A new indie game from Yamaguchi City-based developer Jacob Honda is set to explore the bittersweet feelings of childhood nostalgia. Titled CLASS 3, THIRD GRADE, this first-person escape adventure game will launch on Steam in March. It aims to blend mystery with familiar memories for a unique emotional experience. The game will be priced at $4.99 (680 yen) and will support both English and Japanese languages.
A Game for the ‘Ice Age Generation’
Development team leader Makoto Nishizaki explained that the game is a tribute to a generation that grew up during uncertain times. He hopes it resonates with those who feel a sense of dread at the memory of an “end-of-day meeting” from their school days.
CLASS 3, THIRD GRADE is designed to capture the blend of innocence and quiet unease that defines many childhoods. The game isn’t just about escaping a room; it’s about confronting the small, unforgettable mysteries from the past, like a classroom pet that disappears over a summer break. These moments, Nishizaki suggests, were formative experiences for many.
Trapped Between Past and Present
The story follows a protagonist, referred to only as “I,” who is suddenly overwhelmed by vivid dreams of their childhood. These dreams become so real that one day, during a normal commute, the character finds themself transported back to their childhood bedroom, a place they haven’t seen in decades.
This experience is not a dream. The line between memory and reality blurs, leaving the protagonist with a single goal: to find a way back to their adult life. As they explore the meticulously recreated room, they must solve puzzles that unlock memories, forcing them to face emotions they had long since buried.
Exploring the Past Through Puzzles
At its heart, CLASS 3, THIRD GRADE is a 3D escape adventure. Players will interact with a detailed 1980s environment, solving puzzles and uncovering clues to progress. However, the game emphasizes narrative and player choice, which will directly impact how the story unfolds.
Key features of the game include:
- Multiple Endings: The choices players make will lead to different outcomes, encouraging multiple playthroughs to uncover the full story.
- A World Frozen in Time: The developers have focused on recreating the small details of a 1980s childhood, from old school supplies to familiar household items.
- A Personal Journey: While the story is specific, its themes of nostalgia, regret, and self-discovery are universal.
Here is a quick overview of the game’s details.
| Game Title | CLASS 3, THIRD GRADE |
| Developer | Jacob Honda |
| Genre | Escape Adventure |
| Platform | Steam |
| Release | March (Date TBA) |
| Price | $4.99 / 680 yen |
An Indie Project Focused on Emotion
Indie studio Jacob Honda has prioritized mood and storytelling over high-octane action. The game leans into the emotional weight of memory, creating an experience that feels deeply personal and reflective. The environment is filled with nostalgic items like worn-out textbooks and desks covered in doodles, all designed to evoke a powerful sense of familiarity.
This approach aligns with a growing trend in the indie scene, where games focus on creating a strong atmosphere and telling a compelling story. CLASS 3, THIRD GRADE is already gaining attention for its unique premise and is poised to be an intriguing addition for fans of narrative-driven games and escape room puzzles.
While a specific release date in March has not yet been announced, an official trailer and screenshots are available for players who want a sneak peek into its melancholic world.
