Away from Home

Released

Release Date: December 20, 2025

RPG, 2D, Rhythm, Indie Games, jRPG, Urban Fantasy, Singleplayer

A pixel-art RPG with additional mechanics taken from rhythm games, Away From Home is largely focused on combat. You have to display a good sense of rhythm to score points and launch special attacks. The game is also filled with optional activities, similar in concept to those from the Yakuza series.

7.2

Steam

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Ratings

 Videos: 1 

Images: 6 

Gameplay
Graphics and audio

Classic jRPGs from the 16-bit era have seen a number of imitators over the years. Among this group is Away from Home, a representative of the genre enriched with elements borrowed from rhythm games. This game was developed by independent developer Cameron Smith-Randick, who goes by the pseudonym Squishy, and was inspired by titles such as Earthbound, Mother 3, and Yakuza 0.

Gameplay

In Away from Home the action is viewed from a bird's-eye perspective. We accompany Abby, the main protagonist, and her brother Michael on adventures that determine the fate of the world around them. As we explore locations that are a fantasy variation of the modern world, we meet their inhabitants, engage in conversations with them, complete various quests, and make decisions that affect the course of the story and its ending.

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Additionally, we participate in a series of missions, random events, and side activities that we can pick from during our free time. They only serve as interludes, but also as sources of new moves and items.

Rhythmic combat

Combat plays a crucial role in the game, as it is based on mechanics known from rhythm games. We use directional buttons to execute basic and special attacks, use items, and block enemy strikes. We must ensure that our actions are synchronized with the music, as keeping to the rhythm earns us points that can be used to perform special attacks.

On the battlefield, we need to demonstrate dexterity, reflexes, and a sense of rhythm. It is also important to think tactical and properly utilize the items we have (the game allows us to carry a maximum of three items, used for things like neutralizing enemy attacks) and skillfully juggle special moves. Interestingly, opponents also have these special moves, but they can be countered by completing special quick time events.

Graphics and audio

The graphics of Away from Home were prepared in pixel art technique. The dialogue lines are voiced, and the gameplay unfolds to the accompaniment of music created by artists such as NickNuwe, Chaotrope, Zakku, and Nelward.

Platforms:

PC Windows

Developer: Squishy

Publisher: Squishy

Age restrictions: 12+

Similar Games:

Undertale

Crypt of the NecroDancer

Everhood 2

System Requirements

System Requirements for Away from Home Video Game:

PC / Windows

Minimum System Requirements:
Intel Core i3-3220, 2 GB RAM, graphic card 512 MB GeForce GT 430, 2 GB HDD, Windows 10/11 64-bit.

Recommended System Requirements:
Intel Core i3-6100, 8 GB RAM, graphic card 1 GB GeForce GTS 250, 2 GB HDD, Windows 10/11 64-bit.

Ratings

Game Ratings for Away from Home Video Game.

72%

STEAM Score

All Reviews: Mostly Positive (61)

STEAM

User Reviews Summary generated by AI

The main pros of the game

Art and Animation: The pixel art and animations are frequently praised as "gorgeous," "exquisite," and "some of the best seen in an indie game." Many users noted the high level of detail and effort put into the visuals.
Music and Soundtrack: The game's music is described as "catchy" and "excellent," with many users enjoying the rhythm-based combat that syncs with the music.
Unique Gameplay Mechanics: The rhythm-based combat system is considered innovative and adds a fun twist to the RPG genre. Users appreciated the challenge and engagement it provides.
Potential for Story and Characters: Several reviews mentioned the intriguing story and quirky characters, expressing hope for future content and improvements.

The main cons of the game

Bugs and Stability Issues: A significant number of reviews highlight serious bugs, crashes, and soft locks that hinder gameplay, making the game feel "unplayable" for many users.
Lack of Content: Many players were disappointed by the game's brevity, noting that it ends after only one chapter and contains minimal main content, leading some to feel misled about the game's value.
Poorly Explained Mechanics: Users pointed out that core mechanics, particularly combat and level-up systems, were not clearly explained, leading to frustrating experiences.
User Interface Issues: Complaints about clunky controls, menu navigation, and the inability to skip dialogue after dying were frequently mentioned.

The features or elements that are missing from the game according to users

Quality of Life Improvements: Players expressed a desire for features like easier navigation in menus, volume control during combat, and the ability to skip or fast-forward through dialogue.
Difficulty Adjustments: Some users suggested the implementation of an easy mode or difficulty modifiers to make the game more accessible, especially given the game's challenging nature.
More Content and Depth: There are calls for additional gameplay elements, such as more chapters, mini-games, and side quests, to provide a fuller experience.
Clearer Objectives and Context: Several reviews mentioned the lack of clarity regarding the game's objectives and world-building, which made it difficult for players to engage with the story.

Summary

Overall, while "Away From Home" shows great potential with its artistic and musical elements, it currently suffers from significant gameplay issues and a lack of content that detracts from the overall experience.

Summary generated on: January 19, 2026

Away from Home

Gameplay

Rhythmic combat

Graphics and audio

Features

System Requirements

Ratings

STEAM Score