what is yume nikki?

_{yume nikki (en: dream diary) is a surrealist exploration indie game developed by kikiyama. you play as a young shut-in named madotsuki, exploring her dream world and collecting "effects". it was released in 2005 and has since spurred a cult-like following. there is no official story, allowing fans to come up with rich theories surrounding the strange characters and environments.}

_{the original game has not been updated since 2007, and kikiyama themselves has remained largely anonymous. however, in recent years a manga, light novel, and a 3D remastering have been released. there are also multiple fanmade games inspired by it. the impact of this little game is amazing!}

_{i discovered the game during middle school. its ambiguity and surreal nature fascinated me for years. i can't help but feel sentimental for madotsuki because of how lonely she is. thank you yume nikki for everything!}