Amidst the proliferation of horror games that rely on jump scares and aggressive monsters, The Remains of Dahlia takes a quieter and more personal path. This indie psychological horror game delivers an investigative experience that focuses on story, atmosphere, and emotional tension, rather than action or chases. Released on December 5, 2025, for PC via Steam, the game was developed by STUDIO PUZU, an indie studio that strives to present horror from the perspective of everyday people dealing with loss.
The Mystery of Loss that is the Starting Point
The story of The Remains of Dahlia is set in the early 2010s. A woman named Dahlia is reported mysteriously missing after leaving her home. There are no clear witnesses, no solid evidence, and the police investigation ends in vain. The case slowly goes cold, leaving those closest to her with a huge question mark.
Players take on the role of Bowo, Dahlia’s husband, who refuses to accept this uncertainty. Years after his wife’s disappearance, he decides to return to explore the house and its surroundings, trying to piece together fragments of memories, clues, and possible truths that have been buried for so long. This is where the gameplay experience begins not as a hero, but as someone riddled with guilt, longing, and uncertainty.
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Horror Built from Atmosphere
Rather than explicitly presenting a terrifying creature, The Remains of Dahlia builds its horror through a depressing atmosphere. The game’s environment is dominated by a simple house and surrounding area that feels quiet, empty, and uncomfortable. Every room suggests something has happened there, though it’s never explicitly explained.
This approach creates a documentary feel, as if the player is watching real footage of a long-ago tragedy. These visual effects aren’t just gimmicks; they play a crucial role in building a constant sense of insecurity and tension.
The sound design also plays a significant role. There is no constant music playing. Instead, the player is often accompanied by the sounds of footsteps, creaking doors, and lingering silences. It is in this silence that the sense of dread slowly grows.
Simple yet Meaningful Investigative Gameplay
In terms of gameplay, The Remains of Dahlia features fairly simple mechanics. Players explore the environment, interact with objects, read notes, and collect evidence. There’s no complex combat system or reflex challenges. The game’s primary focus is observation and interpretation.
Every clue the player discovers helps clarify what really happened to Dahlia. However, the game deliberately doesn’t present clear answers. Players must piece together their own narrative from the pieces of information provided. This approach makes the gameplay experience feel more personal, as each player can draw different conclusions.
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Interestingly, the choices players make and the order in which evidence is discovered also influence the story’s progression. The Remains of Dahlia features multiple endings, representing different perspectives on the mystery. This mechanism encourages players to play more thoroughly and, for some, to replay the game to explore other possibilities.
Short Duration, Long Emotional Impact
With a runtime of less than an hour, The Remains of Dahlia is certainly not a long game. However, its strength lies in its density. No content feels superfluous or merely filler. Every moment is designed to support the atmosphere and story it’s trying to convey.
Themes of loss, regret, and harsh truths are at the heart of this experience. The horror presented isn’t just about fear of the supernatural, but also about facing a reality that may be more painful than ignorance.
An Intimate Horror Experience
As an indie horror game, The Remains of Dahlia may not offer major mechanical innovations or sophisticated visuals. However, its strength lies in its intimate story and consistent atmosphere. This game is suitable for players who enjoy psychological horror, slow-paced narratives, and a more reflective gaming experience.
For those looking for fast-paced horror full of surprises, this game may feel too calm. But for players who enjoy quiet investigations and emotional stories, The Remains of Dahlia can leave a lasting impression, even after the credits have rolled.
Try Remains Of Dahlia on Steam!
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