Afterlove EP, a heartfelt slice-of-life adventure from the minds behind Coffee Talk and What Comes After, is finally available for Xbox Series X|S. It’s a project that has a deep emotional resonance for everyone at Pikselnesia, as it was developed amidst profound personal loss. Following the unexpected passing of our visionary founder, Fahmi Hasni, our team faced the challenge of channeling our own grief into the game’s powerful narrative.
Originally pitched by Fahmi, Afterlove EP was destined to be unique. From the moment I met him—quite unexpectedly through a dating app—it was clear we shared a creative connection far beyond fleeting interest. As discussions about the game matured—even during its early concept phase called ‘Project Heartbreak’—it was evident Fahmi aimed to capture the sensation of trying to move forward while haunted by the echoes of lost love. Tragically, just as we were gearing up for full production, Fahmi passed away, leaving us all grappling with shock and loss. He was a true narrative genius, and his absence was a void we felt every day.
As I was appointed the Narrative Lead, I drew directly from that well of pain to shape our protagonist’s journey. In doing so, I decided that he too would traverse the same emotional turmoil that engulfed me. Consequently, I subjected him to the raw realities of sorrow, channelling our collective heartache into the story.
The team, led by Ivor, who had been close to Fahmi since his days in gaming journalism, admirably held the reins. It fell to Ivor to guide Pikselnesia and handle the myriad challenges of managing this heartfelt project, keeping our publisher, Fellow Traveler, and Fahmi’s family informed. Drawing on his extensive experience in the AAA mobile game industry, Ivor became the steadying force we all needed during this tumultuous period.
Damas, another cornerstone of the Indonesian gaming landscape, supported us with strength and perseverance. His studio, Rolling Glory Jam, had been integral to the previous project’s success, and he continued to stand as a reliable ally. Giri, whom I had collaborated with on What Comes After, rejoined us, now as Lead Programmer. Reuniting with him was both comforting and energizing. Dany took on double duties, stepping into the role of Creative Director while managing technical development. Everyone involved was bound together by a shared mission to honor Fahmi’s creative vision—a testament to the deep friendship and admiration we all had for him.
Even before Afterlove EP transitioned from a coffee-fueled conversation into a tangible game under Fahmi’s direction, he had earmarked Soyatu as the artistic lead. It was easy to see why—with an unmistakable flair, Soyatu’s creations brought a vibrancy to our narrative about death and loss. When Pinga joined the project, contributing incredible backgrounds that perfectly complemented Soyatu’s dynamic characters, everything truly fell into place. And then there was Maxi, whose role in animating these characters was transformative. His history with Giri at Thinker Studio made this transition natural and seamless; it all felt like a reunion of sorts.
This meticulously assembled team was the exact fit for bringing Fahmi’s dream to life—anything less would have been a disservice. Fahmi’s deep-rooted love for Jakarta was pivotal, inspiring the game’s rich environment. From its bustling streets to hidden eateries, his home city’s vibrant music and art scene shaped the game’s sense of place. The inclusion of L’Alphalpha’s ethereal shoegaze music elevated the narrative, providing a soundscape that perfectly mirrored the emotional depths of the story, just as Fahmi envisioned.
In Afterlove EP, players step into the shoes of Rama, a young musician mourning the loss of his girlfriend, Cinta, who succumbed to a heart condition. Rama, enveloped by despair, is haunted by Cinta’s voice, which complicates his path to healing and letting go. As he seeks to write a new chapter in his life, he navigates decisions that affect not just him but the trajectory of everyone around him—particularly his band, Sigmund Feud, which teeters on a precipice as Rama deals with his personal struggles.
Throughout this month-long journey, players will witness Rama’s evolution through gorgeously handcrafted sequences intertwined with gameplay—a distinctive feature of Soyatu’s artistry. Engaging with these rich narratives, gamers will guide Rama in both his internal battles and his external music performances, orchestrating the rhythm of his life’s unfolding narrative.
Jakarta itself emerges as an indelible character within Afterlove EP, with real-world locales that were close to Fahmi’s heart meticulously woven into the game. As players traverse this vibrant cityscape, they’ll gain unique insights into the very pulse that made Fahmi adore this setting. Perhaps, some players may find themselves physically exploring those spots one day, gaining a new, shared understanding of Fahmi’s affection for Jakarta.
Ultimately, Afterlove EP isn’t just a game; it’s Fahmi’s final opus, a tribute lovingly crafted by those closest to him. With each moment of gameplay, players experience a profound story that draws from genuine emotion and compelling artistry. Though I’ve shared parts of this journey with you, the true wonder awaits your own exploration. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who supported us through this journey—because of you, Fahmi’s last masterpiece breathes with life. We look forward to when we meet again, grateful and inspired.
