This World Unknown

About

This World Unknown is a story-driven visual novel set in a medieval fantasy world. You play as Rhea, a village nurse whose quiet life unravels when a wounded soldier returns home changed and a patient falls ill with an unexplained condition. Choices shape relationships with a cast of soldiers, villagers, and political figures as you uncover wartime secrets and personal struggles. Dialogue and branching paths determine how Rhea responds to moral dilemmas, with romance elements woven into the central mystery. Developed by Ebi-Hime and published by Sekai Project, the game launched in 2016 and runs on PC, Mac, and Linux. Player communities note its layered storytelling and character development, with some highlighting over 20 distinct endings tied to decision-making. The blend of political intrigue and intimate drama sets it apart in the otome genre, though its slower pacing may not suit action-focused players.

Storyline

Peace is scarce in the country of Aslande, and it has been at war with the neighbouring country of Eressia for centuries. When one battle ends, another inevitably begins, either months or years later. To Rhea, however, war is a distant concept; something she has heard about, but never witnessed. Born in a small, secluded village, Rhea occupies her life with more mundane concerns: her job at the local hospital, her playful bickering with her friend Asa, and her prayers for a successful harvest come autumn. However, when Rhea's childhood friend, Luca, returns home to the village after fighting in one of Aslande's many wars, Rhea is suddenly faced with a problem. Why is Luca suddenly so cold, so distant? What did he see out on the battlefield, and how did it change him? At the same time, new worries plague Rhea, as one of the patients at the hospital is suffering from a rather perplexing illness - and a failure to cure him could have some unpleasant outcomes...