Journal similar games & best alternatives

Journal

Linux, PC (Microsoft Windows), Mac • 2014

Should you play it?

Enter the pages of the hand painted world of Journal. A journey through the life of a young and troubled girl as she tries to face up to the choices and responsibilities that come with childhood. An experience that questions the reliability of how we choose to remember events and explores the truths hidden within our dreams.

What works

  • Emotional and personal narrative
  • Unique hand-drawn art style
  • Soothing music and atmosphere
  • Thought-provoking themes
  • Simple, accessible gameplay

Things to keep in mind

  • Short playtime (~2 hours)
  • Limited gameplay depth
  • Fixed story outcome despite choices
  • Some control and interface clunkiness
  • Price considered high for content

What to play next

Top picks

Games that feels the closest overall

More fantastical

Games that feels like Journal but with more imaginative fiction · 20 games

More expressive

Games that feels like Journal but with more self-expression and customization · 4 games

More fellowship-oriented

Games that feels like Journal but with a stronger sense of community · 3 games

Less intimate

Games that feels like Journal but with less focus on close relationships · 2 games

Others

Other games that might remind you of Journal · 12 games

Choose your own criteria ->

Last update: 18/09/2026