The Korean version of the gothic psychological thriller visual novel 『Luce Spenta』, developed by Italian solo indie developer Fabrizio Franco, was officially released on January 23rd.
Can you judge the soul?
“Luce Spenta” is a visual novel with a unique setting where players become “Soul Judges” who determine the fate of five souls. Uncovering the pasts of souls on the brink of life and death, and rendering a final judgment between their sins and salvation forms the core of the game’s compelling narrative.
The game’s most notable feature is its overwhelming narrative volume. With over 600,000 words of text, it’s equivalent to five or six volumes of a typical novel, a scale rarely seen even in the recent indie game scene. Furthermore, with over 25 different endings and a hidden “true ending,” players’ choices can lead to completely different outcomes.
The fourth wall breaks down with meta directing
“Luce Spenta” goes beyond simple choice-based storytelling. Through meta-thematic presentations and fourth-wall-breaking plot developments, the game draws players into the narrative. Characters recognizing the player’s presence, or incorporating the game’s systems into the narrative, create new tension and surprises with each playthrough.
This structure is optimized for streaming and review content. Indeed, word of mouth is spreading among overseas streamers and reviewers, with “unexpected plot twists” and “direction that stimulates psychological anxiety.”
Gothic aesthetics that shine in the dark
The game’s art direction is consistent with a sophisticated, dark, gothic style. Somber colors, detailed character designs, and atmospheric sound design combine to create a uniquely immersive experience. The game’s title, “Luce Spenta,” means “extinguished light” in Italian, symbolically expressing the tension between despair and hope that permeates the entire game.
Entering Korea amidst global acclaim
Since its worldwide release on Steam on October 24, 2025, “Luce Spenta” has consistently received positive reviews. Overseas gaming media NeverMoreNiche gave the game a 4.5 out of 5, Paraguayan gaming media 20xxNoticias gave it a 4.2, and The Drastik Measure gave it an 8.4 out of 10, acknowledging its artistic value.
Notably, the game has maintained a 100% positive Steam user rating even three months after its release, an unusual achievement for a small indie game. Gamers cited “unexpected twists,” “deep character portrayals,” and “the weight of choice” as key strengths.
A masterpiece created by the dedication of a single developer
Developer Fabrizio Franco single-handedly oversaw every aspect of the game, from planning and scenario development to programming and art direction. From writing a massive 600,000-word script to designing over 25 different endings and implementing the gothic visuals, Franco overcame a nearly impossible workload for a solo developer.
This Korean version release is interpreted as a first step toward expanding into the Asian market, and as a strategic choice that takes into account the high level of understanding of visual novels and openness to meta direction among Korean indie game fans.
Perfect for users who love dark fantasy and psychological thrillers.
“Luce Spenta” is perfect for gamers who enjoy unexpected meta presentations like “DDLC (Doki Doki Literature Club)” or “Undertale”, or who prefer philosophical and psychological narratives like the “Zero Escape” series.
Currently, 『Luce Spenta』 is available for purchase on Steam in multiple languages, including Korean. More information can be found on the Steam store page.
Steam Page:
https://store.steampowered.com/app/4015120/Luce_Spenta/
