Independent developer and publisher 5J6B Works has made available a Steam demo for their forthcoming choice-driven psychological thriller visual novel, Anti-Anti. The game is slated for a full release on October 27 and incorporates multiple points of view (POVs), a keyword-based conversation mechanic, and quick time events.
The narrative unfolds ten years after a world ravaged by slime creatures, following an unwilling participant in Next Bright—an audition organized by the StarLight.ENT corporation. StarLight.ENT is the entity behind Light, a legendary idol who ten years prior united nations and aided society’s recovery through their performances. After being abducted by the company, you and nine other contestants vie in Next Bright for the chance to become the next idol and secure a substantial cash reward. Throughout this journey, you uncover the mysteries surrounding StarLight.ENT, the idol Light, and the post-apocalyptic setting.
Players utilize keywords gathered during the story to deduce characters’ inner thoughts. Dialogue options must be selected based on the relationship between the character you’re currently controlling and the individual they’re conversing with. Different character viewpoints become accessible depending on your decisions, which modify the narrative and the perception of certain events.
With 12 main characters, Anti-Anti encourages multiple playthroughs to experience each character’s perspective. The game plans to deliver six endings upon launch: one true ending, two standard endings, and three negative endings. A single playthrough aimed at achieving the true ending is estimated to take around six hours.
For players who prefer to avoid tension-inducing quick time events, the game offers an easy mode that allows for story enjoyment without reflex-based challenges. Replaying successive runs is facilitated by a Choice History feature, which logs your decisions, and a Skip feature, which lets you bypass previously viewed scenes.
While not classified as a dating sim, Anti-Anti incorporates romantic elements with mature content. The developer has likened this content to a 17+ age rating, advising players to exercise discretion when playing in the presence of family.
Anti-Anti was crafted entirely by human creators and features over 229 CG illustrations, 57 background images, and 16 background music tracks.
Anti-Anti is scheduled to launch on October 27 for Windows (Steam) and Stove. A complimentary demo is available on Steam.