Info about and Roger:

Official game description:
Notes before purchase
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This game is a work of fiction. However, it depicts certain uncomfortable aspects of reality.
We suggest that you only play this game when you feel confident that doing so would not overwhelm you.
If you ever feel overwhelmed while playing, please prioritize your well-being and take a break.
About the Game
==============
**_and Roger_** is an interactive novel that lets you see through the protagonist's eyes—whether what she sees makes sense or not. It is comprised of three chapters and can be played in its entirety in about one hour.
**Story**
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It's just another morning for this young girl. She wakes up and starts getting herself ready while shaking off the sleepiness like always. Except something, somehow, feels off.
When she steps into the living room, she expects to find her dad preparing for work. Instead, she finds a stranger sleeping on the couch.
The man wakes up, looks at the girl, and sighs. Ignoring her confusion, he mumbles to himself with a hint of sadness in his voice.
Scared, the girl runs. She must leave the house.
She doesn't know who this man is or where her father has gone.
Walk alongside her on this twisting, twisted path and see where it will lead her.

Release date: Jul 23, 2025

Categories: Interactive Fiction, Narrative Adventure, Choice-based Narrative, Dialogue and Choice-Driven Narrative, Emotional Storytelling, Minimalist Narrative, First-Person Perspective, Psychological Horror


- Hardware Profile: No data
Feature extractions:
- Community Price: No data
- Playtime Metrics: No data
- Time-to-fun: No data
- Player Archetypes: No data


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:
- Masterful storytelling integration (weight 0.99): The game excels in blending storytelling, gameplay, and music into a cohesive experience. Players highlight how mechanics and narrative are tightly interwoven, creating emotional depth and thematic resonance.
- Innovative gameplay mechanics (weight 0.69): Simple yet effective mechanics (e.g., clicking, dragging) are praised for enhancing storytelling and emotional engagement. The design simulates real-life struggles, like cognitive decline, in a meaningful way.
- Profound emotional impact (weight 0.59): The game delivers a deeply moving experience, often evoking strong emotions like empathy and sadness. Players describe it as impactful, memorable, and personally resonant, especially for those connected to its themes.
- Short but impactful runtime (weight 0.58): The game’s 1-hour playtime is frequently cited as a strength, offering a dense, memorable experience without overstaying its welcome. Players feel it’s worth the time and price.
- Beautiful art and soundtrack (weight 0.24): Minimalist visuals and a well-composed soundtrack are highlighted for their warmth, subtlety, and ability to complement the narrative and emotional tone.
- Unique perspective on dementia (weight 0.23): The game’s portrayal of dementia and caregiving is praised for its sensitivity, realism, and ability to foster empathy. It’s seen as a standout example of games tackling serious themes.
- Accessible achievements (weight 0.04): Achievements are straightforward and can be completed within the game’s short runtime, making it friendly for completionists.

Common complaints:
- Lack of player agency (weight 0.24): Players express frustration over the lack of meaningful choices, freedom, or interactivity. The game’s linear structure and forced mechanics (e.g., mini-games) leave little room for player engagement or immersion.
- Short length and value concerns (weight 0.24): The game’s brevity (often under an hour) is a common complaint, with many feeling it is overpriced for the amount of content. This is compounded by repetitive or unengaging gameplay in later chapters.
- Overwhelming emotional weight (weight 0.22): The game’s heavy themes, particularly around dementia and caregiving, are emotionally taxing for many players. Some describe the experience as distressing, uncomfortable, or even damaging, especially for those with personal connections to the subject matter.
- Technical and control issues (weight 0.16): Players report significant technical problems, especially on the Steam Deck, where controls are described as clunky or unplayable. Touchscreen and input mechanics (e.g., name input) are also cited as frustrating or confusing.
- Unsatisfying or polarizing ending (weight 0.14): The game’s conclusion, particularly its religious fourth-wall break, is divisive. Many players find it out of place, unsatisfying, or emotionally jarring, detracting from the overall narrative experience.
- Confusing character interactions (weight 0.03): Some players find the protagonist’s identity shifts and character interactions (e.g., calling a husband 'Dad') confusing or poorly explained, detracting from the narrative’s coherence.

Gameplay feedback:
- Narrative-driven gameplay mechanics (weight 0.52): The game heavily integrates storytelling with gameplay, using mechanics to mirror the protagonist's emotional state and enhance immersion. This alignment between narrative and interaction is a core design choice, making the experience deeply thematic and emotionally resonant.
- Minigames for narrative progression (weight 0.37): Minigames are woven into the story, advancing the plot while reinforcing themes or emotional states. These are often visually distinct and serve as interactive storytelling devices rather than traditional challenges.
- Visual storytelling techniques (weight 0.33): The narrative is conveyed through left-to-right panel progression and image-based cutscenes, blending visual and interactive elements to create a cinematic, immersive experience.
- Simple mouse-based interactions (weight 0.32): Gameplay relies primarily on intuitive mouse clicks, drags, and point-and-click mechanics, making it accessible even for non-gamers. These interactions are often tied to narrative progression or emotional expression.
- Intentional discomfort in gameplay (weight 0.17): Mechanics are deliberately designed to evoke unease, powerlessness, or confusion, serving the story’s themes (e.g., dementia, grief). This includes 'unfun' or obstructive controls that align with the protagonist’s struggles.
- Purposeful difficulty design (weight 0.16): Difficulty is intentionally calibrated to serve the narrative, with mechanics that may frustrate or challenge players to reflect the protagonist’s struggles. This includes trial-and-error puzzles or obstructive controls.
- Chapter-based emotional storytelling (weight 0.14): The game uses a structured, chapter-based narrative to deliver distinct emotional experiences, with each chapter employing unique mechanics or atmospheres to reinforce its themes (e.g., disorientation, calm, or frustration).
- Thematic simulation of dementia (weight 0.09): Gameplay mechanics simulate cognitive impairment, transforming simple tasks into confusing ordeals to immerse players in the protagonist’s experience. This is a central theme, particularly in later chapters.
- Unique first-person immersion (weight 0.07): The game encourages players to adopt a first-person perspective, fostering deep emotional engagement rather than detached observation. This is achieved through exploratory mechanics and a sense of discovery.
- Inspired by narrative games (weight 0.05): The design draws clear inspiration from titles like *Florence* and *Undertale*, sharing similarities in emotional storytelling, simple interactions, and thematic depth.
- Name-input as narrative device (weight 0.03): The game uses a name-input mechanic as a storytelling tool, personalizing the experience and tying player identity to the protagonist’s journey.

Performance notes:
- Steam Deck controls flawed (weight 0.1): Players report poor usability, unresponsive touchscreen inputs, and malfunctioning touchpad-based pseudo-mouse controls on the Steam Deck. Some note the game runs well otherwise, but controls remain a major frustration.
- Steam Deck performance adequate (weight 0.09): While controls are problematic, multiple players confirm the game performs well on Steam Deck with no crashes or FPS issues reported. Some initially confused control issues with performance problems.
- Window mode available (weight 0.02): The game supports windowed mode, though this detail is mentioned infrequently and without additional context on usability or preferences.
- Unity Engine version noted (weight 0.01): The game uses Unity Engine 6000.0.38f1, a technical detail mentioned in passing but without associated feedback on its impact or performance.

Recommendations:
- Play blind for full impact (weight 0.19): Players overwhelmingly recommend experiencing the game without prior knowledge, spoilers, or expectations to maximize its emotional and narrative effect. This approach is emphasized as critical for appreciating its unconventional design.
- Recommended for narrative fans (weight 0.18): The game is strongly recommended for players who enjoy story-driven, atmospheric, or artistic experiences. It is often described as a must-play for fans of emotional or lyrical gaming.
- Not for traditional gameplay (weight 0.18): The game is explicitly not recommended for players seeking clear mechanics, responsive controls, or puzzle-solving depth. Its value lies in its narrative and emotional impact rather than gameplay.
- Optimal play conditions (weight 0.18): Players suggest specific conditions for the best experience, such as playing in one sitting, using headphones, or avoiding touchpads. These recommendations aim to enhance immersion and emotional engagement.
- Emotionally resonant storytelling (weight 0.16): The game is praised for its deep emotional impact, particularly for players who relate to themes of grief, loss, or personal struggles. Its narrative-driven experience is highlighted as a core strength.
- Emotional readiness required (weight 0.07): Players advise emotional preparedness due to the game’s heavy themes and distressing content. It is suggested for those who can handle or seek out such experiences.
- Mixed reactions to ending (weight 0.06): Some players express conflicted feelings about the game’s ending, particularly due to its religious elements. However, many still recommend it for its overall experience.
- Try despite uncertainty (weight 0.04): Even players who were unsure or personally disliked aspects of the game often recommend trying it due to its unique qualities or potential to resonate with others.
- Perspective-changing potential (weight 0.03): The game is noted for its ability to shift players' perspectives, whether on life, art, or personal experiences. This transformative quality is a key reason for its recommendation.

Other player notes:
- Japanese-developed artistic game (weight 0.04): Originally developed in Japan with a different title, the game is praised for its artistic expression, though some players were surprised by the lack of overt cultural elements.
- Spoiler-sensitive marketing (weight 0.04): The developer employed a marketing strategy that concealed key themes to preserve the narrative mystery, which some players appreciated for maintaining the experience.
- Heavy and religious themes (weight 0.03): Players note the inclusion of religious themes and warn others about the game's emotionally heavy content. This may impact accessibility for some audiences.
- Korean language support added (weight 0.03): The game received an update on November 26 to include official Korean language support, expanding its accessibility to a broader audience.
- Technical save data locations (weight 0.03): Players noted specific save data and registry locations, which may be relevant for troubleshooting or modding purposes.
- Comparison to 'Florence' (weight 0.02): The game is frequently compared to 'Florence' in terms of its emotional storytelling and presentation style, suggesting a shared audience appeal.
- Narrative theme mismatch (weight 0.02): Some players felt the beginning of the game did not align well with its overarching themes, potentially affecting immersion or initial engagement.

Emotions:
- Sadness (weight 0.1): The game's exploration of deeply personal and relatable themes, such as Alzheimer's disease, loss, and caregiving, resonated strongly with players' lived experiences. Specific moments, like the husband's fatigue or the mirror scene, evoked raw emotions and reminded players of their own struggles or loved ones.
- Appreciation (weight 0.09): Players praised the game's unique storytelling, emotional depth, and alignment between narrative and gameplay mechanics. The art style, soundtrack, and subtle handling of themes like love, faith, and illness were highlighted as standout features that elevated the experience.
- Admiration (weight 0.08): Reviewers admired the game's innovative use of simple mechanics to convey complex emotions and its masterful storytelling. The cleverly designed scenes, sensory visuals, and psychological portrayal of characters like Roger were frequently cited as examples of exceptional craftsmanship.
- Frustration (weight 0.07): Players experienced frustration due to unclear progression, difficult or cumbersome controls (especially on Steam Deck), and forced mini-games that disrupted immersion. Some also found the gameplay deliberately challenging to serve the story, which conflicted with their expectations for smooth or engaging mechanics.
- Satisfaction (weight 0.05): The game's narrative payoff, emotional resolution, and well-crafted mechanics left players satisfied, particularly when the story and difficulty aligned meaningfully. The minimalist yet effective gameplay, combined with a compelling theme of love, provided a fulfilling and balanced experience.
- Disappointment (weight 0.04): Some players felt the game fell short of expectations due to its lack of depth in writing, cultural authenticity, or traditional gameplay enjoyment. Others were disappointed by the ending's lack of hope, forced religious messaging, or unresolved narrative choices.
- Empathy (weight 0.04): The game's portrayal of dementia, cognitive impairment, and caregiving fostered deep empathy, as players connected the protagonist's struggles to their own experiences with loved ones. The shift in perspective and emotional gameplay mechanics helped players understand the vulnerability and challenges of the characters.
- Gratitude (weight 0.03): Players expressed gratitude for the game's emotional journey, particularly its ability to explore artistic and personally relevant themes in a short playtime. The experience left them reflecting on meaningful topics and appreciating the opportunity to engage with such a resonant story.
- Discomfort (weight 0.03): The game's realistic and unsettling portrayal of powerlessness, dementia, and emotional struggles created discomfort for some players. Specific moments, like the feeding sequence or darker themes, evoked unpleasant feelings, especially when they mirrored real-life experiences.
- Curiosity (weight 0.03): The game's unconventional approach, lack of upfront information, and unpredictable mechanics piqued players' curiosity. The shift in perspective on a second playthrough and the eerie, mysterious vibe of the demo also drove interest in uncovering the story's themes.
- Confusion (weight 0.03): Players initially struggled with the game's narrative direction, unclear mechanics (e.g., the hand-washing scene), and identity shifts in the protagonist. The disconnect between the human love story and the religious conclusion or cultural elements also contributed to confusion.
- Surprise (weight 0.03): The game subverted expectations with its emotional depth, unexpected narrative twists, and unsettling opening. Players were surprised by its quality, the shift from anticipated violence to a love story, and the developer's background not matching cultural assumptions.
- Recommendation (weight 0.02): Players strongly endorsed the game for its unique narrative, emotional impact, and immersive experience. Many recommended playing it blind to fully appreciate its storytelling, visuals, and lyrical qualities.
- Reflection (weight 0.02): The game's themes of dementia, love, and personal struggles prompted players to reflect on their own lives and relationships. The connection between the game's title and real-life concepts, like twilight, left a lasting impression and encouraged deeper thought.
- Awe (weight 0.02): The game's innovative storytelling, emotional depth, and ability to evoke empathy through gameplay left players in awe. Its masterful use of the medium to convey complex themes and immersive experiences was frequently highlighted as groundbreaking.
- Emotional impact (weight 0.02): The game's sad and sweet narrative, combined with intimate and relatable moments, evoked strong emotional reactions, including tears. Players described it as hitting them 'in the feels' and leaving a lasting impression.
- Moved (weight 0.01): Specific scenes, such as the wife's desire to cook despite her condition or the husband's caregiving efforts, deeply moved players. The game's emotional storytelling and immersive presentation created a powerful and resonant experience.
- Nostalgia (weight 0.01): The game's themes of memories and its comparison to *Florence* evoked nostalgia for players, particularly those with decades of gaming experience. Scenes mirroring real-life events also triggered personal reflections and sentimental feelings.
- Distress (weight 0.01): The game's emotionally taxing content, particularly its realistic portrayal of dementia, caused distress for players with personal connections to the subject. The unsettling and disturbing elements of the narrative also contributed to this feeling.
- Anxiety (weight 0.01): The game's themes of cognitive decline and stressful gameplay segments, such as unclear progression or disorienting mechanics, created anxiety for players. The narrative's expression of these struggles also amplified this emotion.}