Free point-and-click visual novel
Off Day is a free point-and-click visual novel by viv_url for Windows. It’s a well-designed narrative that teaches you to enjoy the smaller moments in life. You’ll follow the daily life of Melody as she embarks on a journey to change her outlook and appreciate her surroundings more.
Similar to other small Windows-based games like Goodbye, Doggy, Memochi Dust and Adventures with Anxiety, Off Day tackles a difficult psycho-social concept. The technique and story in this game are gentle enough not to cause psychological harm but powerful enough to teach you lessons about a healthy outlook on life.
Off Day is presented as a novel, with all of Mel’s thoughts and interactions appearing on screen for you to read. The primary setting in Off Day is Melody’s bedroom. The graphics are reminiscent of manga or anime, with a render quality that catapults the entire story closer to reality. Ultra-realistic shadows and light, in addition to basic scene shading and particle physics, create a pleasing atmosphere for Mel’s in-game journey.
Graphics
Off Day’s theme is primarily peach and pink, creating a soft, gentle and unobtrusive visual environment. Blur effects and light FOV effects turn the game into a more immersive experience.
Dive deep
The game lets you take on Melody’s journey in your own space. As you look around Mel’s surroundings for memory fragments, objects and moments for her to appreciate, you’re drawn to view your own immediate surroundings with more appreciation.
Off Day is a deep dive into your innermost emotions and draws you in from Mel’s first thought; ‘It’s hard to find the strength to do what I need to do, and the days are starting to blur together’.
A game for the mind
Off Day provides a virtual interface to deal with the pressures of daily life. You can step into Melody’s shoes and assist her in finding more to be grateful for in her surroundings. You also have a chance to subconsciously learn to appreciate your own surroundings.
With only 30 minutes of game time, Off Day is low on time commitment, with fantastic graphics and gameplay. All in all, Off Day is the quintessential small Windows-based game for anyone looking to kill some time or learn a little about the importance of recognising the importance of the little things.
