How do you explore love and identity when they don’t conform to traditional expectations? Pivot of Hearts, an upcoming visual novel set in Brazil’s São Paulo, invites players to explore the complexities of relationships through the lens of a Taiwanese-Brazilian protagonist.
Pivot of Hearts updated demo is now available on Steam, offering players a glimpse into the game’s immersive world. With its full release set for later this year, it’s a perfect opportunity to experience Pivot of Hearts ahead of its launch.
About Pivot of Hearts
A Story of Representation and Inclusion
Pivot of Hearts follows the journey of a Taiwanese-Brazilian game developer navigating relationships and self-discovery in modern-day São Paulo. After a long period of isolation, Wén Xiàn starts finding chances to open his heart again: he suddenly reconnects with Etsuko, someone important from his past, and forms an unexpected bond with a new colleague, Cauã. These encounters set off the protagonist on a journey to question all his old notions of love. Through its four chapters, five endings, and over 100,000 words, the game delves into the diversity of relationship structures, sexual orientation, gender identity, ethnicity, and body types, offering an authentic and rarely seen narrative in gaming.
Unique Gameplay and Cultural Depth
Blending traditional visual novel storytelling with interactive tarot-inspired mechanics, Pivot of Hearts offers players a rich and engaging experience. The game’s design celebrates São Paulo’s vibrant culture, featuring fictional metal bands, nostalgic anime/game references, and richly detailed urban environments.
Accessibility and Player Experience
Committed to ensuring an inclusive experience, Pivot of Hearts incorporates accessibility-focused design and settings, making the game welcoming to a broad audience, regardless of background or gaming expertise. The game resonates with those seeking stories of growth, love, and identity, whether they are gamers, anime enthusiasts, or fans of narrative-driven media.
About Dragonroll Studio
Dragonroll Studio is a São Paulo-based indie game developer dedicated to making cute but subversive games! The team met in their college years, formed the studio in 2019, and created Pivot of Hearts as their first commercial game. Their dedication to storytelling and inclusivity has earned them accolades, including Best Narrative at SBGames 2022 and a Diversity nomination at BIG Festival, held during Gamescom Latam, 2024.
