Vivid/stasis is a newly released exploration adventure that blends rhythm-based and puzzle elements. Launched on July 5, the indie game is completely free on Steam. Developed by Team Vividstasis and published by Hajimeli and SKY HOUR WORKS, it has quickly climbed to the top of Steam’s “Trending Free” chart.

Players awaken alone on a drifting research station, with no memory and no clear destination. The sterile corridors, flickering lights and cryptic messages hint at a deeper mystery. Scattered throughout the station are clues about an experimental process that transforms emotions into physical spaces – known as “Vivid Chambers.” In this emotionally charged environment, you begin to uncover what happened here and, ultimately, who you really are.

Gameplay in vivid/stasis centers on puzzles and rhythm. To navigate the mysterious environment, players must solve challenges that pulse with a hidden beat. Doors open only in sync with the rhythm, platforms shift to the tempo and every interaction feels tied to an underlying pulse. Rhythm isn’t just a quick-time feature – it’s woven into the fabric of the world. While the game forgoes combat, it builds tension through the careful use of light, sound and movement.

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Reviews: Innovative genre blend with minor technical flaws

Vivid/stasis entered Early Access in March 2023 and has since gathered around 2,200 Steam reviews, 93% of which are positive. Players praise its unique blend of rhythm gameplay, mystery and visual novel elements. The emotionally engaging story and high-quality soundtrack also receive consistent praise. However, criticism has been directed at the confusing user interface, technically rough puzzle segments and the divisive “bumper notes,” which some feel disrupt the game’s flow.

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As a child in the 90s, my Gameboy was my steady companion. After school, the PlayStation was fired up. When I finally got my first PC, I was completely hooked. My passion for gaming has never waned since. For me, writing for Notebookcheck means reporting on topics that are really close to my heart – in addition to gaming, I also like to write about e-mobility, photovoltaics and innovative gadgets. When I’m not sitting at my computer, I’m probably on water rescue duty on the Baltic coast or trying to counteract the downsides of my geek life – namely sitting for long periods – at the local swimming pool.