**Springs, Eternal: A New Narrative Journey from Fullbright**

Fullbright, the studio known for its critically acclaimed narrative-driven games like *Gone Home* and *Tacoma*, has unveiled its latest project at the PC Gaming Show: *Springs, Eternal*. This new title promises to expand on the studio’s storytelling prowess, featuring a unique setting in a hot spring and a visual style reminiscent of low-polygon graphics, evoking a nostalgic feel without fully leaning into a PS1 aesthetic.

### A Narrative-Driven Experience

*Springs, Eternal* distinguishes itself by introducing branching dialogue paths, a first for Fullbright. Players can engage in conversations with a diverse cast of characters—over a dozen individuals populate this intimate setting. The game’s interactions suggest a focus on relationship dynamics, as players navigate dialogues with various characters, including an individual who may or may not be the player’s spouse, and an assortment of eccentric figures, including elderly men immersed in the relaxing atmosphere of the hot spring.

The narrative design indicates a structure that rewards exploration and choice, allowing players to unlock new conversation threads as they traverse the story. Flashbacks are integrated into the gameplay, contributing to the development of character backstories and their evolving relationship over time. This mechanic aims to “create a portrait of two people, their life together, and who they’ll become,” hinting at a deep emotional exploration that players can engage with throughout the experience.

### Development Background

Currently helmed by founder Steve Gaynor, Fullbright operates primarily as a solo development studio. This transition follows significant changes within the company, including Gaynor stepping down from his role as creative lead on the unreleased *Open Roads* project in 2021 amid allegations of fostering a toxic workplace culture. Reports indicated that a significant turnover of staff had occurred during that period, particularly affecting women within the studio. With *Springs, Eternal* being developed in this new format, it will be interesting to see how the game’s intimate themes are received given the studio’s recent history.

### A Shift in Tone

Compared to Fullbright’s previous titles, which often explored complex and sometimes darker themes, *Springs, Eternal* offers a different ambiance. Set in the serene and communal environment of a hot spring, the choice of setting reflects a shift toward a more personal and introspective narrative. Fullbright’s latest project follows their offbeat title *Toilet Spiders*, marking a notable transition in their creative direction.

### Conclusion

*Springs, Eternal* presents an intriguing addition to Fullbright’s portfolio, showcasing their commitment to narrative depth while experimenting with new gameplay mechanics. As fans of the studio eagerly await its release, the combination of branching dialogues and character exploration in a peaceful hot spring setting could carve out a unique space in the realm of interactive storytelling.