Japanese indie 'and Roger' breaks seven-year drought with Taipei Game Show Grand Prix win

TearyHand Studio's BAFTA-nominated visual novel breaks Japan's seven-year indie gaming drought with top honours. Now 30% off at Dhs 13 until 11 February - uncover dark secrets in this mysterious point-and-click adventure.

'and Roger', the mysterious point-and-click visual novel by TearyHand Studio, has won both the Grand Prix and Best Audio awards at the 2026 Taipei Game Show Indie Game Awards. According to Kodansha Creators' Lab, this marks the first time in seven years that a Japanese indie game has claimed the show's top honour.

Breaking a seven-year drought

The BAFTA-nominated title's double win represents a significant achievement for Japanese indie game development. The Grand Prix is Taipei Game Show's most prestigious indie award, and 'and Roger' joins an exclusive group of winners that hadn't included a Japanese developer since 2019.

To celebrate the recognition, both Steam and Nintendo Switch are offering the game at a 30% discount, reducing the price from $4.99 to $3.49 (approximately Dhs 18 to Dhs 13). The promotional pricing runs until Wednesday, 11 February 2026, at 6.59pm GST.

A mysterious morning routine

The game centers on a young girl whose typical morning takes an unsettling turn when she discovers a stranger in her father's favourite spot. "Who is he? Where is dad…and why is this strange man acting as if he belongs here? Why is he telling me to 'take my medicine'?" the protagonist wonders.

Players uncover the truth through interactive mini-games woven into everyday activities, with each mundane task potentially holding clues to the girl's peculiar circumstances. The slice-of-life visual novel combines point-and-click mechanics with narrative elements to create what the developers describe as an emotional journey.

Global availability and recognition

The game supports nine languages including English, Japanese, Korean, Traditional and Simplified Chinese, French, German, Italian, and Spanish. Its BAFTA nomination earlier this year highlighted its artistic merit within the gaming community.

UAE players can access 'and Roger' through both Steam and the Nintendo Switch eShop during the discount period. The game's recognition at an international event like Taipei Game Show often translates to increased visibility and sales for indie developers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What awards did 'and Roger' win?

'and Roger' won the Grand Prix and Best Audio awards at the Taipei Game Show Indie Game Awards 2026, making it the first Japanese indie to claim the top prize in seven years.

Where can I play 'and Roger'?

'and Roger' is available on PC via Steam and Nintendo Switch. Both platforms offer the game globally, including in the UAE.

Is 'and Roger' currently on discount?

Yes, there's a 30% discount reducing the price from $4.99 to $3.49 (approximately Dhs 13) on both Steam and Nintendo Switch until 11 February 2026 at 6.59pm GST.

What type of game is 'and Roger'?

'and Roger' is a mysterious point-and-click slice-of-life visual novel that follows a young girl whose morning routine takes an unexpected turn when she discovers a stranger in her home.

Has 'and Roger' won other awards?

The game was nominated for a BAFTA award earlier this year, highlighting its recognition within the international gaming community before its Taipei Game Show wins.