The game's UI is minimalistic but provides crucial information. Understanding each element will help you make informed decisions and react quickly to unfolding events. Here are the key UI components you'll encounter:
- Mental Health Meter: Located in the top-left corner of the screen, this meter represents your character's psychological well-being. It ranges from 'Normal' to 'Depressed' and 'Broken'. Negative events, failed QTEs, and stressful situations decrease it. Positive actions, like talking to friends or taking a shower, can increase it. If it drops too low, the game can end.
- Action Prompts: When you approach an interactive object or character, context-sensitive icons will appear. These indicate available actions (e.g., 'Look', 'Take', 'Talk'). Move your mouse over them to see the action's description.
- Quick Time Event (QTE) Prompts: During action sequences, large arrow icons (or gamepad button prompts) will flash on screen. These require quick and accurate input to succeed.
- Dialogue Choices: During conversations, multiple dialogue options may appear. Your choices can influence character relationships, mental health, and the story's progression.
- Inventory Icons: When you pick up an item, a small icon will briefly appear in the bottom-right corner, indicating it has been added to your inventory.
Keep a close eye on your Mental Health Meter, as it's the most critical indicator of your character's current state and your overall progress towards a successful outcome.