Narcissu

Narcissu: Free Visual Novel for Self-Discovery

A free visual novel exploring themes of mortality, identity, and human connection, offering a poignant and introspective gaming experience.

What is Narcissu?

Narcissu is a critically acclaimed freeware visual novel originally developed by Stage-Nana and first released in 2005. It tells the story of Setsumi, a 15-year old terminally ill girl, and her one-week journey with a man named Himeko as they leave the hospital they both reside in.

The linear, kinetic storyline has minimal gameplay and instead focuses on the development of the characters and their philosophical debates around life, death, illness, and what gives meaning to one's existence. Praised for its writing and emotional storytelling, Narcissu explores heavy existentialist themes in a personal manner through the lens of the two protagonists.

With anime-inspired artwork, memorable characters like the kind but cynical Himeko and the introspective Setsumi, and touching dialogue, Narcissu aims to make players reflect on how we choose to live our lives and what truly matters most to us as individuals. Though a short visual novel taking only a few hours to complete, it is seen as being deeply impactful by fans of the genre.

Narcissu Features

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