Ballads at Midnight

About Ballads at Midnight APK

When a quick-witted bard named Elyse is banished to an ancient, abandoned castle, she expects to be at the mercy of some monstrous creature. Instead, she finds herself under the gaze of Lucius, a vampire who seems more bored than bloodthirsty. As she navigates her new surroundings, Elyse learns that survival hinges not on the vampire’s hunger but on her ability to captivate him with her midnight ballads.

Main Characters

Elyse is a well-seasoned bard who has traveled far and wide. Her sharp tongue and quick wit have earned her many scars, both literal and metaphorical. Despite her rough exterior, she possesses a deep empathy and genuine interest in those around her. Her tendency to share her observations bluntly has often led to trouble, but it also underscores her unique gift for storytelling.

The Love Interest

Lucius, the vampire, initially appears menacing and unyielding. However, beneath his coarse exterior lies a sharp wit that he is eager to share. His sense of humor is often lost on his terrified guests, but when he finds someone who appreciates his banter, he reveals a more vulnerable side. Despite his centuries-old existence, he remains intriguing and complex, making him the perfect counterpoint to Elyse’s sparky personality.

Gameplay and Features

Ballads at Midnight is a dark fantasy romance that seamlessly blends lighthearted moments with deeper, darker themes. The game is rich in believable dialogue and playful banter, making it a joy to play. With beautiful sprites and original music, the game offers a unique gaming experience that is both captivating and emotional. The story unfolds across multiple endings—abandoning Lucius, remaining in eternal bliss, or discovering gruesome secrets. The player’s choices shape the narrative in meaningful ways, whether it’s by flirting shamelessly or using a sharp tongue.

The game features over 42,000 words, translating to around 3-4 hours of playtime per playthrough. It includes partial voice acting and two original bard songs that add an extra layer of depth to the storytelling.

Content Warnings and Credits

Ballads at Midnight is rated T for suggestive material, strong language, alcohol use, and allusions to trauma, child abuse, and fantasy violence. The game was created by a dedicated team including Ayael (Director, UI designer & programmer, scripter), Arrapso (Sprite, background artist), Wudgeous (Lead writer, narrative designer), Notafish (Writer), Jeneara (Editor), Rowanty (scripter), Eliana Zebro (Audio & voice director), Shar Joyner (composer), Megan Youmans (Voice actor – MC), Eric Navarro (Voice actor – Lucius), and Kimi (Trailer creator). It was developed during the 2022 NaNoReNo jam, showcasing the team’s remarkable efficiency and creativity.