There Will Be a Light

Age Warning: 18+

This game contains mature themes and content that may not be suitable for younger audiences. Players will encounter depictions of violence, psychological distress, mental health struggles, trauma, and other emotionally intense subjects.

Viewer discretion is advised. If you are sensitive to these topics, please consider whether this experience is appropriate for you.

Play Act I in your browser. Requires a PC, keyboard, and mouse.

There Will Be a Light is an atmospheric RPG about navigating a world swallowed by darkness - and the anxiety, anger, fear, and helplessness that come with it.

You play a man searching for a way to ascend to a higher existence. The world is rich with lore and haunted by dangerous enemies. Light is scarce. Progress depends on environmental awareness, careful planning, and crafting specialized light sources to push back the dark.

A love letter to Ultima, classic JRPGs like Dragon Quest and Etrian Odyssey, and to one developer’s ongoing effort to face his own anxieties through game design.

What you can play right now

• Act I is playable in your browser on this page.
• The project is in active development — feedback and suggestions are welcome

Development status

This page will grow as Act I and later acts are built. Follow Doing the Work on itch.io for updates, or check the devlog below.

Credits

Music purchased from Humble Bundle and composed by Joel Steudler. Support his work at patreon.com/joelsteudler.