Elven Curse

This simple non-field RPG challenges you to escape a cursed forest.

- Prologue -

You're the village's best hunter. A national hunting tournament is being held near the royal capital, and you've traveled far to compete. After the opening ceremony, you ventured into the forest, full of anticipation. Waking up after your first night camping, you discover something unsettling: you're alone. The camp, once bustling with hunters, is deserted. National guards usually monitor the tournament, but they're nowhere to be found. Your initial caution gives way to unease as you realize the danger of your situation. No matter how long you wait, nobody appears. You begin to walk, only to encounter another strange phenomenon – a tree with peculiar branches… a tree you're certain you've already passed. You seem to be trapped in a loop, despite your excellent sense of direction. This is undeniably strange. You fight the urge to panic and continue exploring.

- What is the "Elven Curse"? -

With the help of a quarter-elf, you, the hunter, must escape the cursed forest. Gameplay is incredibly simple, using a maximum of three buttons at any given time (excluding the main menu).

- Character Creation -

While you can't manually customize your character, you can reroll your stats as often as needed. Stat increases upon leveling up are only visible on this screen; this information isn't available in-game. Stat rerolling is an in-game option. Game over occurs when your life force reaches zero and you have fewer than two "talismans."

- Peddler Quarter-Elf "Foria" -

A young (or not so young) quarter-elf you encounter in the forest. Despite his childlike appearance, he claims to be older than you. He remains aloof from the trouble but secretly aids your escape using the forest's ancient spirits.

- Story and Setting -

The prologue unfolds smoothly like a picture story. Foria's dialogue is cheerful, contrasting with the quiet, subtly evocative world-building.

- Exploration Mode -

Forest paths connecting base areas are revealed through exploration. Uncovering unexplored areas in each section allows progression. The outcome of each exploration attempt depends on the area's "fog depth," influenced by your character's stats. When your life force is depleted, you can use poison to restore it. Rare "talismans" might also be necessary, potentially requiring a return to Foria.

- Beast Encounters & Hunter Battles -

Fierce creatures roam the forest, including wild dogs, wolves, and surprisingly, even frogs and rabbits. Defeating them yields hides for trading with Foria. Unlike typical RPGs, combat doesn't grant experience. The goal is escape, and there are no set boss battles. All battles are avoidable (though this requires luck or strategic play).

As a hunter, you use a bow and arrow. Maintaining distance is crucial for attacking without receiving counterattacks, though closing the distance might be necessary. When far from a beast, you can shoot arrows or use wound medicine. If the distance is closed, you'll be attacked. Your choices are to withdraw (with variable success) or use a "flash" ball provided by Foria for guaranteed escape.

- Cloak & Layering System -

Using branches, resin, and leather, you can craft a cloak to enhance your abilities. Up to three layers are possible, with abilities increasing with each layer. The top layer can be damaged and eventually destroyed. The bow and arrow remain unchanged.

- Game Features -

This isn't just a game; it's an experience. It features: random skill selection, reflex and strategic challenges, item collection, synthesis, and alchemy. It's a game where preparation is key, though progress is possible even with casual play.

- Auto-Save -

The game autosaves, but not during battles. For reliable saving, it's recommended to close the app from the main menu.

- Version 1.2 Update (Dec 18, 2024) -

Bug fixes (including a character creation mode transition bug), typo corrections, minor bug fixes, message changes, and credit additions.