What to do when your days are not going well? What to do when you need to wake up and manage a troubled life, in which you need to work, eat well and still have time for yourself? Isolated Room is about that, and maybe a little more.
The game invites players to navigate through the protagonist's daily life, engaging in a series of ordinary activities such as working on art commissions, playing the guitar, watering plants, and interacting with a neighbor's cat. This realistic portrayal of the character's struggles resonates with many players, who find the experience relatable and thought-provoking.
Throughout the day, players face a variety of choices, each with its own distinct consequences. These decisions, ranging from how to spend one's time to how to approach personal and professional obligations, can lead to different endings based on the player's actions. This choice-driven gameplay encourages players to reflect on their own decision-making processes and the impact of their choices on the character's overall well-being.
The game's slow-paced, contemplative nature allows players to immerse themselves in the character's routine and find moments of respite and relaxation, even amidst the challenges faced. Many players have praised this "meditative gameplay" as a refreshing change of pace from more action-oriented games.
While the game primarily focuses on the protagonist's daily routines, players have praised the game's ability to weave a compelling narrative and explore themes of loneliness, depression, and personal growth. The game's subtle storytelling and the player's ability to influence the character's journey through their choices have resonated with many players, who find the game's emotional depth to be a highlight of the experience.
Several players have highlighted the game's charming and endearing moments, such as convincing the neighbor's cat to spend the night on the protagonist's bed or discovering a touching graduation photo. These small, but meaningful, interactions and discoveries contribute to the overall warmth and personality of the experience, further enhancing the player's connection to the character.