Ciao Nonna

4.3 / 5

43,255 plays

adventure

Game Information

Developer: SZ Games

Rating:

4.3/5

Released: April 2024

Last Updated: June 2025

Technology: HTML5 (Unity WebGL)

Platform: Browser

Size: ~15 MB

Plays: 43,255

Mobile Support: No

About Ciao Nonna

Step into the beautifully crafted world of 'Ciao Nonna,' a free indie adventure brimming with heart, mystery, and nostalgia. Designed with evocative pixel art and lovingly built in GBStudio, this browser-based gem invites you to unravel the touching story of Ofelia, a young woman drawn back to her roots after her grandmother’s passing. From the moment you return to the sleepy coastal town of Tor Marina, you’ll be swept into an emotional narrative that delicately explores family relationships, regret, and rediscovery.

You’ll traverse winding cobblestone alleys, uncover hidden keepsakes, and reconnect with characters who remember Ofelia’s life before she left. Each scene is meticulously designed, filled with charming retro visuals that harken back to classic Game Boy adventures, yet carries a distinctly modern narrative voice. As you progress, the game gracefully reveals secrets—some joyous, others bittersweet—that make every step of Ofelia’s journey compelling and meaningful.

With intuitive web controls (Enter to start, Z for A, X for B), players of all experience levels instantly feel at home. The difficulty is accessible, focusing on exploration and storytelling rather than complex mechanics—perfect for newcomers and old-school fans alike. Ciao Nonna’s heartfelt dialogue and gentle pacing allow you to savor every encounter, while subtle environmental clues and clever interactions keep you engaged and curious.

Awarded "best story/setting" in the 'I Can’t Draw But Want To Make A Game (Again)' Game Jam, Ciao Nonna stands out for its intimate portrayal of grief and growth—elevated by an enchanting soundtrack and thoughtful Spanish/Basque localization. Whether you’re playing for the poignant narrative, the classic game jam spirit, or simply the joy of a well-spun indie title, this adventure is sure to leave a lasting impression. All you need is a keyboard and a little curiosity—Ciao Nonna awaits your return.

How to Play

Getting started in Ciao Nonna is effortless, making it an ideal pick for players eager to sink into a story-driven experience. Begin your journey by pressing Enter to launch the game. The intuitive controls mimic classic handheld consoles: Use the Z key (A button) to interact with people and objects, and the X key (B button) to cancel actions or open important in-game menus. Navigate Ofelia through Tor Marina using your keyboard’s directional arrows—exploring every nook for meaningful mementos, clues, and dialogues that deepen your understanding of her past.

As you explore, pay close attention to conversations; every interaction reveals more about Ofelia’s life, her ties to her estranged family, and the unique atmosphere of her hometown. Sometimes, items found in the environment may be revisited for new context, while classic adventure puzzles encourage creative problem-solving. Take your time—Ciao Nonna’s easy difficulty means there’s no rush, so enjoy the emotional journey at your own pace. Beginners should remember to save progress often if such an option is present, and experiment with every interaction—sometimes the smallest detail leads to the biggest discoveries. Dive in, and savor an adventure where every pixel tells a part of Ofelia’s story.

Controls

mouse

keyboard

Tips & Tricks

Explore every area—invisible triggers can unlock new story moments.
Revisit rooms after key conversations for new dialogue and hidden secrets.
Interact with non-playable characters more than once; they often have multiple lines that add depth.
Pay attention to environmental storytelling—background details often foreshadow later events.
Remember classic adventure game strategies: try combining items or inspecting places twice.
Take your time reading the dialogue for the richest emotional experience.
Use a notepad to jot down character names and hints for puzzle solutions.

Game Features

Award-winning narrative exploring themes of family, loss, and self-discovery
Gorgeous retro pixel art aesthetic inspired by classic Game Boy adventures
Accessible, easy-to-learn controls perfect for all skill levels
Emotionally immersive soundtrack that enhances every moment
Browser-based gameplay—no downloads required, just click and play
Multiple language options, including Spanish and Basque localization
Crafted by passionate indie developers as part of a celebrated game jam

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Ciao Nonna really free to play?

Absolutely! Ciao Nonna is 100% free to play directly in your web browser on itch.io, with no downloads or registration required.

Can I play Ciao Nonna on my mobile device?

Currently, Ciao Nonna is not mobile compatible. For the best experience, play on a desktop or laptop browser.

How long does it take to complete Ciao Nonna?

Most players will complete the game in about 1-2 hours, making it perfect for a cozy evening adventure session.

What if I get stuck or miss an important story clue?

Exploring thoroughly, revisiting prior locations, and speaking to all characters usually reveals the next step. There are no fail states, so take your time!