MAGES, the renowned studio behind acclaimed visual novels such as Steins;Gate, in partnership with PQube, has released its latest and darkest original story: Iwakura Aria, now available for Nintendo Switch and PC. The plot places players in the role of Ichiko Kitagawa, a sixteen-year-old struggling to survive, who seemingly stumbles upon the opportunity of a lifetime when she begins working as a maid at the mysterious Iwakura Mansion.

A warm welcome, a room of her own, and the presence of a beautiful heiress she must serve make this new routine feel like an unattainable dream. However, beneath the façade of comfort and elegance lies something far darker, ready to turn Ichiko’s life into a nightmare.

The story leads players to wonder whether the protagonist will remain in such an enigmatic place, attempt to change her own fate, or decide to run away to save her life. Every choice shapes not only the immediate events but also the future she will face 33 years after the main story unfolds.

With nine different endings to unlock, the decision-making system offers multiple narrative paths, encouraging replayability and deepening the player’s connection to the mansion’s mysteries. Exploring each room becomes essential to uncovering the characters’ secrets and understanding the intricate web of events surrounding the heiress Aria.

Among the narrative elements, Ichiko’s sketchbook holds detailed illustrations capturing her interests and emotions, often revealing hidden clues about the mansion’s true nature. These visual discoveries intertwine with the unique atmosphere crafted by Hyakunen’s painterly art style and Nakada Fumi’s creative framing, transforming each scene into an artistic composition.

The building of bonds between the women of the mansion is another central pillar of the story. Friendship, love, and unspoken tensions blend together to sustain a growing suspense, chapter after chapter, until the ending chosen by the player.

Balancing drama, mystery, and impactful revelations, the experience delivers a journey that captivates from beginning to end, inviting players to explore every corner of the Iwakura Mansion to uncover what truly lies within its dark heart.