Platforms - PC/Mac/Linux
Let me just say this upfront: I did not expect enjoy this game as much as I did. And yet, here I am, writing a positive review about a short dating sim where Death slides into your DMs.
Don't judge me too much for playing this, what can I say? I kind of like these games!
Sliding Into the DMs (of Death)
The character you play here is just a pretty average person. You get no tragic backstory and no hidden magic powers, just someone who’s inexplicably survived more brushes with death than makes any sense, and one day, you open your laptop and find a strange messaging app already installed.
Waiting inside? A series of increasingly frustrated messages from someone claiming to be Death. He says you’ve cheated the system one too many times, and he’s here to collect. But he’s also kind of bad at it. Instead of reaping your soul, he ends up stuck in conversation with you, and from there, things spiral from one extreme to the other.
The premise is absurd in the best way. It’s part rom-com, and part supernatural screwball comedy. But the writing is really good. The dialogue is sharp, self-aware, and surprisingly funny. And best of all, it doesn’t take itself too seriously, which just makes it more fun.
Sharp Dialogue, Funnier Than It Should Be
The Reaper is actually weirdly endearing in this game. He’s technically an immortal entity whose job is to collect souls, but the man fumbles more than a 13 year old meeting an idol. He’s quite awkward, sarcastic, occasionally flustered, and totally incapable of doing his job when you’re around.
Your character is also equally entertaining, and the dialogue choices on offer let you be bold, anxious, sweet or chaotic, whatever fits your vibe, and the game never punishes you for it.
And while romance is the main attraction, there are quiet hints of a bigger world just outside your little chat window. Small bits of dialogue suggest that Death’s job isn’t so simple, and maybe there’s more going on than just one rogue soul and a grim reaper with boundary issues. It’s not full-blown worldbuilding of course, but it’s enough to make the world feel at least a little bit lived in.
Inclusive, Expressive, and Easy on the Eyes
Mechanically, this is a visual novel, and it sticks to the basics. Most of the game is spent with you choosing various dialogue options, which might sound simple, but the variety means it isn't really boring. Your responses shape the tone and rhythm of the story, and there’s enough branching conversation to make replaying it feel somewhat tempting.
You can also change your character’s appearance and all the usual stuff, but you can also change the way people flirt with you. It doesn’t assume anything about who you are or who you’re into. (It's more fun than it sounds, honest)
You also get little extras thrown in like minigames that you can take part in and play (including a surprise game of Wordle, because why not?) that break up the pacing. Visually, it’s clean and expressive, and the art is warm, polished, and full of character. And the UI feels sleek without it ever getting in the way.
Death 1, My Emotions 0
If you’re into these types of games, and are looking for something funny, heartfelt, and refreshingly different, this one’s an easy yes to recommend. And even if you think you aren't into these games, give it a try. It’s a dating sim that doesn’t rely on cringe clichés, a supernatural story that doesn’t drown you in lore, and a short game that somehow still feels complete.
It's much funnier than it has any right to be, too.
Pros:
- Hilarious, sharp writing
- Great character chemistry
- Inclusive customization options
- Beautiful art and cozy atmosphere
- Strong emotional payoff
Cons:
- Limited locations and movement
- Minimal replay value once you finish
- You’ll probably wish it lasted a bit longer
It's basically a few hours of romantic chaos with some deadpan banter, and surprisingly some wholesome moments with the literal embodiment that is death. What more do you want from a Tuesday night?
And because I am nice, here's a gameplay video from Youtube. (Not my video)
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