Ghost Moth (demo) by Rhiannon Daly

[raw]
made by Rhiannon Daly for Ludum Dare 50 (JAM)

A few decades ago, the human species almost died out. And not even in the way we expected. It was something from underground, you think. Or maybe it was the ocean? Whatever, you didn't pay much attention in school, but it's called the Blight and we survived it. They say if we keep it up we'll have most of the planet back in 20 years. Sure, but for now, you hate your job, and you would say it hated you back if it even seemed to know that you're alive. Still, it gets you out of the house, and this next assignment seems pretty alright. A day and a half's hike into the Restoration Zone, some cleanup work, and then you come home with a bigger paycheck than usual. What could go wrong?

ghost moth cover photo.jpg trailblazr_logo1.jpg

GHOST MOTH is a science fiction horror text game made in Twine by Rhiannon Naomi Daly, about parasitism, gig work, revenge, and the economics of sacrificing what makes you human to remain alive just a little longer.

content warnings for body horror, parasitism, fungi, insect imagery, mind control/possession, discussion of suicide, implied transphobia, and mention of drugs

I eventually intend to publish a full game with additional gameplay features, more extensive art, a soundtrack, and an expanded story. due to the time restriction and some unforeseen health issues, this is a pretty bare bones demo of what the game will eventually be. parts of it are incomplete. this is my first game, my first experience with twine, and my first work of fiction of this length.

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Ratings

Given 2🗳️ 2🗨️

Feedback

jess from online
05. Apr 2022 · 16:31 UTC
Wow, that was absolutely beautiful. Haunting, and beautiful. The writing is superb. Any fan of Annihilation/the Area X trilogy should especially check this out. Or anyone who wants an excellent first-person critique of the gig economy.

The rotating text to deliver multiple narratives in one line & linear format is really interesting and compelling as a mechanic, as are the forced text entries. I'm looking forward to seeing the game even more finished mechanically, and I think music will also make it even better in a very impactful way.

If there's one line to sell you on this game: "You think that Gregor Samsa had it easy because at least he got to stay home from work."
LDJam user 282870
06. Apr 2022 · 02:35 UTC
Well written. good job, Thanks for the effort