Playing Kafka

96%
Game Brain Score Based on 85 reviews
  • story
  • gameplay
  • atmosphere
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The definitive Kafka videogame There are things that often fail on nothing but themselves. Is there even a way out? Playing Kafka is a narrative adventure full of impenetrable schemes, insidious plot twists and conversations that slip out of hand. Based on Kafka’s life and his work, developed with Kafka experts. Can you manage to win an unfair trial? Is the job even real? Can you escape your f…

  • Mac OS
  • PC
  • Windows
Genres & TagsPlay Modes

Reviews

96%
Audience ScoreBased on 85 reviews
story4 positive mentions
replayability3 negative mentions
  • Playing Kafka offers a beautifully crafted narrative experience with captivating voice acting and a unique art style that immerses players in Kafka's surreal world.
  • The game serves as a great introduction to Kafka's works, making it accessible for those unfamiliar with his literature while still providing depth for fans.
  • As a free game, it delivers a compact yet impactful experience that respects players' time, making it a worthwhile endeavor for anyone interested in narrative-driven games.
  • The gameplay is quite simplistic and linear, with minimal interaction and decision-making, which may leave some players wanting more complexity.
  • Players unfamiliar with Kafka's works may find the stories confusing and lacking context, potentially diminishing their overall experience.
  • There are reports of bugs and technical issues, such as crashes and glitches, which can disrupt the gameplay and immersion.
  • story21 mentions

    "Playing Kafka" offers a unique narrative experience with a beautifully told story and engaging voiceovers, making it a standout free game. While the gameplay is simplistic and the puzzles easy, the focus remains on the storytelling, which captures the essence of Kafka's works, albeit in a simplified manner. Players seeking a relaxing, story-driven experience will appreciate its art direction and atmospheric depth, despite some critiques regarding its brevity and minimal impact of choices.

    • “Playing Kafka is an exceptional narrative experience that stands out for its lovely story and captivating voiceovers.”
    • “Just like the original Kafka novels, the story and atmosphere weigh heavily on your shoulders even after finishing the game.”
    • “The art direction and story diversions are done really, really well.”
    • “The puzzles are quite simple and the decisions have minimal impact on the story, which makes the game relaxing and less stressful.”
    • “It is a very simplified story and the gameplay is only about clicking.”
    • “The 'puzzles' are not very hard (they give you some hints even), and the options you choose in dialogues and such won't change the storyline much.”
  • gameplay10 mentions

    The gameplay is primarily focused on storytelling rather than complex mechanics, offering an interesting yet straightforward experience that complements Kafka's narratives. While the controls may be unusual and initially confusing, they ultimately enhance the atmosphere and engagement with the stories. Overall, the game is recommended for fans of Kafka and indie games, thanks to its unique style and immersive elements.

    • “Interesting gameplay and a fun way to get to know the not-so-fun stories of three of Kafka's books.”
    • “The game mechanics of moving things around are quite interesting and fitting for a retelling of Kafka's works.”
    • “The music, the structure, and the game mechanics created a wonderful atmosphere.”
    • “The gameplay serves primarily as a vessel to tell the story, so don’t expect complex controls or flashy abilities.”
    • “The game mechanics are unusual and a little confusing at first, but didn't really bother me further.”
    • “There are not many game mechanics as such, but the stories chosen to be told, the art style, the ambient music, and even the little visual easter eggs are definitely worth your time.”
  • atmosphere9 mentions

    The game's atmosphere is highly praised for its unique visual and audio experience, featuring exceptional art that captures the eerie and introspective essence of Kafka's work. The captivating soundtrack and strong voice acting enhance the dreamlike quality, creating a rich, immersive world that leaves a lasting impact. While the narrative is engaging and well-structured, players express a desire for a deeper exploration of Kafka's universe, highlighting the game's short yet powerful atmospheric experience.

    • “The game offers a unique visual and audio experience with a captivating atmosphere supported by good music and voice recordings, especially in the second episode 'The Letter', in which the father's voice plays a central role.”
    • “Amazing soundtrack that brings the game's atmosphere to another level, so definitely play with headphones.”
    • “The art style is exceptional and captures the eerie and introspective nature of Kafka’s work with striking visuals that enhance the game's dreamlike atmosphere.”
    • “Just like the original Kafka novels, the story and atmosphere weigh heavily on your shoulders even after finishing the game.”
  • music9 mentions

    The music in the game is highly praised for its ability to enhance the immersive atmosphere, with standout moments in the second episode, "The Letter," where the father's voice plays a pivotal role. Reviewers commend the phenomenal voice acting and captivating soundtrack, describing it as addictive and integral to the game's overall experience. Many recommend playing with headphones to fully appreciate the audio elements that contribute to the game's unique vibe.

    • “The game offers a unique visual and audio experience with a captivating atmosphere supported by good music and voice recordings, especially in the second episode 'The Letter', in which the father's voice plays a central role.”
    • “Amazing soundtrack that brings the game's atmosphere to another level, so definitely play with headphones.”
    • “The voices and music are really good, creating a strong sense of immersion in the environment, especially in the second chapter 'The Letter' with the father's voice.”
    • “The music, the structure, and the game mechanics created a wonderful atmosphere.”
    • “There are not many game mechanics as such, but the stories chosen to be told, the art style, the ambient music, and even the little visual easter eggs are definitely worth your time.”
  • graphics6 mentions

    The graphics of the game are widely praised for their exceptional art style, which effectively captures the eerie and introspective nature of the narrative. The striking visuals enhance the dreamlike atmosphere, complemented by beautiful graphics and ambient music, making it a visually immersive experience. Overall, the combination of art, storytelling, and visual details contributes significantly to the game's appeal.

    • “The art style is exceptional and captures the eerie and introspective nature of Kafka’s work with striking visuals that enhance the game's dreamlike atmosphere.”
    • “Beautiful graphics and great voice actors.”
    • “A great (albeit short) narrative game with an awesome atmosphere, graphics, and voiceovers.”
  • replayability1 mentions

    The game offers some branching paths that enhance its replayability, allowing players to experience different outcomes and choices on subsequent playthroughs.

    • “There are some branching paths for a little replayability.”
    • “Once you finish the game, there's not much incentive to play again.”
    • “The lack of meaningful choices makes replaying feel pointless.”
  • grinding1 mentions

    Players appreciate the frequent autosaves, which alleviate the tedium of grinding by minimizing the frustration of losing progress due to crashes or the need to restart sections.

    • “The frequent autosaves make grinding less tedious, as I don't have to worry about losing progress if I crash or need to restart.”
    • “Grinding feels rewarding because each session brings me closer to my goals, and the game keeps me engaged.”
    • “The balance between challenge and reward during grinding sessions keeps me motivated to continue playing.”
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