An Exercise in Mortality - Chapter I

Developer Note

Due to external circumstances, the game is releasing earlier than I would ideally prefer. A significant refinement phase is planned for the next 1–2 months, during which I will continue improving and expanding the game.

These updates focus primarily on visual presentation, animations, gameplay fluidity, and some additional content.

Because first impressions matter greatly in a story-driven mystery game, players who prefer the most polished first playthrough are strongly recommended to wait for these updates, which I will announce here.

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When an engagement is broken off in a tragic manner in a small rural village in the early days of industrialization, a young student finds himself suddenly entangled in mysterious circumstances. A series of unnatural deaths will soon expose the rural idyll as a mere illusion.

• Simulate the course of events To solve the mysteries, place yourself in the shoes of the perpetrator and commit the crimes. You are able to interact with your environment in complex ways, giving you great freedom in how you approach the solution.

• Investigate the crime scene Look for clues and evidence and make a note of anything you think is relevant.
  Talk to the people you meet and ask questions about anything you want, by specifying the person, place, time and object you wish to know about.

• No handholding You are left almost completely to your own devices in solving the cases. It’s up to you to prove your ingenuity and wit. But don’t worry, you’ll have several attempts to come up with the right solution.

• Tightly-woven story Lovers of story-driven games will not be disappointed. Meet a range of interesting and sometimes curious people as you explore the beautiful village and its inhabitants while the story unfolds to its cathartic conclusion.

This game is the first chapter of a story told in three parts.

This game is intended for players who enjoy reading. The pacing is designed around a reading speed of approximately 200–240 words per minute.