Artificial Instincts stands out as an indie RPG in the visual novel format, blending elements of boys' love romance with psychological science fantasy. Set in a near-future world where advanced AI research is banned, this single-player title follows Lucas, a reluctant protagonist with mind-altering powers, as he navigates daily struggles, chaotic events, and complex relationships. As the final entry in The Mind Deceivers trilogy, it offers standalone play while sharing a cohesive worldview with previous games.
Gameplay
In Artificial Instincts, the core experience revolves around interactive storytelling where choices shape the narrative. Players guide Lucas through dialogues and decisions that influence relationships and plot directions. The mind-altering ability serves as a key mechanic, allowing subtle manipulations that affect character interactions and outcomes. A unique twist involves pruning unnecessary characters from Lucas's life to unlock personal routes, emphasizing themes of letting go and personal growth.
Gameplay spans about 12 hours for full completion, including unlocking all achievements. Built-in tools like toggleable guides and a story flowchart help track progress and revisit branches without frustration. This setup caters to players who enjoy replaying scenarios to explore different paths, with a focus on drama over heavy romance.
Game Modes
Artificial Instincts operates in a single-player mode, centered on branching storylines rather than traditional multiplayer or competitive formats. The game features three main branching narratives tied to romanceable characters, each leading to distinct developments.
Players progress by exiting general paths and committing to specific routes, which unlock varied endings. With 13 possible conclusions, including three happy ones and one true ending, the structure encourages multiple playthroughs to experience the full scope of the story.
Story and Setting
The game unfolds in 2079, decades after an AI bubble burst that outlawed strong AI development. A reality show sparks the central conflict by claiming an AI presence among participants, drawing Lucas into unintended trouble. This backdrop explores themes of identity, regulation, and hidden abilities in a world wary of technological overreach.
Characters bring depth to the narrative: Lucas, the psychic protagonist juggling jobs and past traumas; his roommate, a childhood friend aspiring to create the first AGI; a detective from an AI authority with insider knowledge; and a robotics company founder adding tech intrigue. These figures drive the plot through interpersonal dynamics and cameo appearances from the trilogy.
Is It Worth Playing?
For fans of visual novels with psychological depth and boys' love elements, Artificial Instincts holds strong appeal, especially as an indie title emphasizing story branching and character-driven drama. Its focus on mind manipulation and relationship pruning offers a fresh take on choice-based gameplay, suitable for those who prefer narrative exploration over action.
Currently in an upcoming state with a release date to be announced, it suits players interested in sci-fi fantasies and trilogy conclusions. If you enjoy games with multiple endings and replay value, this could be a solid addition to your library, provided the themes of mild language, criminal depictions, and alcohol use align with your preferences.
