Project Search is free on Steam

Project Search is a visual novel of Chinese immortality cultivation. Scholar Qian Jiangmin investigates collapsed pagodas in Linhai's old town while searching for his missing brother. With the help of Daoist cultivators, he explores grotto-heavens and uncovers the truth behind his double vision.

Frequently Asked Questions:

How to get it free?

Step 1: Click "Get It Free" button.

Step 2: After clicking the "Get It Free" button, you will be redirected to the game's page on the Steam store. You should see a green "Play Game" or "Add to Library" button on the page. Click it.

Step 3: A new window will open confirming that you want to add the game to your Steam library. Go through the installation prompts by clicking "Next" until you reach the end. Then, click "Finish" to add the game to your library.

Step 4: The game should now be in your Steam library. To play it, you'll need to install it first. Do this by navigating to your library, clicking on the game, and then clicking the "Install" button. Once the game is installed, you can launch it directly from your Steam library.

How can I download Project Search?

You should log in to Steam to download and play it for free.

How can I get notified about the free games in the Steam category with the Free Games Discord Bot?

Use the `/cat` command to activate the Steam category. Once activated, when games like Project Search become free, the Free Games Discord bot will share them in your Discord server. For more information about the Discord bot, click here.

Which platforms is the game playable?

Project Search can playable the following platforms: Windows

What is the genre of the game?

The genres of the game are Single-player .

What languages are available for Project Search?

Project Search supports the following languages: English*, Traditional Chinese**languages with full audio support

When was Project Search released?

The game relased on Nov 16, 2024

Who is the publisher of the game?

FSCHOOL,With in/out Linhai

Who is the developer of the game?

Pete Jiadong Qiang

Is "Project Search" still free?

The game is currently free. If you add the game to your library within the time specified in the free game offer, the game will be permanently yours.

Project Search is an atmospheric visual novel inspired by Chinese science fiction and Daoist cultivation of immortality. Set in the spectral landscapes of Linhai, Chongqing, and Dunhuang, the game invites players to explore parallel dimensions, ancient grotto-heavens, and transcendental urban spaces.

Character and Plot

The protagonist, Qian Jiangmin, is a young scholar recovering from illness searching for his brother. His journey gradually reveals hidden grotto-heavens and mysteries about his double vision, propelling him toward self-discovery and transcendence.

You will take on the role of Qian Jiangmin with his HMD (head-mounted display) and drone, a young researcher on a quest to find his brother. Guided by scholars and Daoist cultivators, you will explore the mysterious underground realms hidden within Linhai's old town.

How to Play

Navigate using WASD and arrow keys, with Shift to speed up and Enter to access a bird's-eye view of the level. Use the Spacebar to switch levels, and press and hold i to inspect specific NPCs and locations. Press R to restart the level.

Throughout your journey, approach and interact with dodecahedron objects and hidden features, activated by mouse hovering or clicking, to dive deeper into the lore.

Non-linear Exploration

Designed to be non-linear with no compulsory objectives, Project Search emphasises exploration and discovery. You can switch to 14 levels anytime.

Players are encouraged to wander, uncover hidden artefacts, and piece together the city's incompleteness, imperfection, and picturesqueness. There are no fixed goals—just the thrill of curiosity and adventure.

Sandstorm Dunhuang

Project Search transports players to Dunhuang's ordinary yet metaphysical streets, a significant religious city with ancient cultural heritage in China's far northwest. You will experience the rhythms of everyday life while uncovering deeper spiritual and historical layers.

Foggy Chongqing

Another scene in the game is set in Chongqing, capturing the constant rain, mist, and post-industrial feel of the district adjacent to the Sichuan Fine Arts Institute. This environment adds a hauntingly surreal atmosphere, blending art with the urban landscape.

Non-collision Linhai

Most Project Search unfolds in the old town of Linhai, Taizhou, in Zhejiang province. This setting forms an urban techno-fantasy that links Chinese Daoist philosophies with modern technology, offering a spectral and uncanny vision for players to reflect Chinese cultural heritage.

An Auto-ethnography

Each level in Project Search combines art, myth, and contemplation, creating an immersive experience. This encourages players to distinctly personalise their reflections on spirituality, cultural heritage, and modernity.

Shared Universe with HyperBody

Project Search is set in the same universe as the HyperBody VR game and shares NPCs and specific environments. Fans of HyperBody will enjoy exploring connections at the Garden Portal level, which provides an extended immersive experience across both games.