At the heart of the action are a twelve-year-old Kenneth and his younger sister Esme, children of the Murphy family, who hit the trail of a mysterious monster following series of entangled events.
Players praise the game's nonlinear storytelling, which allows them to uncover a variety of secrets surrounding the Murphy family by making choices that lead to eight alternative endings. Each ending features a unique soundtrack, providing a sense of discovery and replayability as players strive to piece together the full scope of the story.
Reviewers highlight the game's strong narrative immersion, thanks to its distinct visual style, hand-drawn artwork, and atmospheric soundtrack. The overall cinematic and moody presentation helps to create a captivating psychological horror experience that draws players into the dark and emotional events unfolding in the Murphy family's life.
Reviewers appreciate the game's narrative pacing, which allows for a relatively short but impactful playtime of 2-3 hours to complete all endings. The ability to skip previously seen text and use a chapter select system makes the experience accessible and encourages players to explore the different narrative branches without feeling overly burdened by repetition.
Players enjoy the game's nuanced approach to storytelling, which leaves room for interpretation and discussion. The ambiguous presentation of the "monsters," whether as supernatural threats or more grounded psychological ones, allows players to draw their own conclusions and find personal meaning in the experience.
Reviewers praise the game's powerful and thought-provoking narrative, which deals with complex themes such as generational trauma, abuse, and the nature of family. Many players found the story to be deeply moving and memorable, even if it left them with a sense of lingering unease or sadness.