CANIDAE

4 / 5

16,778 plays

action Mobile Friendly

Game Information

Developer: SZ Games

Rating:

4/5

Released: April 2024

Last Updated: June 2025

Technology: HTML5 (Unity WebGL)

Platform: Browser

Size: ~15 MB

Plays: 16,778

Mobile Support: Yes

About CANIDAE

Dive into the haunting glow of Halloween night in CANIDAE, a gripping indie action adventure that fuses chilling narrative with pixel-perfect style. As the moonlight exposes the animal spirit inside you, your choices matter more than ever. In this browser-based free HTML5 game, you join a misfit gang of masked teenagers seeking thrill and freedom. Set in a pixel-art world splashed with eerie shadows and vibrant neon, every firework you light draws you deeper into a web of pranks, escalating tension, and psychological horror.

Unlike your generic action title, CANIDAE uses atmospheric storytelling and nuanced character interactions to draw you into its world. Each decision feels razor-edged—will you hang onto your humanity or let your wildness loose? The branching narrative spans roughly 30 minutes, but no two playthroughs are alike. Two dramatically different endings—determined by your courage, caution, or chaos—ensure suspense and replayability.

The controls are intuitive, designed for both desktop and mobile, making it easy to lose yourself in the suspense whether you’re at your desk or on the go. Rich pixel sprites breathe life into masked friends, their shifting demeanors hidden behind animal visages. Sinister synths and environmental sound cues heighten the dread as normal mischief spirals into the uncanny.

CANIDAE won an honorable mention at the Spooktober 2024 Game Jam, and it’s easy to see why. With wickedly sharp writing (over 7.5k words), shocking twists, and immersive worldbuilding, it’s a must-play for anyone seeking a punchy, emotional, and darkly thrilling action experience. Embrace the wild, outwit the darkness, and see if you can discover all the secrets hidden under the moon’s watchful gaze. Play now — your animal instincts are waiting to be unleashed.

How to Play

Start your journey by opening CANIDAE directly in your browser—no downloads, no install needed. Play with either keyboard (WASD or arrow keys for movement, Space or Enter to interact) or seamless touchscreen controls on mobile. As the story unfolds, explore haunting pixel environments, observe your masked friends’ shifting behavior, and interact with anything that catches your eye.

Dialogue choices are at the core: each option impacts the outcome, often subtly—but sometimes drastically—shifting the narrative toward one of two endings. Keep a close eye on conversation prompts; sometimes, honesty or boldness opens opportunities, while other times, caution keeps you safe. Collect environmental clues, watch for changes in the group, and don’t rush—take in atmosphere and context for hidden details. Small objects or offhand remarks can reveal secrets, unlockable scenes, or even new pathways.

New players should pace themselves and pay attention to visual and audio cues. If you get lost, revisit previous locations for additional context or unique interactions. The game autosaves between major scenes, letting you pick up or rewind as needed for exploring both endings. Keep your wits about you; what seems safe may quickly turn dangerous, so approach every encounter with both curiosity and caution.

Controls

mouse

keyboard

Tips & Tricks

Pay close attention to background details—some secrets are hidden in the scenery.
Save major choices for a second playthrough to fully experience both endings.
Watch your friends’ body language and dialogue for clues to upcoming twists.
Engage with every interactive object—even minor items can change your story path.
Use headphones: subtle audio cues signal when danger is approaching.
Don’t be afraid to embrace your animal side; sometimes bold choices are rewarded.
Replay during different times of day or with friends for new perspectives and secrets.

Game Features

Two branching endings for replayability and unique emotional payoffs.
Eerie pixel art visuals paired with sinister synth soundtrack.
Mobile and desktop compatibility—play anywhere, anytime.
7,500+ words of dialogue and story for deep immersion.
Dynamic NPCs whose behavior responds to your choices.
Honorable mention in Spooktober 2024 Game Jam.
Quick (30 min) but impactful play sessions perfect for short breaks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is CANIDAE free to play?

Yes! CANIDAE is completely free to play online via your browser. No account or download required—just launch and enjoy.

Does CANIDAE work on mobile devices?

Absolutely. CANIDAE is fully mobile compatible with intuitive touch controls so you can play seamlessly on smartphones and tablets.

How many endings does CANIDAE have?

There are two distinct narrative endings. Your choices throughout the game determine which path you follow—play again to unlock both!

What makes CANIDAE different from other action games?

CANIDAE blends psychological horror, branching storylines, and evocative pixel art, providing a choice-driven action experience bursting with atmosphere.