A treacherous visual novel set in Italy about friendship, longing and grief. I’m pleased to announce the release of Mediterranean hell on Xbox Series S|X, an adult visual novel set against the backdrop of the Italian south. My name is Lorenzo Redaelli, aka Eyeguys, a multimedia artist from Milan, and I made this game to offer an insight into Italy that goes beyond the usual clichés. Together with the Santa Ragione team, we worked to create a narrative based on personal experiences and cultural reflections, with the aim of presenting a story that impresses both by its authenticity and its depth.
In the game, you accompany Claudio, Andrea and Mida on their journey as they attempt to recover from the collective trauma of the 2020 pandemic. These three young men in their early 20s reconnect after two years of forced isolation and hope to rekindle their friendship. As you choose their daily activities, you will discover their darkest fears and obsessions, and as the reality of their failed expectations comes to light, their hunger for revenge and retribution grows.
Based on my personal experiences, the inspiration for Mediterranean hell comes from the summers I spent in southern Italy, particularly in Martina Franca, Puglia. These visits, tracing my mother’s childhood, were full of family traditions and rituals that shaped my perspective on the region. From staying at my great-uncle’s country house to enjoying meals with Aunt Maria to attending local festivals, these experiences offered a mix of comfort and monotony, highlighting the dual nature of familiar rituals. It is bittersweet to be distanced from friends in the summer and to develop a keen awareness of the passage of time, reflected year after year in the aging eyes of our relatives.
As for the art direction, the game’s visual style is influenced by Italian horror cinema, with nods to directors like Dario Argento, Mario Bava and Lucio Fulci, with vibrant neon colors and exaggerated dark themes. Additionally, Luigi Ghirri’s photography, particularly his work on Puglia, was a major inspiration, giving the game’s environments a metaphysical quality. This mix of horror elements, illustration and photographic realism aims to create a nostalgic yet unsettling visual experience.
Through the game’s characters, I tried to capture the concept of boredom as a status symbol, inspired by the films of Luca Guadagnino. They represent the privileged youth of Milan who reflect on the contradictions and challenges of life beyond bourgeois boundaries. This exploration is linked to Italy’s rich religious iconography and is based on the influence of Pier Paolo Pasolini’s films and the ubiquity of Catholic imagery in Italian culture. The game integrates these elements to delve into the complex relationship that we Italians have with our cultural and religious heritage.
Mediterranean hellThe aim is to combine personal memories and critical reflections on our society. With this game I hope to contribute to the broader discourse on game narratives and to continue the tradition of Italian creativity. I can’t wait for you to play it, Mediterranean hell is available today on Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S!
Mediterranean hell
Holy reason
$9.99
$8.99
What could be better than a sensual summer holiday in the south of Italy? Join Claudio, Andrea and Mida on their journey as they attempt to recover from the collective trauma of the 2020 pandemic. Three young men in their early 20s reconnect with each other after two years of forced isolation and hope to rekindle their friendship. An extraordinary connection that made the trio something very special! A mythological power that far exceeds the sum of its parts! At least that’s what they think… As you choose their activities for the day, you will discover their darkest fears, their obsessions and, when the reality of their disappointed expectations becomes apparent, their thirst for revenge and retribution. A relaxing afternoon by the pool, a lustful night at the club or even a morbid visit to the local cemetery: you decide how you spend this summer vacation, but wherever you go, something or someone will be waiting for you and offering you something special, forbidden journey through the mysterious inner spaces of the conscience. Eat the Fruit of Illusions and fight for your endless summer!
