Melbourne-based studio Plot Twist have announced that their murder graphic novel Ashes is launching on Steam Early Access in April.
Ashes is a visual novel set in Victoria, Australia, that follows Azar Warren, a 16-year-old skater hiding out at her estranged grandfather’s rural compound after witnessing a gruesome murder.
Blending graphic novel panels with interactive puzzles, Ashes sees Azar fight not only to keep herself safe but also to reveal dark truths about people she thought she could trust.
“During Melbourne’s pandemic lockdowns, when most film and TV production was shut down, I started experimenting with interactive storytelling, a new obsession.” Shared Plot Twist founder Cléa Frost. “Gathering a small team of talented, passionate collaborators, we tested mechanics and techniques before I landed on the concept and format of Ashes.”
“Interactive fiction holds such opportunity to expand what we consider to be a game, as well as to explore stories, characters and worlds that we don’t usually get to see. Nothing I’ve done creatively has brought me more joy than Ashes, and I can’t wait for people to play it.”
Ashes is launching on Steam Early Access in April.
About Ashes
Ashes is a visual novel set in Victoria, Australia, that follows Azar Warren, a 16-year-old skater hiding out at her estranged grandfather’s rural compound after witnessing a gruesome murder.
Blending graphic novel panels with interactive puzzles, Ashes sees Azar fight not only to keep herself safe but also to reveal dark truths about people she thought she could trust.
A Story of Murder and Suspense
While hiding from those determined to silence her, Azar takes refuge at her estranged grandfather’s property. However, his strange behaviour soon leads her to suspect Stan is harbouring terrible secrets of his own.
Puzzle Solving
Ashes blends visual novel elements with mini-game puzzles that engage with the world.
From piecing together torn-up photos to cracking the code for a mysterious lockbox to firing a rifle at a homemade shooting range, Azar will need her wits about her as threats lurk in the shadows.
An Interactive Graphic Novel
With a dynamic graphic novel visual style, the hand-crafted artwork captures the magnitude of Azar’s story with a gritty depiction of Victoria, Australia.
