ACE Academy (2016)

Developer: PixelFade
Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux
Genres: Action, Adventure, Indie, RPG, Simulation, Sports
Rating: 4.8 of 5, 1,469 player ratings
Typical playtime: about 12 hours
Where to get it: Steam

The 3D catalog: game boxes on wooden shelves, with the cat sitting at the counter next to its greeting.

The catalog in 3D

The same catalog has a room you can walk around in. The cat behind the counter is the AI Catbot, and they pick real games from it when you tell them what you feel like playing. Nothing is for sale, here or in there. Go in from here and this game is already out on the counter, with more like it waiting on the shelf next to it.

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How it feels

A lighthearted anime-inspired visual novel where you attend a robotics academy, making choices that shape relationships and mech-based sports stories.

choose your own adventurestory richrelaxingcutefunnymultiple endingsanimeromantic

What players say

Players call this a standout western visual novel with likeable characters, sharp humor, and genuine emotional moments, though the main plot is weak and the ending feels rushed. The romance routes are the highlight, with choices that actually matter for relationships. Many note the studio has since shut down, making these games harder to find.

Screenshots

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More by PixelFade

This page is from Underplayed Gems, a catalog of older and overlooked games. Not quite it? You can browse by platform and genre, or take this one into the 3D catalog and ask the Catbot for something closer.