THE CONFERENCE

4.2 / 5

49,096 plays

indie

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: 49,096

Mobile Support: No

About THE CONFERENCE

Venture into the haunting, surreal heart of THE CONFERENCE – an indie browser game that pushes the boundaries of interactive storytelling. Set within a grand yet unsettling hotel shrouded in moonlight, this HTML5 experience immerses you in a late-night performance where every decision matters. Drawing inspiration from contemporary performance art and enigmatic hotel mysteries, THE CONFERENCE crafts an atmosphere laden with tension, curiosity, and anticipation.

As you wander the dimly lit corridors and echoing halls, you’ll encounter cryptic characters and cryptic puzzles woven seamlessly into the hotel’s unfolding narrative. Each room presents unique challenges that demand both intuition and creative problem-solving skills. With its intentionally hard difficulty, the game rewards patience, observation, and unconventional thinking – perfect for indie fans who crave a real mental workout.

The game’s surreal visuals blend moody lighting, muted color palettes, and subtle animation, allowing the imposing hotel setting to steal the show. Every detail, from the flickering lamps to the eerie silence that occasionally breaks into haunting melodies, heightens the sense of unease and intrigue. The browser-based HTML5 format means you can immerse instantly—no downloads, just pure, uninterrupted gameplay straight from your desktop.

THE CONFERENCE isn’t just about finding clues and solving problems—it’s a living, breathing performance. Unravel the narrative as you interact with unusual hotel staff and shadowy figures attending the mysterious midnight event. Each choice carries weight, shaping your experience and revealing secret layers only the most attentive players will discover. If you’re a lover of hard, mind-bending indie titles with a distinct artistic flair, THE CONFERENCE is the game you’ve been waiting for.

Are you ready to embrace the darkness, struggle through confusion, and uncover the secrets hidden behind every door? Join the players who have already raved about this one-of-a-kind experience on itch.io. Dive in, let the hotel swallow you whole, and see if you can survive THE CONFERENCE—where nothing is quite as it seems.

How to Play

Begin your journey in THE CONFERENCE by stepping into the hotel lobby under the cover of night. As you explore, use your mouse or keyboard (arrow keys/WASD for movement if supported; check in-game prompts) to navigate the hotel’s labyrinthine corridors. Interact with objects, doors, and characters by clicking or pressing ENTER/SPACE, searching every shadow for hidden clues and narrative cues.

Progress hinges on your keen powers of observation. Some doors may require special codes you uncover by piecing together hints from overheard conversations, cryptic notes, or subtle changes in the environment. Dialogue choices are critical—pay close attention, as the responses you select can unlock or block access to certain rooms or secrets.

The hotel’s puzzles are designed to be tough but fair, often requiring out-of-the-box thinking and attention to both visual and audio cues. Use headphones for a richer experience; music and environmental sounds often hint at important shifts or upcoming events. Don’t rush—the story unfolds at its own pace, rewarding players who take their time to savor and investigate each scene.

Beginners should start by meticulously observing the lobby and speaking with every character, even if they seem suspicious. Remember, THE CONFERENCE rewards thoroughness and patience over speed. Your goal is to uncover the mystery of the nighttime performance and escape the hotel’s clutches with the truth. Take notes and compare clues—some solutions require combining information from different encounters.

Controls

mouse

keyboard

Tips & Tricks

Explore every room and interact with all objects; hidden details are everywhere.
Listen closely to background music and sounds—audio cues often signal important changes.
Keep track of dialogue choices; some will significantly impact your path.
Look for visual anomalies like flickering lights or moving shadows—these often indicate secrets.
Don’t be afraid to revisit rooms; new clues can appear after major events.
Write down any mysterious codes or symbols you find—they’re vital for later puzzles.
Slow down and enjoy the experience—speeding through increases your chances of missing critical hints.

Game Features

Intensely atmospheric hotel setting that blends surrealism and suspense
Challenging, brain-teasing puzzles tailored for indie game veterans
Branching narrative with impactful player choices and multiple outcomes
Unique performance-art-inspired events that evolve as you play
Stunning, minimalist visuals and haunting soundscapes
Completely free and browser-based; no downloads or installs
Replay value with hidden secrets and multiple story layers to discover

Frequently Asked Questions

Is THE CONFERENCE really free to play?

Yes, THE CONFERENCE is 100% free and available to play right in your browser, directly from itch.io. No account or download required!

Does THE CONFERENCE save my progress?

The game is designed as a continuous experience. While some sessions may support browser-side saving, it’s best to complete it in one sitting. Take notes on key clues so you can pick up where you left off, just in case.

Are there multiple endings or paths?

Absolutely! THE CONFERENCE features branching storylines based on your choices and discoveries. Exploring different dialogue options and uncovering secrets can lead you to unique endings.

Why can’t I play THE CONFERENCE on mobile or tablet?

THE CONFERENCE is optimized for desktop browsers using HTML5 for maximum atmosphere and control precision. This way, every visual and audio detail comes through as intended for the best experience.

How hard is THE CONFERENCE? Can casual gamers enjoy it?

It’s intentionally challenging, demanding focus and puzzle-solving skills. However, anyone who enjoys atmospheric mysteries and is willing to experiment will find it deeply rewarding—just take your time, explore, and have fun!