The Simulation
A never-before-seen game is the only clue left at a crime scene. Called in as a retired game designer to help with the case, you discover hidden breaches that let you cross into game worlds from within.
Does this feel indie?
Vote based on whether this game feels indie to you. You can change your vote at any time. Results earn an IGF score after 10 accepted votes.| ContextThe evidence factors used to assess whether this game belongs on IndieGame.Fan. | Status | Notes Latest Contributor: IGF TeamEdit notes |
|---|---|---|
Updated: Jul 14, 2026Developer scaleThe operating scale of the game's developer. | ||
Updated: Jul 14, 2026Publisher scaleThe operating scale of the game's publisher. | A separate outside publisher is documented for this title. | |
Updated: Jul 14, 2026Creative controlWho appears to retain creative control of the game. | A material outside publishing relationship creates mixed creative-control evidence. | |
Updated: Jul 14, 2026Release statusWhether and how the game has been released. |
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8 itemsAbout the Game
A never-before-seen game is the only clue left at a crime scene. Called in as a retired game designer to help with the case, you discover hidden breaches that let you cross into game worlds from within.
As more enigmatic games emerge, you begin to work alongside each game’s hero, alter what lies behind its visible rules, and uncover a mystery that reaches far beyond the games themselves.
Features:
A Mind-Bending Thriller
Investigate a strange case that unfolds across reality, playable games, and the hidden worlds behind them, blending psychological horror, mystery, and science fiction.
Original “Single-Player Co-op” Gameplay
Control two presences in the same world: the hero inside the game, bound to its visible rules, and Hugo, the intruder who moves behind them. Progress depends on how both sides affect each other.
Layered Puzzle Design
Solve puzzles across multiple layers of reality, where actions inside the visible game and interventions behind it open new paths, reveal secrets, and deepen the story.
A World Behind the Veil
Enter strange simulated spaces that seem to be trying to look like games. As you push deeper, characters, rules, cameras, and hidden intentions begin to break apart.
Handcrafted Places, No Fillers
Explore detailed, authored environments where objects, characters, sound, and visual design are built with intention. Every level has its own identity in both art and gameplay.
Playmestudio is an independent studio focused on original, carefully crafted games where story, mechanics, art, and atmosphere work together as one.
We’re pretty serious about games; we aim for the heart.
The Simulation is under active development.
