LudoNarraCon 2024 is an event on Steam presented by indie publisher Fellow Traveller. From May 9, 2024, through May 13, 2024, players can download and play a few limited-time demos of upcoming narrative-driven indie games. Further, a host of recently released games are on sale during the event.
So here are a few demos available now that you can play, but be sure to check out the event page for exclusive panels with the developers of the various projects.
Baladins | May 15, 2024
Baladins is a playful, choose-your-own-adventure game where players can embody whimsical heroes as they explore the colorful world of Gatherac. This is an RPG where players create their own party, assuming one of five classes. Characters, such as the Cook or Bard, offer unique skills that evolve through player choices. The game can be played solo or with up to four players online or locally. Baladins is definitely game we’re looking forward to.
Minds Beneath Us | TBA
Minds Beneath Us presents an interesting adventure set in a society where AI has automated every aspect of life, leading to human brains being used to operate the internet. Man, that doesn’t seem too far from where everything seems to be going. During gameplay, players follow a protagonist who shares his body with a data ghost, unraveling a deep conspiracy within a world gone mad. Further, player choice during dialogue affects both the storyline and character relationships. Minds Beneath Us features hand-drawn animations and 3D environments that fuel its narrative-driven experience.
Hauntii | May 23, 2024
Hauntii puts players in the shoes of the naive yet courageous ghost named Hauntii on a quest to uncover the truth about the mysterious Eternians—a race of glowing creatures that guide lost souls to an enigmatic tower. During gameplay, players must utilize Hauntii’s ghostly powers to possess both beings and their surroundings in order to solve puzzles and face challenges. Further, the presentation combines line art and a two-tone palette, which obscure the environments and yet encourage exploration. Definitely looking forward to seeing more of Hauntii.
Afterlove EP | Q2 2024
Afterlove EP is a narrative-driven adventure with elements of visual novels, rhythm games, and adventure, set in modern-day Jakarta, Indonesia. During gameplay, players meet Rama, a young musician grappling with the profound loss of his girlfriend, Cinta. Strangely, Rama begins to hear Cinta’s voice in his head, which likely does more to his psychological state than simply making it extremely difficult to move on. Still, the story unfolds over twenty-eight days, with each decision shaping Rama’s path toward healing or further despair. Players will need to make choices that affect their relationships and careers, all while experiencing the rich narrative storytelling of Indonesian developers.
Nirvana Noir | TBA
Nirvana Noir still doesn’t have a release date, but at least it has a demo. This game continues the narrative of Genesis Noir with a complex story where protagonist No Man grapples with the repercussions of his actions that have now split reality into two distinct worlds: Black Rapture and Constant Testament. During gameplay, players will need to navigate these dual realities that each present unique challenges and aesthetics both under the threat of the approaching “Big Bang.” As you navigate through dimensions, the narrative reveals deep conspiracies and attempts to thwart the impending catastrophe. Get into this series if you haven’t, yet.
Great God Grove | 2024
I honestly don’t know how to describe this game, so I’ll just share this from the About section of Steam: Once in a generation, the gods come together to postpone the apocalypse. But this time, it’s HEAVENLY CHAOS!! The once-beloved god of communication started a bunch of godly fights and then went awol. With King missing and the gods in disarray, who’s gonna save the world from A-POCKY-LIPS???
Tom the postgirl | TBA
Tom the Postgirl nails the unique artsy angle, but we can’t help but be drawn in by its grim charm. The story follows Tom, who’s tasked with delivering mail throughout a very strange village filled with secrets. This hand-drawn adventure aims to have players explore environments and give in to Tom’s incurable curiosity that leads her to spy on the eccentric locals. Each delivery deepens the mystery but also tempts players to peek inside the packages. I don’t know if I can help myself.
Nova Hearts | TBA
In Nova Hearts, players assume the role of a superhero navigating the complexities of relationships because superheroes need love, too. Oh, but there’s also turn-based combat. This dating adventure has it all, including romantic pursuits and cosmic battles. During gameplay, players can text, date, and fight against interdimensional foes. There’s a layer of strategy and planning needed to progress, but as you unlock new abilities and deepen bonds you can find the love of your life while saving the world.
The Horror at Highrook | TBA
The Horror at Highrook is set in the eerie ruins of an aristocratic stronghold where the once-reputable Ackeron family has mysteriously disappeared after rumors of sinister rituals. Players have been tasked by the city council to lead a team of occult investigators into this gothic-horror setting inspired by the works of H.P. Lovecraft, Edgar Allan Poe, and Bram Stoker. It’s here that they’ll uncover a lore-heavy narrative that should lead to learning more about the dark secrets of Highrook. The game features a crafting system to create potions and conduct occult rituals to investigate, along with management systems to fully utilize the diverse team of guild specialists, including a Mechanist, Plague Doctor, Scholar, and Thug.
My Lovely Empress | TBA
In My Lovely Empress, players rule as Emperor Hong of the Crimson Empire, faced with the dual burden of governance and personal loss. The game, now with a playable demo, invites you to harness the powers of mythical Yaoguai to tackle imperial challenges while managing delicate alliances with other rulers. As you steer the empire toward prosperity, pivotal decisions await—whether to maintain your reign or sacrifice it all to resurrect your beloved empress. This empire simulation intertwines resource management with East Asian mythology, set against a backdrop of mesmerizing art and an evocative soundtrack.
