Cardinal Cross

About

Cardinal Cross is a sci-fi visual novel where your choices shape a character named Lana Brice. Set in a gritty cyberpunk universe, the story follows her from scavenger to pivotal player in a brewing galactic conflict. Players pick from three personality traits and navigate romance routes with two men or one woman. Dialogue and decisions drive the narrative toward one of many endings. The game blends ethical dilemmas with personal stakes as Lana grapples with loyalty, rebellion, and survival. Released in 2018 by LarkyLabs, it runs on PC, Mac, and Linux with single-player only. The game stands out for its dense branching paths and character interactions. With over 50 side characters and 70+ visual illustrations, replayability hinges on exploring different relationships and outcomes. Player communities highlight the layered storytelling and morally gray scenarios. While not graphically flashy, the narrative depth and multiple routes keep engagement high. Its focus on choice-driven consequences resonates with visual novel fans seeking branching narratives over action.

Storyline

We are Raiders Divided, autonomous, uninvited Misery is our neighbor Pain, our kin When small-time Raider Scavenger Lana Brice meets her mysterious client, she has a sudden realization: her life just took a very wrong turn in the worst way possible. A storm is brewing... Being forced to join a stranger's fight raises a mess of complex feelings in Lana. Generations of oppression and injustice, the bittersweet bonds of family and the pull of ethics: it’s a brooding volcano that threatens to erupt. Cardinal Cross cannot be stopped... But will Lana’s careless adventure spark a Galactic disaster? Will she be hailed as a hero or reviled as an anarchist?