Another Night at the Archive

3.7 / 5

38,412 plays

adventure

Game Information

Developer: SZ Games

Rating:

3.7/5

Released: April 2024

Last Updated: June 2025

Technology: HTML5 (Unity WebGL)

Platform: Browser

Size: ~15 MB

Plays: 38,412

Mobile Support: No

About Another Night at the Archive

Step into the shadowy corridors of "Another Night at the Archive," a free indie browser adventure that reimagines what it means to uncover secrets after dark. As the newest night shift hire in your city’s ancient archive, you expect a boring rotation. Instead, you’re thrust into a world pulsing with eerie whispers, where cryptic phone calls from eccentric government agents and curious ghost hunters break the silence. Your mission? To dig up lost knowledge, answer their strange inquiries, and untangle the interconnected fates of names, cities, buildings, and unsolved events.

Atmospheric and richly narrative-driven, this itch.io gem channels a blend of classic point-and-click adventure with modern interactive storytelling. The game’s interface invites you to sift through a dusty card catalog—each drawer opens not only new facts but also deeper mysteries. Every document you uncover slowly pieces together haunting tales, often stranger and more chilling than your most feverish late-night imaginations.

"Another Night at the Archive" stands out for its retro visual style, evocative of 90s adventure games, and minimal yet haunting sound design that heightens the tension with every discovery. The intuitive mechanics ensure easy entry for newcomers to browser games, while the layered narrative and obscure clues keep seasoned adventurers captivated. Each weird request forces you to read between the lines, rewarding observant and creative thinkers with narrative twists and hidden lore.

Perfect for those who thrive on storytelling, mystery, and atmospheric immersion, the game doesn’t rush you—every play session is a new opportunity to delve deeper, build theories, and assemble the archive’s true story. Its bite-sized mysteries and surprisingly dark humor make it addictive, turning every night shift into an unforgettable experience. Are you ready to answer the call and uncover secrets the city tried to forget? Step into the archive and play for free—your next obsession awaits.

How to Play

Getting started with Another Night at the Archive is as easy as clocking in for your first graveyard shift. Load the game in your browser—no downloads or installs needed! You’ll find yourself at the desk, surrounded by dusty shelves and the flickering light of a single lamp. Your main tool is the old-fashioned card catalog. When you receive a quirky call, you’ll be given a specific name, city, building, or event to research. Navigate the drawers using simple mouse clicks or basic keyboard commands (arrows/WASD and Enter key).

Browse through sections, reading cryptic notes and cross-referencing information. Drag or click cards to reveal hidden connections; some clues may seem unrelated at first but connect in surprising ways. Pay close attention to details—sometimes a card’s placement or an odd scribble opens a new narrative branch. Log the relevant details and report them back via phone, progressing the storyline with every successful research task.

Beginner tip: explore every drawer, not just the ones you’re asked about—there’s rich lore and hidden side stories scattered throughout. Use your notebook (provided in-game) to jot down recurring names or themes. The game is easy to pick up, with all progress saved automatically. Progress isn’t timed, letting you enjoy the mystery at your own pace. Dive deep into the archives, trust your intuition, and embrace the unknown for a hauntingly rewarding experience.

Controls

mouse

keyboard

Tips & Tricks

Cross-reference every clue—hidden links unlock bonus story paths.
Explore all card drawers, even if not prompted—side stories await the curious.
Keep notes on recurring names and places to solve complex mysteries faster.
Listen closely to callers; subtle hints often reveal where to dig deeper.
Some drawers open only after specific calls—revisit previous areas periodically.
Pay attention to catalog numbers—they sometimes form codes or patterns.
Don’t rush—thorough exploration rewards you with unique lore and narrative twists.

Game Features

Deep, interconnected mysteries with adaptive storylines.
Atmospheric, retro-inspired visuals and immersive soundscapes.
Unique card catalog mechanic—classic research meets modern puzzle design.
Eccentric callers and witty writing that blend dark humor with suspense.
Easy browser access—play instantly, no installation required.
Multiple endings unlockable through your discoveries and choices.
Challenging hidden lore and Easter eggs for dedicated sleuths.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Another Night at the Archive really free to play?

Yes! The game is completely free and playable in your browser via itch.io—no downloads or payments required.

Do I need any special software or plugins?

No extra downloads or plugins are needed. Just launch the game from your browser and start investigating instantly.

Can I save my progress?

Absolutely! Your progress is auto-saved in your browser, so you can return to the archives anytime without losing your discoveries.

How difficult is the game for new players?

The game is designed for easy entry. The mechanics are intuitive and there are plenty of hints, making it perfect for newcomers to adventure games.

Are there multiple endings or secrets to uncover?

Yes—your choices, discoveries, and thoroughness will unlock unique lore, secret endings, and hidden storylines. Explore every drawer for the best experience!