Wednesday, February 19, 2025

Yamaguchi-Based Developer Unveils ‘CLASS 3, THIRD GRADE,’ A Nostalgic Escape Adventure Game

A new indie game is about to tap into childhood memories with a mix of mystery and nostalgia. Yamaguchi City-based developer Jacob Honda has announced CLASS 3, THIRD GRADE, a first-person escape adventure game set to launch on Steam in March. Priced at $4.99 (680 yen), the game will support both English and Japanese, though a precise release date has yet to be revealed.

A Game for the ‘Ice Age Generation’

Makoto Nishizaki, the development team leader, describes the game as a tribute to a generation that grew up in uncertain times. In a press release, he spoke about how CLASS 3, THIRD GRADE aims to resonate with those who feel a “lead weight in their stomach” at the mention of an “end-of-day meeting.” The game isn’t just about escaping a virtual room—it’s about stepping back into a world that many players may recognize from their childhood, a mix of warmth and quiet unease.

Nishizaki also alluded to the small yet unforgettable mysteries of childhood, like a missing classroom pet after summer break. These seemingly trivial events left lasting impressions, shaping how children saw the world. CLASS 3, THIRD GRADE aims to capture that unique blend of innocence and unease.

CLASS 3 THIRD GRADE Steam screenshot

A Childhood Dream That Won’t Let Go

The game’s story follows an unnamed protagonist—referred to simply as “I”—who suddenly begins to dream of their childhood. At first, it’s nothing more than fleeting memories, hazy and indistinct. But soon, the dreams become clearer, pulling them into a version of their elementary school days where time feels frozen.

One morning, during an ordinary commute, something shifts. Without warning, “I” finds themselves back in their childhood bedroom, a space they haven’t seen in decades. But this isn’t just a dream—it feels real. The boundaries between past and present begin to blur, and the protagonist is left with one pressing question: How do they get back?

The deeper “I” explores, the more memories come to life. Some are comforting, others unsettling. Each puzzle, each clue brings them closer to the truth about their past—and forces them to confront emotions they had long buried.

Exploring the Past, One Puzzle at a Time

At its core, CLASS 3, THIRD GRADE is a 3D escape adventure. Players will navigate a carefully recreated 1980s childhood bedroom, solving puzzles and uncovering clues that help them return to reality. But this isn’t just about cracking codes and collecting items—the choices players make will influence the story’s direction.

  • Multiple Endings – The truth isn’t set in stone. Different choices will lead to different outcomes, making each playthrough a unique experience.
  • A World Frozen in Time – The developers have painstakingly recreated the small details of a 1980s childhood, from school supplies to familiar household objects.
  • A Personal Journey – While the story follows one character, the themes of nostalgia, regret, and self-discovery are universal. Players may find pieces of their own childhood reflected in the game.

An Indie Project Steeped in Nostalgia

Jacob Honda, the indie studio behind the game, has focused on delivering an experience that feels deeply personal. Rather than relying on over-the-top horror or fast-paced action, CLASS 3, THIRD GRADE leans into the emotional weight of childhood memories.

For players who grew up in the late 20th century, the game promises an eerily familiar setting. The rooms are filled with old toys, worn-out textbooks, and school desks covered in doodles. Even the lighting mimics the soft glow of an old classroom on a cloudy day.

This approach mirrors a growing trend in indie games—titles that prioritize mood and storytelling over spectacle. By tapping into the emotional pull of nostalgia, CLASS 3, THIRD GRADE aims to be more than just an escape game. It’s a reflection on time, memory, and the things we carry with us long after childhood ends.

A Quiet Yet Intriguing Addition to the Indie Scene

While the game doesn’t have the hype of a major studio release, it’s already catching attention for its unique premise. Players drawn to narrative-driven experiences, escape room mechanics, or nostalgic settings may find something special in CLASS 3, THIRD GRADE.

With a March release planned, more details—including a specific launch date—are likely to emerge in the coming weeks. Until then, the official trailer and first set of screenshots offer a glimpse into the game’s melancholic yet intriguing world.

Harper Jones
Harper Jones
Harper is an experienced content writer specializing in technology with expertise in simplifying complex technical concepts into easily understandable language. He has written for prestigious publications and online platforms, providing expert analysis on the latest technology trends, making his writing popular amongst readers.

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here

Share post: