Byte

Byte is a tactics RPG that adapts Bram Stoker’s Dracula, exploring the novel’s themes of queerness and technology. You play as Jonathan Harker, a young real estate agent from New York City, sent to Detroit, Oregon, in 1990 to help Count Dracula buy a collection of properties in New York. Jonathan’s skill with fax machines, telephones and the internet helped him rise quickly at his firm and earn the assignment, but he grows increasingly weary as he approaches the castle.

The castle

Dracula has equipped his castle with an internet connection, fax lines and solar power to speed up Jonathan’s work. But much of the castle is hidden behind password protection, and Jonathan must explore, speak with its inhabitants and complete work tasks. His friends and fiancé are also drawn to the castle under mysterious circumstances. Dracula shows an interest in some of Jonathan’s closest friends, prompting Jonathan and others to grow suspicious.

Hacking tasks

When Jonathan needs to hack into a computer, the game shifts to grid-based tactics battles. Rather than fighting enemies, you complete tasks such as collecting data, getting through firewalls and installing software.

Story and technology

The story unfolds through visual novel scenes, combining text with in-world and surreal 3D art and full-motion video. Technology is part of both the setting and the presentation, with the game exploring early digital computer technology. It also revisits the queer identity of Dracula through modern perspectives on gender, sexuality and desire.