Ichima-san
Release date: Aug 8, 2024
Developers: sewohayami
Publishers: sewohayami
Genres: Action, Adventure, Indie
Categories: Single-player, Full controller support, Camera Comfort, Custom Volume Controls, Playable without Timed Input, Save Anytime, Stereo Sound, Family Sharing
Supported languages: English, Japanese

Game Overview You, the player, have somehow lost your human body and been turned into an ‘Ichimatsu doll’. In this action-adventure game, you must explore a traditional Japanese house to find a way to turn back to normal. The general course of action is using hints to hunt down various items that will enhance your abilities. You mustn’t allow yourself to be spotted by living humans. If you feel you’re about to be seen, you can play dead like an inanimate doll. Should you be spotted, run away as fast as you can. If you get caught, it's game over. While you can’t fight against humans directly, some of the items you collect can be used to create poltergeist phenomena that can stun or distract them. Lovable Characters Along the way, you'll receive assistance from various objects inhabited by ‘tsukumogami’. They may (or may not) give you game hints. There are plenty of hints to come across, though, so even players who are not good at adventure games can enjoy playing. Fun Mini-Games for a Relaxing Life as an Ichimatsu Doll Throughout the game, there are various relaxing activities such as fishing, dancing, racing, and more. You can even ride on top of a robot vacuum cleaner! If you really want to, you can simply forget about getting your human body back and enjoy the easygoing life of an Ichimatsu doll. Hiragana Mode To allow a wide range of people to enjoy the game, a Hiragana-only option is also available. It is recommended for children, those who are not yet comfortable with Kanji, and those who are just starting to learn Japanese. Background of Development Originally, Ichimatsu dolls were toys cherished and played with by young girls, and they were thought of as friends. Over time, many people started to think they are creepy or scary. They are commonly used as horror motifs nowadays. We felt there ought to be at least one piece of media that returns to Ichimatsu dolls ‘roots by highlighting their cuter, more playful side, thus leading to the development of this game. In addition to Ichimatsu dolls, the game is filled to the brim with nostalgic echoes of Japanese customs and culture that have gradually been falling into obscurity. We recommend the game to anyone who wants immerse themselves in a myriad of uniquely Japanese experiences. Please enjoy this slightly scary, sometimes bittersweet, and heartwarming adventure.