Game Information

Developer: SZ Games

Rating:

4.2/5

Released: April 2024

Last Updated: June 2025

Technology: HTML5 (Unity WebGL)

Platform: Browser

Size: ~15 MB

Plays: 32,689

Mobile Support: Yes

About shutdown.

Step into the hauntingly beautiful world of "shutdown.", a deeply atmospheric indie adventure you can play free online. Created by visionary indie developer kalechips and enhanced by the evocative soundscapes of atapi, "shutdown." is a surreal tale of urgency and discovery—where you embody a lifeless Doll on the brink of a mysterious disassembly.

You awaken, metal joints aching, as faint light flickers overhead and cold steel presses against your back. With mere minutes ticking away before your inevitable shutdown, an unknown figure works silently at your rivets, each movement thrumming with suspense and hope. Will you trust this stranger? What choices can you make before time runs out?

"shutdown." packs rich narrative depth into a distilled package: with just a single sprite, one haunting background, and a minimalistic yet powerful soundtrack, every game element is meticulously crafted for maximum emotional impact. Each playthrough is shaped by your decisions—navigate tense dialogue, manage your dwindling time, and interact with the environment as you race against the clock.

Four unique endings offer replay value, inviting you to explore hidden paths and secret dialogue. The game's responsive HTML5 design ensures smooth, immersive play on both desktop and mobile browsers. Whether you're a veteran adventurer craving mind-bending choices or a casual gamer seeking a quick, atmospheric story, "shutdown." delivers a gripping, memorable experience you won't soon forget.

Don’t just play—immerse yourself in the fate of the Doll, decipher cryptic clues, and see how your choices echo in the quiet, mechanical darkness. Every action matters in this acclaimed indie gem—will you escape the operating table, or succumb to the inevitable shutdown?

How to Play

Begin your journey in "shutdown." as you awaken on a cold operating table. The interface is deliberately minimal: use your mouse or touch to click through dialogue and interact with objects on screen. Pay close attention to the limited environment—the game’s single sprite and haunting background mean every detail and option counts. Choices are presented in concise menus, and each selection influences your path toward one of four endings.

Time is your enemy. You have only a few minutes to act before the shutdown is complete. Progress by conversing with the mysterious figure beside you—what you say and how you respond can open or close paths to different outcomes. When prompted, examine key parts of your surroundings by clicking or tapping. Some objects and clues are easy to miss, so scan carefully! Listen for audio cues: subtle sound effects and mood music hint when you’re on the right track or running out of time.

For best results, play in a quiet environment and consider replaying to see all possible endings. Beginners should focus on exploring every dialogue option and object—there are no wrong answers, but each route reveals more about the story’s secrets.

Controls

mouse

keyboard

Tips & Tricks

Examine every clickable element—even minor details can change the ending.
Listen closely to audio cues; sudden changes in music often signal an important event or choice.
Don’t rush; reading dialogue carefully opens new story branches and solutions.
Replay the game to discover all four unique endings and hidden story nuances.
Try responding differently to the mysterious figure—trust and suspicion both unlock unique paths.
Stay aware of your remaining time; some endings require acting quickly, while others reward patient exploration.

Game Features

Atmospheric, minimalist art creates a unique sense of urgency and isolation.
Four distinct endings for high replayability and narrative depth.
Evocative original soundtrack and sound design by atapi enhances immersion.
Seamless play across desktop and mobile browsers with fast load times.
Deep, branching storylines shaped entirely by your choices.
Single sprite and background design focuses attention on narrative and emotion.
Completely free-to-play indie experience on itch.io—no downloads needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is shutdown. really free to play?

Yes! shutdown. is completely free to play online via itch.io. No registration or download is required—just launch in your browser and start your adventure instantly.

Can I play shutdown. on my smartphone or tablet?

Absolutely. shutdown. is fully mobile compatible. The game’s HTML5 design and touch-friendly interface mean you can enjoy the full experience on smartphones and tablets.

How do I get different endings in shutdown.?

Each ending is determined by your choices during dialogue, object interactions, and how you manage your time. Experiment with different responses and exploration paths to unlock every ending!

Do I need any special software or plugins to play?

Not at all. shutdown. runs in your web browser—just make sure you have a modern browser like Chrome, Firefox, or Safari for the best experience.

Is there a way to save my progress?

shutdown. is designed for quick, complete playthroughs in a single sitting—there’s no traditional save feature, but multiple playthroughs reveal new secrets and storylines.