Yes, that Notepad, the one that comes with Windows and contains a million readme files. It's kind of amazing that you can use it to play an RPG.

Backing up a bit, this is a thoroughly traditional fantasy game in which a) you have to slay a dragon and b) your family is killed just a few steps in. You, the hero's egg, must train and dress yourself to slay the dragon. And, of course, you do this by fiddling with .txt files.

In this game, which takes place in a custom version of Notepad, you interact with "Still Wounded" by dragging scene files into the program and editing parameters as you arrive at each location. For example, to select an option in the dialog, you type any letter in the checkbox. Then, to confirm it, press Ctrl+S to proceed with the game. So basically every time I do anything, Ctrl+S. Ctrl+S. Ctrl+S. bloody unwieldy. In the end, from what I've played, the game is worth it.

There's a lot to like (ASCII art, refreshingly serious writing) and some clever solutions to an extremely unusual format. Combat, for example. Yes, turn-based (and some timed combat), where you have to turn off and enter characters in a race against time. There must be a lot of clever thinking behind this text adventure. If you are intrigued, you can download And yet it hurt from itch.io. (Thanks, Warp Door.)

For more great free experiences, check out our summary of the best free PC games.