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Backtrace: Mechanisms for Forgetting

Backtrace is a yuri mystery and puzzle game set inside a retro computer. Log on night after night to uncover a story of internet exploits and unexpected friendships with a crew of 80s hackers. Solve 2D grid-based puzzles to piece together the mystery.

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Updated: Jul 11, 2026Developer scaleThe operating scale of the game's developer.
Updated: Jul 11, 2026Publisher scaleThe operating scale of the game's publisher.
Updated: Jul 11, 2026Publisher statusHow the game's publishing relationship is classified.
Search Google: How is Backtrace: Mechanisms for Forgetting and Petallix Games funded?FundingThe known source of funding behind the game.
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Updated: Jul 11, 2026Release statusWhether and how the game has been released.

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About the Game

Welcome to your first microcomputer!

It’s 1984, at the dawn of the personal computer revolution, and you, Lynn, are one of the lucky few with a personal computer of your own.

Log on night after night to uncover a story of internet exploits, Bulletin Board Systems, unexpected friendships, and a chaotic crew of 80s hackers.

Solve 2D grid-based puzzles to piece together the mystery behind the strange, sentient software you’re reluctantly becoming friends with. Unlock her memories and follow her through a past of love and loss. 

The system is waiting. Are you ready to log in?

Game Features

  • Explore a retro 1980s computer world

  • Follow a josei yuri romance and mystery

  • Solve clever grid-based puzzle challenges

  • Meet a stylish cast of hot evil women in suits

  • Hack into files and uncover hidden memories

  • Create and share your own puzzle levels and solutions

Characters

Simra MukaiNell LaurelAmara Mohanty

  • Simra Mukai (She/Her): Programmer. Cold and exacting ideals. Blacklisted but offered a rare second chance.

  • Nell Laurel (They/Them): Neurobiologist. Sunny optimist. Pursuing a dream while living under the shadow of their parents. 

  • Amara Mohanty (She/Her): Director. Professional and calculating. She has little time for slackers or screw-ups, but her one soft spot is Nell.