60
Return to Ash is a visual novel about being dead and being alone. It has a strong premise, but one I don't think it lives up to. My biggest issue stems from how short it is as when it finally starts to get interesting, the story is over. Still, it's a fine time, and there is one strong story route in here that shows it could be done with a little more time. I still think it's worth a try, just know you'll do everything in an afternoon.
0
It’s a game that mistakes introspection for depth, and in doing so, loses itself entirely.
72
Exploring life, death, and second chances, Return to Ash is a concise but contemplative visual novel. While the poignant plot might resonate with some, others may find the pacing slow and the cast hard to connect with.
8
Return to Ash is a great introspective visual novel on social isolation. I don't have a lot of experience in the genre but I found the characters written quite well, each one embodying a pretty complex personality trait. I loved the chill and simple but effective music, loved the plot twists and the cozy overall vibe. Absolutely would recommend playing if you're up to chilling and reflecting.
1
A she/her protagonist, a they/them personification of death, and a pudgy weak male character. Return to Ash is a slow and plodding wall-of-text choose-your-own adventure. This game gets one point for not being funded by a government grant.
Return to Ash
Released On:
Jul 10, 2025
Metascore
Available after 4 critic reviews
tbd
User score
Mixed or Average
6.6
My Score
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All Platforms
Metascore
Available after 4 critic reviews
tbd
0% Positive
0 Reviews
0 Reviews
67% Mixed
2 Reviews
2 Reviews
33% Negative
1 Review
1 Review
Jul 18, 2025
72
Exploring life, death, and second chances, Return to Ash is a concise but contemplative visual novel. While the poignant plot might resonate with some, others may find the pacing slow and the cast hard to connect with.
Jul 28, 2025
60
Return to Ash is a visual novel about being dead and being alone. It has a strong premise, but one I don't think it lives up to. My biggest issue stems from how short it is as when it finally starts to get interesting, the story is over. Still, it's a fine time, and there is one strong story route in here that shows it could be done with a little more time. I still think it's worth a try, just know you'll do everything in an afternoon.
Jul 23, 2025
0
It’s a game that mistakes introspection for depth, and in doing so, loses itself entirely.
User score
Mixed or Average
6.6
57% Positive
4 Ratings
4 Ratings
14% Mixed
1 Rating
1 Rating
29% Negative
2 Ratings
2 Ratings
Mar 22, 2026
8
Return to Ash is a great introspective visual novel on social isolation. I don't have a lot of experience in the genre but I found the characters written quite well, each one embodying a pretty complex personality trait. I loved the chill and simple but effective music, loved the plot twists and the cozy overall vibe. Absolutely would recommend playing if you're up to chilling and reflecting.
Mar 1, 2026
1
A she/her protagonist, a they/them personification of death, and a pudgy weak male character. Return to Ash is a slow and plodding wall-of-text choose-your-own adventure. This game gets one point for not being funded by a government grant.
Summary“The hospital was empty. Quiet, and brighter than usual... like waking up on a snow day. But I didn't feel cold. I didn't feel much of anything.”
Platforms:
- PC
Initial Release Date:Jul 10, 2025
Developer:
Publisher:
