Pull Stay

Pull Stay is a quirky beat ’em up brawler set in the confined world of Susumu, a young man who has chosen to isolate himself in his room, embodying the hikikomori lifestyle—a social phenomenon in Japan where individuals withdraw from society. Players take on the role of Susumu as he defends his home from waves of unusual enemies who come knocking, each with their own strange motives, whether out of concern, curiosity, or mockery. The game blends humor and charm through its inventive traps and gadgets, such as baked fish missiles, toothpaste turrets, and watermelon bazookas, which players can unlock and deploy to fend off intruders and protect Susumu’s space. Gameplay revolves around learning new combat moves by engaging different enemy types, encouraging experimentation and adaptability. Beyond fighting, players gather resources by breaking into neighbors’ houses—turning the environment into a strategic asset for building new rooms or setting up defenses. Susumu is supported by a companion, Susumu, who crafts power-up items, though he can be temperamental and requires occasional “punishment” to stay productive. Throughout the game, players face off against a variety of quirky bosses, each presenting unique challenges that test the player’s tactics and timing. Overall, Pull Stay offers a blend of humor, strategy, and heartfelt storytelling that reflects the developer’s personal experience with social withdrawal, creating a distinctive and empathetic gaming experience.