3D Puzzle Platformer PHi: The Broken Strings Wants Players to Contemplate Life
Indian studio and publisher Kyrel Games recently announced the demo version of their next game PHi: The Broken Strings to be released on March 27, 2025. The full release could be Q4 2026 depending on the success of the studio’s planned Kickstarter campaign commencing in April 2025.
Kyrel Games said in a press release that they believe games should be developed for gamers without being dictated by outside publishers and that a Kickstarter campaign will allow the studio to stay true to their vision.
“By involving the gaming community directly, we can create an experience that resonates with players, free from compromises,” the press release said.
Obvious Plot Twist to Reflect on Life
The game’s protagonist PHi wakes up alone and clueless in an Old Puppet house where a strange but familiar feeling, and a guiding voice, propels him on a journey to uncover secrets and answer questions about his existence.
PHi has all the characteristics of a puppet without strings and now that he’s in charge of his own life, what does this mean? This is the message the studio would like players to contemplate.
“This isn’t just his (PHi’s) story, it’s a chance for players to reflect on life, their own emotions, and the deeper meaning behind it all.”
Similar Games
PHi: The Broken Strings pushes the narrative forward by solving puzzles in a 3D landscape, which often involves moving objects around. Similar games in this genre is Little Nightmares, developed by Tarsier Studios and published by Bandai Namco Entertainment in 2017.
It also bears close resemblance to Once Upon a Puppet which is an upcoming game by studio Flatter Than Earth planned for release by publisher Daedlic Entertainment during spring 2025.