Best games by MAGES. Inc.

ANONYMOUS;CODE (2023)

ANONYMOUS;CODE (2023) is the latest thrilling entry from STEINS;GATE creator Chiyomaru Shikura, developed in collaboration with returning staff from the acclaimed Science Adventure Series. Set in a 2037 Nakano, Tokyo, still grappling with the aftermath of the 'Sad Morning' disaster, the story follows Pollon Takaoka, a professional hacker living on the fringes. His life takes an unexpected turn when he meets the enigmatic Momo in a restricted area, leading to a frantic escape where he gains the extraordinary 'Save & Load' app—a power allowing him to manipulate reality like a video game. This newfound ability plunges Pollon into a global conspiracy involving the mysterious genius hacker 'Cicada 3301,' the reactivated 'Gaia Institute' earth simulation, and the shadowy '513 Holy Office' of the Vatican. As Pollon navigates myriad plots and faces world-shaking events, players are tasked with unraveling a complex truth by hacking the branches of reality and loading the ending that saves the world, becoming the hackers destined to rewrite the future. As a visual novel, ANONYMOUS;CODE innovatively redefines player agency through the 'Hacking Trigger' system. Instead of traditional dialogue choices, players directly advise Pollon on when to 'Save' and 'Load,' using their judgment to manipulate the timeline and steer the narrative's outcome. This collaborative approach between player and protagonist is crucial, demanding strategic foresight to navigate the intricate web of events and uncover the ultimate truth. ANONYMOUS;CODE rightfully earns its place among the best games by MAGES. Inc. by embodying the studio's celebrated hallmarks. It leverages the deep, interwoven narrative complexity and high-concept scientific themes perfected in the Science Adventure Series, delivering a meta-narrative twist on player choice that elevates the visual novel experience. With its compelling conspiracy, unforgettable characters, and unique gameplay mechanics, it continues MAGES.'s tradition of pushing genre boundaries while delivering emotionally resonant and intellectually stimulating stories.