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About HOW WE KNOW WE'RE ALIVE
HOW WE KNOW WE'RE ALIVE is an award‑winning, hour‑long point‑and‑click narrative mystery set in the bible‑belt town of Härunga, Sweden. Players follow Sara, an aspiring writer returning after a decade to investigate her estranged friend’s tragic fate. The game’s melancholy tone is reinforced by short, rainy northern days and richly animated environments that feel frozen in time.
01 / THE GUIDE
Narrative Structure
The story unfolds as a linear mystery, with each dialogue choice subtly shaping hidden outcomes. Though the overall plot remains fixed, the wording you select can alter how characters react, adding layers of ambiguity.
The game’s hour‑long length keeps the pacing tight, ensuring each scene contributes to the central question of truth versus perception.
- Listen for repeated phrases; they often hint at underlying secrets.
- Take notes on character statements to track contradictions.
02 / THE GUIDE
Protagonist – Sara
Sara is presented as an aspiring writer who left Härunga ten years ago. Her return drives the investigation, giving players a personal stake in uncovering the past.
Her background as a writer influences the dialogue focus, encouraging players to consider the weight of words and memory.
- Reflect on Sara’s motivations when choosing responses.
- Consider how her writer’s perspective might bias her observations.
03 / THE GUIDE
Setting & Atmosphere
Härunga is depicted as a small industrial town in Sweden’s mid‑north, where rain is constant and daylight fades quickly. The environment feels deliberately stagnant, reinforcing the melancholy mood.
Animated details—such as dripping gutters and dim streetlights—enhance immersion without requiring additional gameplay systems.
- Observe background animations; they often foreshadow narrative beats.
- Use the setting’s weather cues to gauge the story’s emotional tone.
04 / THE GUIDE
Dialogue Impact
Player choices in conversation are described as influencing hidden aspects of the story. While the main events stay consistent, subtle shifts can change character perception and reveal alternate truths.
The game emphasizes that not everything is as it seems, encouraging careful reading of each line.
- Re‑read key dialogue after major revelations to spot new meanings.
- Test contrasting responses in similar scenes to see hidden effects.
05 / THE GUIDE
Platform Support
The title is available for Windows and macOS, listed for both operating systems. No Linux version is listed.
It supports single‑player mode and can be shared via Family Sharing, allowing multiple accounts to access the same purchase.
- Check your platform’s system requirements before installing.
- Use Family Sharing to let a household member try the game without extra cost.
COMMUNITY
Player discussion