Overview
A Personal Winter is a short visual novel from developer and publisher brutal_vap, released on Steam on November 4, 2026. It tells the story of a boy who, on a snowy night, heads to an abandoned movie theater with his senpai, Ryo.
Together, they set fire to their school—not out of desperation, but for the sheer thrill of it. The game unfolds through a combination of visuals, music, and dialogue, creating a cinematic and contemplative atmosphere.
Highlights
- A compact narrative experience: The game is designed to be completed in approximately 1–2 hours, making it an ideal evening-length story.
- Hand-drawn artistry: Around 35 hand-drawn illustrations bring the winter city and the abandoned theater to life, with a style that suits the game's dark, philosophical tone.
- Original soundtrack: The music is composed specifically for the game, enhancing the mood of each scene.
Who It's For
If you enjoy visual novels that prioritize atmosphere and character over action, A Personal Winter is likely to resonate with you. The game touches on mature themes such as depression, burns, and blood, so it's best suited for players who appreciate stories that explore darker psychological territory.
The short playtime also makes it a good choice for those who want a complete narrative experience in a single sitting.
Game Info
- Genre: Indie, Visual Novel
- Developer/Publisher: brutal_vap
- Release Date: November 4, 2026
- Platform: Steam (PC)
- Language: Japanese
- Modes: Single-player
- Content Notes: Depictions of depression, burns, and blood
