Explore the Japanese Countryside in The Doll Shop
Fans of story-driven horror games have a new title to watch out for. The Doll Shop, an upcoming hand-drawn visual novel that blends psychological horror with a touch of romance, is set to launch in October 2026.
The game marks the first professional indie project from French comic book artists Cécile Brun and Olivier Pichard, better known as Atelier Sentô. Set in a quiet Japanese village, The Doll Shop features every environment and character hand-drawn on an iPad in a graphic novel-inspired art style. Rather than relying on dark visuals and traditional horror aesthetics, the developers have chosen warm, colorful scenery to create an unsettling contrast as the story unfolds.
The setting draws heavily from the duo’s personal experiences living in rural Japan. While Cécile was studying Japanese at university, the pair spent a year in Niigata, a snowy countryside region known for its peaceful landscapes. During their stay, they created watercolor sketches and took countless photographs, many of which later became the inspiration for the game’s detailed backgrounds and charming village atmosphere.
Beyond its narrative, The Doll Shop will feature multiple activities for players to enjoy. You’ll repair eerie dolls and return them to their rightful owners, explore locations such as a local shrine and a traditional public bath, and even sample every ramen recipe served at the village restaurant.
The game also offers three different endings, with a hidden ending waiting for players who uncover them all, adding extra replay value to the haunting adventure.
With its distinctive hand-drawn visuals and unique mix of horror, romance, and slice-of-life elements, The Doll Shop is shaping up to be one of the more intriguing indie releases arriving this October.