, with quotes that express deep affection. This emotional expression of love is a central theme that resonates with players. - Hope (weight 0.01): Players expressed hope for the characters' happiness, wishing them a long and happy life in the next life. The idea that the other person could live well after separation was a source of hope. Wishing for health and happiness for everyone was a common sentiment.}