Algorithm Prescription: New PC Visual Novel & Free Trial Date Revealed

Shochiku Co., Ltd.’s Game Division has announced the initiation of development for “Algorithm Prescription,” a new visual novel game for PC. A free trial version is slated for release on Steam in the second quarter of 2026, offering players a preview of the game’s world and narrative.

Romance and Suspense in a Fully AI-Managed City

“Algorithm Prescription” is built around the concept of “Romance x Suspense.” The free trial will present the story from a third-person perspective, focusing on the relationships between characters and the overall setting, rather than directly through the protagonist’s eyes. Developers state the trial contains foreshadowing elements relevant to the full game, intended to entice players to explore the complete experience.

Xenoria: A Glimpse into the Game’s World

The game is set in Xenoria, a futuristic metropolis described as the world’s first fully AI-managed city. This advanced urban environment has gained popularity due to its AI-driven optimization of living conditions for its inhabitants. The setting suggests a narrative exploring the benefits and potential drawbacks of complete reliance on artificial intelligence.

Meet the Characters

Character designs are by illustrator Hakuseki. The currently revealed characters include:

• Kokoro (Protagonist): A medical intern at Xenoria General Hospital. The protagonist’s name is customizable, and the character has no voice actor announced as of this release.
• Kou: A colleague of Kokoro, and the perspective character for the free trial version. Voice actor details are currently unconfirmed.
• Hiiragi: A psychiatrist at Xenoria General Hospital. Voice actor details are currently unconfirmed.
• Tachibana: A neighbor of Kokoro. Voice actor details are currently unconfirmed.
• Act: A mysterious figure whose role in the narrative remains undisclosed. Voice actor details are currently unconfirmed.

Free Trial Synopsis: A Story Told Through Kou’s Eyes

The free trial focuses on Kou’s experience as a new member of the hospital’s public relations department. During an interview with Kokoro, Kou grapples with past trauma. The narrative then shifts to explore the interaction between Kou and Kokoro, offering a glimpse into their developing relationship and the world around them. The developers emphasize that the trial version is designed to provide clues and context for the full game.

Official Social Media and Community Engagement

An official Japanese X (formerly Twitter) account (https://x.com/algorithm_pre) has been launched to provide updates on “Algorithm Prescription.” The developers plan to run campaigns on the platform and encourage followers, suggesting that community engagement will directly support the game’s development.

Product Overview

• Title: Algorithm Prescription
• Genre: Visual Novel
• Themes: Obsessive Romance, Suspense
• Release Date (Free Trial): Second Quarter 2026
• Language Support: Japanese, Simplified Chinese, Traditional Chinese, English
• Platform: Steam
• Hashtag: #AlPre (#アルプレ)

Development Team

The project is a collaboration between Shochiku Co., Ltd., Leonasoftware, and GameBridge. Development and sales are being handled by Shochiku Games, with contributions from Re,ARE LLC and Hakuseki as the illustrator.

“Algorithm Prescription” represents a new entry into the visual novel genre, blending romance and suspense within a technologically advanced setting. The free trial on Steam in Q2 2026 will provide a first look at the game’s world and characters, potentially attracting a dedicated player base before the full release.