Rite of Decay
Sense in Self; The testimony of one Nastya V. Yarocz, Rot Physician, on the peculiar happenings at Pavia Manor following the death of honoured Guest Lord Kallistos of Arkhé.
Rite of Decay is a dark fantasy otome visual novel that intertwines romance, mystery, and horror in a plague-ridden world. The game follows Nastya, a physician from an order specifically tasked with dealing with a highly infectious disease called the Rot. Her latest mission takes her to the manor of a nobleman whose guest has mysteriously died—possibly due to the disease, but suspicions of foul play quickly arise. As she delves into the investigation, Nastya finds herself entangled with four enigmatic love interests, each harboring secrets that may be tied to the manor’s dark past.
Key Features & Themes
- Murder Mystery with Romance: Players navigate a gothic, atmospheric story where every character is a suspect, and love may bloom amidst deceit and danger.
- Isolation & Identity: The world is shaped by the consequences of the Rot, where those who survive must hide their faces and are forced into an institution with little purpose beyond resisting reinfection.
- Complex Love Interests:
- Demos – A manipulative, seductive mage with a dangerous edge.
- Kankalin – A cold, aloof alchemic archmage, hiding layers beneath his mask.
- Royce – A quiet, devoted servant bound by an unhealthy loyalty.
- Woden – An idealistic exile who challenges Nastya’s detached worldview.
- Layered Protagonist: Nastya is a bitter, skeptical woman who sees her duty as a chore rather than a noble calling. Her journey explores whether she can open herself to love and human connection.
- Immersive World-Building: The setting is bleak and mysterious, with medieval-inspired city-states, faceless institutions, and a supernatural plague that strips people of their identities.
- Visual & Audio Distinction: The game’s stained-glass art style and gothic UI contrast with feverish, surreal dream sequences that disrupt reality. The haunting soundtrack and unsettling sound design enhance the eerie atmosphere.
Resume
Rite of Decay is a gothic fantasy otome visual novel blending mystery, romance, and psychological horror. Players take on the role of Nastya, a physician investigating a suspicious death in a plague-stricken world, uncovering conspiracies and forming relationships with four morally gray love interests. The game explores isolation, identity, and trust, featuring a rich narrative, immersive world-building, and unique visual storytelling. Its distinct art direction, interactive UI, and deep character writing make it a standout in the otome genre.
Downloads
Gallery
Developers | Skolaztika |
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Publishers | Skolaztika |
Platforms | Linux, macOS, Windows |
Genres | dark fantasy, Josei, Mystery, Otome, Romance |
Website | https://skolaztika.itch.io/rite-of-decay |
Released on | 2025-01-16 |
Content Rating | Death, cannibalism, hanging, homophobia, mention of animal abuse, physical assault and mind control. |
Word Count | 60000 |
Romanceable Characters | 4 |