Faro

Faro

matt! matt! December 31, 2026
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About Faro

Faro is a narrative-driven visual novel developed by matt! and released in 2026 for PC, Linux, and Mac. Set on a desolate, sunless planet, the game follows a group of survivors navigating a harsh, resource-scarce environment. Players make dialogue-driven choices that shape relationships and outcomes, with a focus on survival and moral dilemmas. The story prioritizes character interactions and bleak atmosphere over action, blending static scenes with minimal animation. It’s a slow-burn experience for those who prefer dialogue over gameplay, with branching paths and multiple endings.

Gameplay

Faro unfolds through text-heavy scenes where players select dialogue options to guide interactions. Each decision impacts trust, alliances, and survival outcomes. Resource management is simplified to occasional prompts, like rationing food or deciding who to help, while the core loop revolves around reading dialogue and reacting. The game lacks traditional combat or exploration; instead, it leans into tense conversations and ethical trade-offs. Sessions typically involve managing a small group of characters, each with distinct motivations and backstories. Controls are basic, relying on mouse clicks or keyboard navigation. The single-player mode offers no multiplayer or co-op elements.

What Players Think

Faro holds a 4.2/5 rating from 15,000 PlayPile users, with 72% completion rate and 8-hour average playtime. Community moods skew curious (65%), somber (58%), and reflective (52%). Critics praise its “hauntingly beautiful dialogue” (8.5/10) and “choices that carry real weight.” Users highlight the game’s “emotional impact” and “unforgiving worldbuilding.” Completionists note 35 achievements, including rare ones like “Save Everyone” (unlocked by 4% of players). While 30% of players call it “too slow,” 60% recommend it for its story depth.

PlayPile's Take

Faro is worth playing if you prioritize narrative over mechanics and enjoy bleak, character-focused tales. At $19.99, it’s a low-cost experiment in dialogue-driven survival. The 35 achievements add replay value, but most players finish it in one go. Skip if you want fast pacing or interactive world-building. For fans of quiet, existential stories, Faro’s 8-hour runtime and 4.2 rating make it a niche but memorable pick.

Game Modes

Single player

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