Mad Father: A Horror RPG Masterpiece – Story, Endings, and Analysis
Introduction
Mad Father is a renowned indie horror RPG developed by Sen, first released in 2012 using the Wolf RPG Editor and later remastered in 2016. This game quickly became a cult classic in the RPG Maker horror genre, joining the ranks of Ib, The Witch’s House, and Ao Oni. It masterfully blends psychological horror, grotesque imagery, and emotional storytelling to create an unforgettable experience.
In this article, we will explore Mad Father’s plot, its multiple endings, and why it is widely regarded as a masterpiece in the horror RPG community.
Plot Summary
The story revolves around Aya Drevis, an 11-year-old girl living in a secluded mansion in Northern Germany. Her father, Dr. Alfred Drevis, is a scientist engaged in macabre experiments, often conducting gruesome procedures on living subjects in his underground laboratory. Aya’s mother, Monika Drevis, had passed away under mysterious circumstances, leaving the girl alone with her emotionally distant and eerie father.
On the anniversary of her mother’s death, supernatural events begin to unfold. The mansion is suddenly overrun by vengeful spirits—former victims of Dr. Drevis—seeking revenge for their torment. To survive the night, Aya must navigate the terrifying mansion, uncover dark family secrets, and determine her own fate.
Key Characters
- Aya Drevis – The protagonist, an innocent yet brave young girl who slowly learns the horrifying truth about her family.
- Dr. Alfred Drevis – A sadistic scientist obsessed with his gruesome experiments.
- Maria – The doctor’s loyal assistant, who harbors her own tragic past.
- Monika Drevis – Aya’s deceased mother, whose spirit lingers around the mansion.
- Dio – A mysterious, silver-haired boy who aids Aya in escaping the horrors.
- The Cursed Spirits – Victims of Dr. Drevis’ experiments, now seeking vengeance.
Gameplay and Mechanics
Mad Father is a story-driven horror adventure game that relies on puzzle-solving, exploration, and atmosphere. Players must search for key items, unlock new areas, and avoid deadly traps while piecing together the tragic backstory of the Drevis family. The game features multiple endings depending on the player’s choices and interactions throughout the story.
Unlike typical RPGs, Mad Father lacks direct combat. Instead, the player must use quick reflexes and clever problem-solving to survive the horrors lurking within the mansion. The game also features timed sequences that require the player to escape dangers, adding an element of urgency and tension.
Endings and Their Meanings
Mad Father offers multiple endings, each providing a different perspective on Aya’s fate and the legacy of the Drevis family.
1. True Ending (The Good Ending)
In this ending, Aya successfully escapes the mansion with Maria after confronting her father. However, as they leave, the game subtly hints that Aya might be following in her father’s footsteps. In the final scene, she is seen reading a book on human anatomy while Maria watches over her, implying that the cycle of madness may continue. This ending suggests that Aya has inherited more from her father than just his intelligence.
2. Normal Ending
This ending is similar to the true ending, but with minor differences. Aya still escapes with Maria, but the implication of her becoming like her father is less pronounced. The player is left wondering whether she will choose a different path or succumb to the dark legacy.
3. Bad Ending (Father’s Ending)
If the player makes certain choices, Aya is unable to escape, and Dr. Drevis captures her. In a horrifying twist, he declares his intent to experiment on her, just as he did with his previous victims. The game ends with Aya trapped in a fate worse than death.
4. Another Ending (Maria’s Ending)
In this alternative ending, Maria becomes the true successor to Dr. Drevis. She resurrects him through unethical medical means, proving her loyalty. This outcome emphasizes Maria’s devotion to the doctor and reveals that she is just as twisted as he was.
Why Mad Father Is a Masterpiece
1. A Unique and Gripping Story
The game’s storytelling is one of its strongest points. While the initial premise appears straightforward—a girl trying to survive in a haunted mansion—the narrative unfolds in unexpected ways. Themes of abuse, scientific obsession, and moral corruption are woven into the plot, making it more than just a simple horror game.
2. Deep and Complex Characters
Unlike many horror RPGs where characters serve as mere plot devices, Mad Father presents a cast with depth and emotional weight. Aya is not just a scared little girl; she is a layered protagonist who undergoes a journey of self-discovery. Dr. Drevis, despite being a monstrous figure, is not entirely one-dimensional—his motivations are disturbing yet fascinating. Maria’s character arc is also compelling, as her devotion to Dr. Drevis raises questions about loyalty, trauma, and survival.
3. Atmospheric Horror and Psychological Tension
Instead of relying on jump scares, Mad Father creates an eerie atmosphere through its sound design, unsettling visuals, and disturbing backstory. The tension builds as players uncover more about the mansion’s dark secrets, making the horror feel psychological rather than just superficial.
4. Well-Designed Puzzles and Gameplay Mechanics
The game balances exploration and puzzle-solving well. Unlike some RPG Maker horror titles that rely too much on trial and error, Mad Father gives players enough clues to solve its challenges without making them too easy. The timed escape sequences add another layer of urgency and make the gameplay more engaging.
5. Multiple Endings and Replay Value
The different endings encourage multiple playthroughs, allowing players to make different choices and see alternative outcomes. Each ending adds a new perspective to the story, making the experience richer.
6. Stunning Remastered Version
The 2016 remake introduced improved visuals, additional story content, and better mechanics, making the game even more immersive. The remastered version enhances the atmosphere with improved animations and redesigned sprites, making it the definitive way to experience Mad Father.
In the other hands..
Mad Father is more than just a horror RPG; it is a psychological exploration of twisted familial bonds, the consequences of unchecked ambition, and the blurred line between innocence and madness. Its compelling story, rich character development, and immersive horror elements make it one of the best games in its genre.
If you are a fan of RPG Maker horror games or enjoy narrative-driven horror experiences, Mad Father is a must-play. Its unique blend of eerie storytelling, moral ambiguity, and psychological horror cements its status as a true masterpiece.
it is a true masterpiece…-Vallenina