SQOOL GAME AWARD 2024 WINTER Grand Prize "Midnight Ramen"
A narrative adventure game set at a midnight ramen stall, where the story unfolds through conversations between staff and customers. Players take on the role of "Homura," a trainee at a ramen shop that only operates at night, listening to the worries of customers and interacting with them.
Game Features
Every night, various customers visit the stall. Basically, it's a text-based game where you progress the story by listening to customers' stories, but you also need to handle their orders as they come in.
When an order comes in, it's time to start making ramen. According to the customer's order, you add toppings and adjust the noodle boiling time. The controls are simple but surprisingly authentic. There is no time limit for making ramen, and you can check the recipe at any time, so you can work at your own pace.
About the Story
One thing that cannot be overlooked when talking about this game is its "theme." While making ramen and listening to customers' worries, you will find that many of their concerns involve very heavy themes such as "death" and "farewell."
Why is the stall only open at midnight? Why is the protagonist a trainee? Why do customers come to this shop? As various mysteries are gradually revealed, players will become more involved in their stories.
Please pay attention to the decisions of all the characters, including the customers, the owner, and the protagonist "Homura," as well as the conclusion of the story. When you understand the theme of this game, you will find yourself loving them, sometimes feeling heartache, and being deeply moved.
