Loading critic reviews...
Deals
Finding deals...
Live Streams
Finding live streams...
About Backseat
Backseat is a short visual novel developed by indie creator helen. Set in a cozy road trip scenario, you play as someone who wakes up in the backseat of a car with a friendly driver. The story focuses on quiet, slice-of-life interactions as you travel through a dreamlike setting. Released on December 24, 2025, it’s browser-based and designed for single-player sessions. The game prioritizes gentle storytelling over action, with a runtime of around 2-3 hours. It’s best described as a low-key, introspective experience that leans into calmness and curiosity about the journey ahead.
Gameplay
The core loop revolves around dialogue choices and scene transitions. Each decision impacts how the driver (a character with their own quirks) responds, shaping the tone of the trip. You’ll spend most of your time reading narrative snippets, selecting options, and watching animated cutscenes of the car’s surroundings. The pace is deliberately slow, with no combat or time pressure. Controls are click-based, and the interface is minimal. A typical session might involve deciding where to stop for snacks, what music to play, or how to handle minor road trip mishaps. The game’s charm lies in its mundane yet thoughtful interactions, making even small exchanges feel meaningful.
What Players Think
Backseat holds a 4.7/5 rating on PlayPile, with 78% of players completing it. The average playthrough lasts 2.3 hours, and 92% of completers finish it in one sitting. Community moods are split between “soothing” (68%) and “quirky” (29%), though some call it “overly simplistic.” Achievements like “Take the Scenic Route” and “Choose the Loud Playlist” hint at optional branching paths. Critic reviews praise the “relaxing atmosphere” but note “limited narrative depth.” One user wrote, “Best 2 hours I’ve spent this year,” while another said, “Charming but forgettable.” The game’s low price point ($7.99) keeps it accessible, though replay value is limited.
PlayPile's Take
Backseat is a quick, calming pick for fans of slow-burn visual novels. The price is fair for the content, and the lack of combat or complexity means it won’t wear out its welcome. While it doesn’t deliver long-term replayability, the 2.5-hour runtime feels satisfyingly complete. It’s ideal for players seeking a low-effort story with gentle, character-driven moments. The 4.7 rating reflects its strengths in mood and accessibility, though the narrative’s simplicity might leave some wanting more. Worth a playthrough if you enjoy cozy, short-form stories.
Game Modes
Single player
Achievements
Loading achievements...
Similar Games
Finding similar games...
Buzzing on Bluesky
Checking Bluesky...