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Secret Little Haven

Mac, PC (Microsoft Windows), Linux • 2018

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Quick resume

An adventure game about old computers, community, creativity, fandom, gender, and the internet. Alex Cole is a teenage trans girl in 1999 who has yet to figure herself out. She spends much of her free time on the internet, browsing a fan forum for her favorite magical girl show, and chatting with her friends.

Global score

98/100

Genres

Adventure, Indie, Visual Novel

Pros

  • Deeply emotional and relatable narrative
  • Authentic representation of trans experience
  • Nostalgic 1999 internet aesthetic
  • Strong community and friendship themes
  • Immersive and creative storytelling format

Cons

  • Technical bugs and ui clunkiness
  • Some unintuitive puzzle mechanics
  • Achievements are broken or incomplete
  • Short playtime
  • Ending considered overly optimistic by some

Motivations

  • Autonomy
    4

    "Players direct Alex's conversations and choices in a nonlinear narrative, exploring identity and relationships with personal freedom."

  • Competence
    2

    "The game involves some puzzle-solving and navigation of an old computer OS, requiring some skill but mostly narrative engagement."

  • Competition
    -5

    "The game focuses entirely on personal story and self-discovery without any competitive elements."

  • Continuation
    3

    "Players report emotional attachment and desire to replay, though the game is relatively short and narrative-focused."

  • Cooperation
    3

    "The story centers on online friendships and support networks, emphasizing social connection and collaboration."

  • Creativity
    3

    "Players engage in fanfiction writing and roleplaying within the game, expressing creativity in character and story."

  • Domination
    -5

    "Interactions emphasize mutual respect and shared experiences rather than control or superiority."

  • Escapism
    5

    "The game provides emotional refuge and immersion into a nostalgic internet era, helping players process real-life identity issues."

  • Expectation
    -5

    "Players engage voluntarily out of personal desire and intrinsic interest in the story and themes."

  • Experimenting
    3

    "Players explore different dialogue choices and puzzle solutions, experimenting with narrative outcomes."

  • Exploration
    3

    "Players explore a simulated 1999 computer OS and online communities, discovering hidden content and story elements."

  • Expression
    4

    "The game encourages self-expression through fanfiction, roleplay, and character interactions reflecting identity."

  • Fantasy
    2

    "While grounded in realistic themes, the game includes imaginative elements like magical girl fandom and roleplay."

  • Fellowship
    5

    "Strong emphasis on community, friendship, and shared identity within online spaces and fandoms."

  • Growth
    5

    "Focus on personal development, self-discovery, and emotional growth throughout the narrative."

  • Health
    -5

    "The game is sedentary and narrative-driven, with no physical activity or health-related gameplay."

  • Idle
    -3

    "Requires focused attention on story and puzzles; not designed for background or casual play."

  • Intimacy
    4

    "Deep emotional connections and vulnerability are central, fostering close relationships and empathy."

  • Leadership
    -3

    "Players participate in supportive social roles rather than leading or managing others."

  • Progression
    2

    "Narrative progression through story milestones and unlocking new conversations rather than item collection."

  • Relaxation
    2

    "While emotionally intense, the game offers catharsis and moments of calm through nostalgic exploration."

  • Sensation
    3

    "Engages players with retro visuals, music, and immersive UI design evoking strong sensory nostalgia."

  • Status
    -5

    "The game does not focus on social recognition or popularity; it centers on personal experience."

  • Story
    5

    "Narrative immersion is the core of the game, with rich character development and emotional storytelling."

  • Strategy
    1

    "Some puzzle-solving and planning are required, but the focus is primarily on narrative choices."

  • Thrill
    1

    "Emotional tension and suspense arise from story events, though gameplay risk is minimal."

  • Value
    4

    "Players find strong emotional and personal value, often replaying and recommending despite minor bugs."

  • Violence
    -5

    "The game avoids violence, focusing instead on constructive social and emotional interactions."

  • Survival
    1

    "Themes of overcoming emotional adversity exist, but gameplay does not involve survival mechanics."

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    Last update: 06/03/2026