Only A Dream

Only A Dream is a story-driven game about John Simmons, who wakes in a strange network of tunnels and searches for a way out. You explore the tunnels, read notes left by your missing father, Frank Simmons, and try to understand the strange phenomenon behind the place.

John's story

The story begins in 1990. Three years earlier, John’s parents divorced after his mother was caught cheating. She left John and his father, Frank, for her lover, and Frank fell into depression. A month later, Frank disappeared, leaving John alone. John worked to renovate the apartment his father left him and found a stable job, believing he had turned his life around.

One night, at around 3 AM, John wakes unusually early. He goes back to sleep, then wakes in an unknown cave-like place, where he finds notes from his missing father. The letters contain hints about the tunnels and can help you find your way through them.

Explore the tunnels

You walk through the tunnels in search of an exit, using a flashlight whose batteries may not last. The game saves whenever you enter a camp. You can sprint, though your stamina is limited, and crouch to pass through small, tight spaces. Crouching also helps you relax and bring your heartbeat under control.

Monitor your heartbeat

A sensor displays your BPM. You can use this reading to guide you, but if your heartbeat goes over 120, you suffer a heart attack.