Rakuen

Rakuen is a single-player narrative adventure. The story follows a young boy confined to a hospital. Guided by his mother, he discovers a doorway into a parallel fantasy world that reflects the lives and struggles of the patients around him. His main goal is to aid these people by uncovering their regrets, fears, and hidden stories, ultimately seeking a wish from the guardian of the magical world known as the Guardian of the Forest. Rather than focusing on combat, the experience emphasizes empathy, problem-solving, and connection between the real and imaginary realms.

Gameplay is presented in a top-down perspective reminiscent of 16-bit era role-playing games. Players control the boy as he explores both the hospital and the fantasy world, moving freely, interacting with characters, and solving environmental puzzles. Progress comes from completing quests that often require traveling between the two realms, revealing how events in one world mirror or resolve situations in the other.

There is no combat system. Instead, progression is built around dialogue, exploration, and puzzle mechanics. Tasks might involve finding key items, deciphering simple logic challenges, or assisting non-player characters with personal problems. These actions gradually open new areas and move the story forward. Items collected serve more as quest tools than traditional inventory.