About This Demo

The Wondrous Wedding of Ivan the Bard is a nonlinear visual novel set in medieval Russia, blending historical accuracy with fantasy elements. You don't play as a knight, a bogatyr, or a mercenary.

Your hero is a simple young man with a gusli, so his only weapons are eloquence and music. A single careless word can turn a conversation hostile. One well-chosen reply can set a girl's heart aflutter. Converse, play the gusli, make friends, enemies, and lovers, and lead Ivan to one of several possible endings.

***

Novgorod, 13th century. Ivan is a humble gusli player who has come to the city to seek his fortune and find a bride. One day, he falls in love with the prince's daughter and dreams of marrying her, but the dream seems impossible—nothing ever goes Ivan’s way. At his lowest point, fate gives him a chance. Now, Ivan will live through a summer full of adventures in a magical Novgorod, uncover the mysteries of the female heart, win the princess’s love, and gain wealth and fame. But is it possible to have it all? Perhaps the series of choices will lead the hero to a very different destiny.

In the prologue, expect:

• 40-50 minutes of reading. A narrative styled in Old Russian speech. Minimal fluff, maximum dialogue!

• 20 characters from various strata of medieval society.

• 10 vibrant locations: streets of medieval Novgorod, estates, the market, the veche, and more. All hand-drawn, no AI. A visual style inspired by Ivan Bilibin’s illustrations.

• Lore rich with references to the real history and culture of the Novgorod Republic. Expand your Old Russian vocabulary!

• Seven musical compositions crafted specifically for the game.