Free Will

About

"Free Will" is a 2D pixelated RPG where players must help a sick boy, Will, fight reality-breaking monsters and cleanse corruption from the game's system. The game features meta-puzzles that require file manipulation and different endings based on replayability. Content warnings include themes of depression, cartoon violence, and bright flashing imagery.

Genres & Tags

Play Modes

Single-Player Play through the game's story or campaign solo

97%

Audience ScoreBased on 174 reviews

story16 positive mentions

stability2 negative mentions

The game features a unique concept that involves manipulating game files, providing an engaging and immersive experience.
Players found the story to be emotional and impactful, with well-designed puzzles that encourage out-of-the-box thinking.
It's a free game that offers a short but memorable experience, making it highly recommended for fans of meta-narrative and psychological horror games.

Some players experienced frustration due to mutually exclusive achievements, making it impossible to obtain 100% completion without using external tools.
The game can be confusing at times, especially for those unfamiliar with file manipulation, leading to moments of getting stuck.
A few users reported technical issues, such as problems with file interactions and needing to run the game from specific directories to progress.

story
36 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
44%
48%
8%
The game features a rich and engaging story that captivates players with its unique narrative style and emotional depth, often enhanced by effective fourth wall breaks and a compelling soundtrack. While the game is relatively short, it offers memorable experiences through its innovative mechanics and thought-provoking puzzles, making it a standout choice for fans of story-driven games. Overall, players recommend it for its concise storytelling and immersive gameplay, particularly for those who enjoy meta-narrative elements.
- “This game is a must play if you want a game with a rich story and puzzles that are unique and make you think long and hard.”
- “The way you're actually able to manipulate the story and how everything works is something I didn't think was even possible in games, but it's done so amazingly here.”
- “I don't like this story; I came close to crying.”
- “Overall, the story and lore are decent, considering its short duration.”
- “For although short, the story was concise, emotional, and had me hooked.”
gameplay
20 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
30%
55%
15%
The gameplay is characterized by engaging meta interactions and file manipulation, creating a unique and enjoyable experience. Players appreciate the intuitive mechanics, well-designed puzzles, and a charming narrative, likening it to an "Undertale-like" experience with a clever twist. Despite its short length, the game effectively utilizes its gameplay gimmick, leaving players intrigued and entertained.
- “The gameplay experience hooked me quickly with the meta interactions and file manipulation.”
- “Overall, this game provides an interesting and enjoyable experience with unique mechanics, engaging story, and well-designed puzzles.”
- “The mechanics weren't super complex but still made you work a bit, and this is one of the few games that has made me genuinely think I broke my computer.”
- “This game, while short, is an excellent demo of what can be done with quick setup, a charming gameplay gimmick (always a fan of file management/desktop simulators), and a main character that is easily likable right from the get-go.”
- “An Undertale-like gameplay with some twists.”
music
18 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
78%
22%
The music in the game is widely praised for its catchiness and ability to enhance immersion, with many players noting that it complements the narrative effectively. The soundtrack, particularly the song from the kipps mini-game, has left a lasting impression on players, making it memorable and enjoyable. Overall, the music is considered a standout feature that contributes significantly to the game's atmosphere and storytelling.
- “The music is good, enhancing immersion and making you feel more connected to the story.”
- “The music is very catchy; I've had the Kipps mini-game song stuck in my head all day now.”
- “Great story concepts and a good soundtrack.”
emotional
14 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
100%
Players consistently highlight the game's emotional depth, noting its ability to evoke strong feelings, including tears, through a concise and touching narrative. The story, particularly centered around a young boy named Will, is described as both heartbreaking and engaging, leaving a lasting impact on players. Overall, the game is recognized for its powerful emotional resonance, despite its short length.
- “Amazing game, shouldn't have made me cry as much as it did.”
- “For although short, the story was concise, emotional, and had me hooked.”
- “This harrowing tale of a young boy by the name of Will is an extremely touching and beautiful game; it hits notes of sadness.”
graphics
6 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
50%
50%
The graphics of the game are praised for their unique art style, reminiscent of Undertale, while also offering a distinct visual identity that enhances the storytelling. Users appreciate the combination of appealing artwork and complementary music, contributing to an engaging overall aesthetic.
- “I was looking to try some free games because I was bored of the ones I had, and this one caught my eye with its Undertale-like art style, yet it had its completely unique style and storytelling.”
- “Also love the artwork!”
- “Both the art style and music are great.”
stability
2 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
100%
Users report that while the game generally maintains stability, minor glitches can gradually appear, potentially leading to more significant issues over time.
- “However, minor glitches occur slowly before the corruption emerges.”
atmosphere
2 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
100%
The atmosphere of the game is highly praised for its ability to create discomfort and evoke a sense of spookiness, particularly through its atmospheric tracks. This immersive quality effectively enhances the overall experience, leaving players feeling unsettled.
- “The atmospheric tracks did a really good job of making me feel uncomfortable and spooked.”
replayability
2 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
50%
50%
The game offers strong replayability as players can explore both endings, encouraging multiple playthroughs to fully experience the narrative.
- “Both endings are playable, allowing players to experience each outcome.”
- “Both endings are playable to experience each ending.”