Phoenix Springs, The Mysterious Desert Oasis

Investigate the whereabouts of your missing brother

Odd Community, Odd Place

A Strange Twist To Family Reunions

Calligram Studio’s upcoming neo-noir point-and-click mystery adventure game Phoenix Springs takes you to the hidden desert oasis of the same name, stepping into the shoes of reporter Iris Dormer. Led to Phoenix Springs by news of your brother Leo gone missing, Iris will need to connect leads and clues around her, and gather more information from the local townsfolk as well. Iris’ inventory is not a backpack or a pouch, but instead her mind—your mind map of leads, clues, and signs, like a giant pinboard.

But not all information is critical—some of them might be false leads or red herrings. Discern the proper clues you need for your investigation and solve logical puzzles that are designed to be challenging, while also enhancing the story-rich narrative of the game.

Explore, gather, and solve the mystery of the enigmatic Phoenix Springs, its myths, and what connects it to our brave protagonist.

The game will feature full voice acting, hand-drawn art and animations, a streamlined UI, intricate puzzles, and an immersive neo-noir universe.

Multi-Awarded Even Before Launch

Calligram Studio is the three-person indie game developer team based in the UK and France, working on Phoenix Springs. The studio calls themselves an art collective as that is how they view computer and video games—as art, and Phoenix Springs is their first ever game. Ever since the release of the prologue or demo in 2023, they have garnered over 12 awards and nominations in a number of indie showcases and conventions. Recently, they were able to participate in the Summer Game Fest, in the Future of Play, Women-Led Games, and Day of the Devs showcases.

“Our small team is incredibly excited about releasing Phoenix Springs on September 16th,” said Jigmé Özer, Calligram Studio founder in an interview. “It’s been really heartening to see everyone’s excitement for the game, from events like Day of the Devs, to the media that’s had such kind words for us and of course the community that’s been spreading the word about Phoenix Springs. We can’t wait for you all to get to dive into the mystery we’ve created!”

Why a point-and-click, exactly? Besides of the nostalgia it brings, “Point-and-click games offer a distinct narrative experience, akin to navigating a digital novel where each click reveals a new chapter in the story. The roots of the genre, text adventures, provided a solid foundation for creating immersive narratives, allowing players to actively participate in the unfolding of the plot.” Özer said in an interview with Point ‘N Think.

An Artistic Spin On Classic Point-And-Click Games

One can tell just from the trailer and cover art itself that Phoenix Springs is definitely a work of art, from artists and art enthusiasts, no less. Art inspirations are all over the game, and it’s done beautifully. Their official Twitter (X) notes artists Masayasu Uchida, Josan Gonzales, and Manchen Lo as their main inspirations for the visual style, all of which have bright and punchy colors in their artworks. Phoenix Spring’s main color seems to be a blinding yellow, which is a good contrast to the underlying plot of the game.

Because they’re bringing back point-and-click games with an artistic flair, no wonder Phoenix Springs has easily captured the hearts of many.

Phoenix Springs will be released on PC through Steam on September 17, 2024.