Game Information

Developer: SZ Games

Rating:

3.6/5

Released: April 2024

Last Updated: June 2025

Technology: HTML5 (Unity WebGL)

Platform: Browser

Size: ~15 MB

Plays: 36,927

Mobile Support: Yes

About The End of Decay

Step inside the eerie silence of an ancient library and discover what lies beneath the tattered cover of a forgotten history book in The End of Decay. This free, browser-based horror adventure is a spellbinding collaboration between acclaimed indie creators FREYA CAMPBELL and GRIM BACCARIS, designed exclusively for the Bitsy Cursed Book Jam on itch.io. Two mischievous ghouls in a trench coat guide you through a chilling narrative where reality blurs with the supernatural, unraveling a single, all-consuming tale of magick and decay.

The End of Decay offers a deeply immersive, atmospheric experience packed into a deceptively simple HTML5 package. With hand-crafted pixel illustrations and evocative audio design, every room you explore crackles with hidden stories and spine-tingling secrets. Navigate the spectral corridors using intuitive controls—ARROW KEYS to move, SPACE to progress dialogue or narration, and Z or X to select pivotal choices. Each decision you make subtly shifts the course of this 4000-word interactive horror novella, leading to hauntingly different endings that linger long after the credits roll.

Perfect for newcomers and genre veterans alike, The End of Decay balances straightforward, accessible gameplay with rich storytelling and surprising depth. Whether you’re glimpsing unsettling illustrations, piecing together the mysterious lore, or searching for every last hidden ending, the game rewards curiosity and persistence with atmospheric detail and clever twists. Plus, with complete mobile support, you can uncover the secrets of the library anywhere, anytime—no download required.

If you crave unique indie stories, love interactive fiction, or just want a bite-sized scare that sticks with you, The End of Decay is a haunting, free adventure you shouldn't miss. Are you ready to turn the page and confront what history has tried to bury?

How to Play

Begin your journey in a quiet library corrupted by arcane secrets. Use your keyboard's ARROW KEYS to move your character through a pixel-art labyrinth of bookshelves, hidden passages, and spectral curiosities. As you explore, press SPACE to advance dialogue, unravel lore, and reveal narrative twists. At crucial moments, use Z or X to make choices—these will impact your story’s outcome, with multiple subtle endings to discover.

The End of Decay is designed for both seasoned adventurers and beginners. The intuitive controls make entry easy, but every nook and cranny holds secrets for those who search. Listen closely—the atmospheric audio and unique visuals provide clues and foreshadowing. On mobile, simply use on-screen controls, making it effortless to play on the go. Take your time, absorb the story, and experiment with different decisions to fully experience the narrative depth.

Tips for newcomers: Read carefully, as subtle hints in the story and illustrations may point to hidden choices. Don’t rush—you’ll want to savor each haunted moment. If you get stuck, retrace your steps or try alternative options at branching points. The magic of The End of Decay is in its layered narrative—immerse yourself, question everything, and let curiosity guide you toward every ending.

Controls

mouse

keyboard

Tips & Tricks

Read the dialogue closely—tiny details can hint at branching paths or secret endings.
Test out different choices at story junctures; the game rewards experimentation with new outcomes.
Explore every area of the library—many illustrations conceal hidden lore or clues.
Play with headphones to experience the full impact of the immersive sound design.
If you want all endings, keep track of choices; some are subtly different but lead to unique finales.
On mobile, use landscape mode for optimal control layout and visual clarity.
Don’t be afraid to revisit earlier sections—replaying can reveal missed content and lore.

Game Features

Haunting, original pixel-art illustrations that amplify the horror atmosphere.
Interactive branching narrative with multiple subtly different endings to discover.
Accessible browser-based gameplay—no downloads required, play free instantly.
Immersive sound design that heightens suspense and emotional impact.
Mobile compatibility so you can delve into the mystery anywhere, anytime.
Simple yet effective controls, suitable for gamers of all experience levels.
A unique indie collaboration, making it a true standout in the Bitsy jam scene.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many endings does The End of Decay have?

The End of Decay features multiple subtly different endings. Each key choice you make can shift the narrative outcome, so replaying with different choices reveals new perspectives and finales.

Can I play The End of Decay on my phone or tablet?

Absolutely! The End of Decay runs smoothly on all modern mobile devices thanks to its full HTML5 compatibility. Just open the game in your browser and enjoy the adventure.

Is there any cost or sign-up required to play?

No, The End of Decay is completely free to play in your browser with no sign-up, download, or account required. Jump in and start exploring right away!

I'm new to adventure games—is this game easy to play?

Yes! The End of Decay is designed with newcomers in mind. The controls are simple and intuitive, and the story will guide you through the experience without overwhelming you.

Do previous choices really matter, or is the story mostly linear?

Your choices genuinely affect the outcome. While the core story is tightly woven, subtle decisions throughout your playthrough branch the narrative into different endings and reveal hidden layers.