We Love It's Guide to…
In a snowbound Soviet closed city, outcast Asya searches for missing classmate Ira and prepares a radio message to the universe.
Released 10 Nov 2025
Search for Missing Ira
Read Asya's Inner Monologue
Send a Radio Signal
USSR, 1986. A girl goes missing in the closed city of Vorkuta-5, yet not a soul seems to be concerned. Uncover the mystery behind her disappearance and transmit your signal to the universe.
Developed by Ferry // Nopanamaman · Published by Ferry // Nopanamaman
In 1986, in the closed city of Vorkuta-5, school outcast Asya Shubina is the only person who seems concerned when classmate Ira Grachevskaya goes missing. Asya sets out to learn what happened while trying to make sense of her place in the town and the world around her.
This linear visual novel unfolds through dialogue and Asya’s first-person thoughts. Players follow her search and her everyday encounters with classmates including Marina and Vadim, as the quiet, snowy town gives way to unsettling events.
The story develops through reading, with no choices or branching routes and a predetermined ending. Its mystery blends coming-of-age drama with psychological horror, science fiction, and philosophical questions, while Asya works toward sending a radio signal to the universe.
Many reviewers praise the emotionally affecting writing, especially Asya’s introspective voice and the way her experiences invite personal reflection. They also often highlight the characters, distinctive snowy atmosphere, art, and music. Some found the philosophical story difficult to follow, or felt its later science-fiction revelations arrived abruptly after a slow opening.
USSR, 1986. When Ira Grachevskaya goes missing in the closed city of Vorkuta-5, not a soul seems to be concerned – except for the quiet outcast Asya Shubina, that is. Uncover the mystery behind Ira’s disappearance, transmit your radio signal to the universe and learn why a bird flies past the window.
Meet the cast.
A problem child and a truant, Ira doesn't have the best reputation. Her standoffish demeanor makes her difficult to talk to, especially for someone as meek as you. There is a rumour she's been meeting with an older man.
Marina's carefree personality makes her quite popular among her classmates. Adults don't seem to like her very much, probably due to poor grades. Despite the girl's outgoing nature, her worldview is rather cynical.
A boy with an unpleasant sense of humour. Likes picking on people weaker than him, namely you. His family has been a little out of it the past few weeks.
You. Not worth writing about.
Z.A.T.O. is a linear visual novel with roughly 7-8 hours of playtime. There are no choices. The ending is predetermined. Sit back and enjoy your time in a town that doesn't exist.
DISCLAIMER: the game contains strong language, loud noises and flickering images.
| Platforms | Windows, macOS, Linux |
|---|---|
| Age ratings |
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| Controller support | PlayStation, Xbox |
| Controller required | No |
| DLC / extras | 1 listed on Steam |
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