Californium: A Psychedelic Sci-Fi Journey into Identity

9/13/2026, 8:50:09 PM

Release date: 2/17/2016

Tags: #psychedelic #sci-fi #experimental #colorful #point-&-click #surreal #interactive-fiction #exploration

User Reviews

Score: 70%Mostly Positive
Review Count: 412 reviews
Fetched At: 9/13/2026, 8:50:11 PM

Reference prices

Japan

¥ 720 (JPY)

Steam JP

$6.99 (USD)

Steam

Live Store Snapshot

Body text may reflect the state at publication time. For the latest sale, price, and review changes, prioritize the live price panel, review panel, and the Steam store listing.

Japan Price: ¥ 720
Global Price: $6.99
Price in Your Region: ¥ 720Prices as Steam lists them per country. What you are actually charged depends on your Steam account settings.Regional prices checked: 14 Sept 2026
Sale Status: Regular pricing
Price Checked At: 9/13/2026, 8:45:47 PM

Key highlight

Californium is a psychedelic, first-person sci-fi adventure inspired by Philip K. Dick, set in 1967 Berkeley. Players explore the mind of a troubled writer, experiencing hallucinations and questioning reality.

Who this is for

Recommended for players who appreciate the thematic depth of Philip K. Dick and enjoy experimental experiences that blur the lines between reality and hallucination. Its unique art style and narrative are sure to challenge your perception.

Details

Overview

Californium plunges players into a first-person, psychedelic experience that pays homage to the works of sci-fi legend Philip K. Dick. Set in Berkeley in 1967, you step into the shoes of Elvin Green, a science fiction writer grappling with depression, a failing career, and the disorienting effects of a bad acid trip. The game aims to blur the lines between reality and hallucination, challenging your perception as you search for your own identity amidst a world of simulacra.

Highlights

A Mind-Bending Narrative: Explore the fragmented psyche of a writer in crisis, inspired by the themes found in Philip K. Dick's iconic science fiction.
Sensory Overload: Prepare for a visually and audibly surreal journey that distorts reality through powerful hallucinations and a unique aesthetic.
Interactive Exploration: Engage with the environment in a point-and-click style, uncovering clues and navigating the protagonist's troubled mind.

Who It's For

This game is for players who enjoy experimental narratives, surreal art styles, and thought-provoking science fiction. If you're drawn to titles that challenge your perception of reality and explore themes of identity and consciousness, Californium offers a unique, albeit intense, experience.Check the review panel on this page or the Steam listing for the latest user review trend.

Game Info

Developed by Darjeeling, Nova Production, and ARTE France, and published by ARTE France, Californium was released on February 17, 2016. It supports English, French, and German languages and features multi-player capabilities, Steam Achievements, and Steam Family Sharing. The game is available as a paid title and has garnered a 'Mostly Positive' reception from Steam users.