Yume Nikki

Yume Nikki is a freeware adventure game developed by Japanese creator "KIKIYAMA".

Players take on the role of a girl named Madotsuki, venturing through her dream worlds. While exploring these surreal environments, players can collect 24 unique "effects" that alter her appearance.

"Possessing a dark atmosphere, this game allows you to explore the world inside a dream (thus its setting). There is no particular story or purpose. It is simply an exploring game." — Translation of KIKIYAMA

While its creator, KIKIYAMA, claims it is "simply an exploring game" consisting of "no particular story or purpose", dedicated fans deny this.

Yume Nikki has led to a strongly dedicated fan base, resulting in countless fan theories and content such as video essays, forum discussions, and even manga that analyze the game thoroughly in search for a deeper meaning of the game and a hidden story.

The game has also resulted in several fan games, such as its fan-made sequel Yume 2kki, "Yume Nikki: Dream Diary" (a reimagining of the original game under supervision of KIKIYAMA), and many more to come.

Beyond fan games, Yume Nikki has also inspired many other indie games that follow it. These include several well-known titles such as Omori, Undertale, and Doki Doki Literature Club. Similarly to Yume Nikki, these games feature deep storytelling, surrealism, and player-driven exploration.