(Don't) Open Your Eyes for Windows

Horror-themed visual novel

This title will take you on a conversation with a mysterious nighttime visitor. You have two options: you can help the visitor create a picture of themselves, or you can ignore the character and watch what happens. There are many conversation options that can lead to different stories.

Visual novels, also known as interactive stories, can be difficult to master. The visual element is usually composed of static or animated screens. The story takes the form of multiple-choice conversation options. (Don't Open Your Eyes) follows these conventions to a T.

The game has only one location: the bedroom. This game is a visual novel that uses illustration rather than cutting-edge graphics. The bedroom is a still image while the nighttime version is sketched.

(Don't Open Your Eyes) It doesn't take much more, but it's still a shame there is no way to look around the room or see how ambient lighting changes shadows. Although the monster should be a concern, its various body parts can look more funny than menacing.

While you're trying sleep, a strange creature appears and begins a conversation. Your thoughts are displayed on-screen but your voice is not heard. The creature only asks you multiple choices of answers.

The game will then respond to your choices and grant the monster the features that you have selected. Are its eyes sad or empty? Are there any broken hands or claws? Each option unlocks a slightly different dialogue from the monster.

The creature is well-voiced and well-acted. Its story and thoughts change depending on how you describe them. There are 27 possible combinations for body parts and dialogue branches which give the game replayability.

(Don't Open Your Eyes) doesn't have the literary chops necessary to convey its basic concept. The creature's inexplicable nature can be a source of emotion, but the script is often too flowery and not concise. Although it's a great idea, the title lacks finesse.