The Shape On The Ground (Steam Edition)
This software is not a game. A cross between a walking sim and a tarot card reading, TSOTG asks you to find 12 evocative dioramas and answer a single question : What do you see? Answer instinctively and receive one of five different endings and a final reading meant to stimulate self-reflection.
Developer
Publisher
Release
June 15, 2021
5 years and 49 days ago
Steam Reviews
Mostly Positive28 reviews75.0%
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Game contextLatest: IGF Team
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|---|---|---|
Updated: Jul 14, 2026Developer scaleThe operating scale of the game's developer. | ||
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Updated: Jul 14, 2026Creative controlWho appears to retain creative control of the game. | ||
Updated: Jul 14, 2026Release statusWhether and how the game has been released. |
Media
10 itemsAbout the Game
WARNING : This software contains imagery that could evoke sensitive subject matter in some users. Such subject matter include Grief, Death, Self-Harm and Suicide Ideation.
Consider it as a tarot reading : both a divination and self-reflection tool. A moment in time for yourself, a magick circle, to freely explore your inner world. Walk around a desolate town in search of the 12 dioramas where you will be asked a question.
Answer truthfully, with the answer that best corresponds with how you are feeling. There is no right or wrong answer. Then you will be shown an ending and given a personalized reading based on your answers.
The game
The Shape On The Ground is not a game, in the conventional sense. It is a short horror-themed first-person walking simulator experience which can be completed in 20 minutes.Consider it as a tarot reading : both a divination and self-reflection tool. A moment in time for yourself, a magick circle, to freely explore your inner world. Walk around a desolate town in search of the 12 dioramas where you will be asked a question.
Answer truthfully, with the answer that best corresponds with how you are feeling. There is no right or wrong answer. Then you will be shown an ending and given a personalized reading based on your answers.
Features
- Five different endings : based on the answers the player has provided
- Horror-Themed atmosphere : explore a miniature cardboard town inspired by the works of the Brothers Quay
- Low risk gameplay : no enemies putting the player in danger, just a tense and heavy atmosphere
- A personal space of introspection : This software is meant to be revisited from time to time, to help identify the changes within the player
What's new in the Steam Edition
Similar to a director's cut, this version of The Shape On The Ground contains new material never seen in earlier versions.- Two entirely new dioramas, adding more symbolism and mystery to the environment
- Two new small areas to explore, where the new dioramas are located : the park and the sewer system
- Quality Of Life improvements such as clearer tutorials and removal of some confusing meta-narrative elements
