HIKEBACK
About HIKEBACK
HIKEBACK Overview
What is HIKEBACK?
HIKEBACK is a gripping visual novel that delves into themes of trust, self-sabotage, and eternal cycles. Born from the SCREAMORTALITY game jam, this game invites players into a chilling narrative that unfolds over a journey through a dark mountain road. As the driver, you encounter a mysterious hitchhiker on a late-night drive, and your decisions dictate not just the fates of you and the hitchhiker, but also intertwine with existential consequences across multiple planes of existence.
The game immerses players in a dark, surreal world inspired by campfire ghost stories, found footage horror films, and modern fables. With a narrative that evolves based on player choices, HIKEBACK offers a haunting exploration of fate and self-determination. The experience is enriched by an evocative soundtrack by Sam Tudor, reminiscent of the eerie atmospheres found in games like Silent Hill and Oxenfree.
How to Play HIKEBACK
Playing HIKEBACK is straightforward, but the decisions you make are crucial to experiencing the full depth of the game. Here’s a guide to help you navigate the game:
- Start Your Journey: Begin by driving down the mountain road as the main character. The initial part of the game sets up the premise and introduces the hitchhiker.
- Encounter the Hitchhiker: As you spot the hitchhiker, you’ll be faced with a choice: stop to pick them up or continue driving. This decision is the first of many that will shape the narrative.
- Make Choices: Throughout the game, you’ll encounter various scenarios and dialogue options. Each choice you make will influence the story’s direction and outcome.
- Explore Multiple Endings: HIKEBACK features 18 different endings, each shaped by the choices you make. Some endings are variants of others, but the key is to explore different paths to uncover all the possible outcomes.
- Experience the Story: The game’s dark and surreal narrative unfolds through your decisions. Pay attention to the story's details and the hitchhiker's responses, as these will guide you toward the different endings.
- Replay for Completion: To fully appreciate the game, replay it multiple times. Each playthrough offers new insights and different story paths, helping you understand the game's complex narrative structure.
HIKEBACK combines a compelling story with a haunting soundtrack, making it a unique and memorable visual novel experience.
