Game Information

Developer: SZ Games

Rating:

3.9/5

Released: April 2024

Last Updated: June 2025

Technology: HTML5 (Unity WebGL)

Platform: Browser

Size: ~15 MB

Plays: 44,159

Mobile Support: No

About A Mechanical Raven's Egg

Discover an evocative narrative and sharply challenging experience in "A Mechanical Raven's Egg," a free indie visual novel that seamlessly merges storytelling and interactive gameplay. Crafted with loving detail for both Trans Representation Jam 2023 and Nonbinary Game Jam 2023, this browser-based title invites players into a clandestine world of android survival, identity, and found family.

You play as a rogue android—newly escaped and desperate—seeking sanctuary in the city’s underworld. Injured and on the run, you stumble into an illegal repair shop, operated by another android who’s just as wary—and just as lost. There’s no currency for cosmetic repairs here, but what unfolds is an intimate, care-filled journey: helping hands, slow trust, and the tangled web of survival in a world unsafe for those on the margins.

Every scene brims with striking dialogue, back-alley ambiance, and nuanced choices that flex your empathy and wits alike. The difficulty isn’t just about clicks or choices—"A Mechanical Raven's Egg" offers layers of perspective-shifting challenges as you attempt to steer conversations, read subtle cues, and make split-second decisions that influence both narrative arcs and character bonding.

Visually, the game leans into elegantly minimalistic HTML5 art, delivering atmosphere with stark lines, neon glows, and expressive android designs. Every sound effect and snippet of ambient noise pulls you deeper into the world’s tense, hopeful hush, emphasizing isolation as much as connection. No mobile support means this experience is best on desktop, fully immersing you in a high-contrast world that begs for focus and reflection.

Perfect for fans of story-driven indies, LGBTQ+ representation, and games that expertly balance challenge with an emotional core, "A Mechanical Raven's Egg" stands out in the sea of visual novels with its raw heart and sharp edges. Take the plunge—one playthrough just might change your outlook on both gaming and storytelling, and you’ll want to savor every moment of discovery and kinship.

How to Play

Start by launching "A Mechanical Raven's Egg" in your browser on itch.io, ensuring you're on desktop for the best experience. Once loaded, you'll be greeted by a minimalist visual interface—text, expressive character art, and subtle background effects set the scene. Advance the story by clicking or pressing the spacebar to reveal dialogue. At key story moments, you'll be prompted to make choices using your mouse. Select the response or action you feel best fits your android’s motivations; your decisions will directly shape both interpersonal dynamics and the unfolding narrative.

The visual novel expects you to read between the lines—dialogue choices often hide deeper meanings, and a seemingly minor decision can have notable consequences. There are no traditional puzzles or combat, but the challenge comes from emotional intelligence and deeply engaging with each character’s nuance. Track your character’s mental state by watching for context clues in the writing and visuals—brittle icons, small shifts in tone, and subtle color changes all hint at the story’s direction.

For first-timers, explore each conversation deeply and don’t rush key decisions. Replay to uncover hidden dialogue, alternate endings, and richer emotional journeys. Familiarity with text-based mechanics helps, but patience and empathy are your greatest tools. Let curiosity, not haste, guide you—and enjoy the journey through a world of mechanical hearts.

Controls

mouse

keyboard

Tips & Tricks

Read every line carefully—subtle clues about character emotions can affect outcomes.
Replay the game to explore different narrative paths and unlock hidden scenes.
Pay attention to visual cues—color shifts and icon changes often signal consequences.
Choose dialogue that feels authentic to your version of the protagonist for best immersion.
Stay alert for ambiguous moments—sometimes the safest choice isn’t the most obvious.
Interact with side details in the repair shop environment for extra lore.
Take breaks if needed—the game’s emotional weight can be intense, and reflection can deepen your experience.

Game Features

Deep, branching narrative with profound LGBTQ+ representation.
High-stakes choices that influence relationships and story endings.
Unique minimalist pixel art and ambient soundscapes.
Crafted for browser play—no download required.
Emotionally challenging, hard difficulty level for story enthusiasts.
Replay value with multiple layered endings and hidden scenes.
Zero explicit content—suitable for wide audiences seeking thoughtful stories.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there any combat or action gameplay in A Mechanical Raven's Egg?

No, the game focuses entirely on narrative and choice-driven interactions. Depth comes from making tough decisions and navigating complex relationships, not traditional combat or puzzles.

Do my choices really matter, or is the story mostly linear?

Your choices significantly affect relationship dynamics, dialogue, and possible endings. Each playthrough can reveal new facets and outcomes, making replaying highly rewarding.

Is this game suitable for all ages?

Yes, "A Mechanical Raven's Egg" contains no explicit content. While the themes are mature and nuanced, there is nothing graphic or inappropriate for teen audiences and up.

Can I play on mobile devices or tablets?

No, the game is optimized strictly for desktop browsers and may not function properly on mobile. For the best experience, play on a computer.

How long does it take to finish the story?

A single playthrough can take between 30 minutes and an hour, depending on your reading speed and exploration. Multiple playthroughs are encouraged to see all endings.