Independent game developer Dinosaur Polo Club has launched a new experimental title, RTFM (Read The Fcking Manual)*, a short co-op puzzle game available for free on PC and Mac via itch.io. Released on April 1 as part of the studio’s annual creative initiative, the game highlights the team’s return to its game jam roots.
A Game Jam Project with a Corporate Horror Twist
Developed during the studio’s internal “Creativity Week,” RTFM is a compact, replayable experience built by a core team of seven developers over the course of a week. The project was released under the experimental label “DPC Labs,” reflecting its origins outside the studio’s primary production pipeline.
Set inside a fictional corporation called Harmonic Inc., the game places two players in a high-pressure scenario where they must process cryptic data while avoiding a looming “decoherence meltdown.” The gameplay blends puzzle-solving with communication challenges, emphasizing teamwork—and occasionally deception.
Players take on one of two roles: Troubleshooter or Operator. The Troubleshooter relies on a detailed manual to guide decision-making, while the Operator interacts with on-screen systems and relays information. Success depends on how effectively the two players communicate under pressure.
Inspired by Co-Op Classics and Sci-Fi Storytelling
RTFM draws clear inspiration from cooperative puzzle games like Keep Talking and Nobody Explodes, as well as science fiction influences such as The X-Files, Portal, and Control. The result is a mix of tension and humor, where players must navigate both the game’s mechanics and their partner’s trustworthiness.
The experience includes multiple endings, encouraging replayability and experimentation. Players can choose to collaborate fully—or introduce misdirection—to see how outcomes change.
A Return to Creative Roots
According to CEO Amie Wolken, projects like RTFM are a core part of the studio’s culture.
“We love game jams,” Wolken said. “Creativity Week gives our team the freedom to explore ideas that don’t fit into our regular development schedule. It’s a chance to experiment, collaborate, and create without constraints.”
This approach mirrors the studio’s early beginnings. Its breakout hit, Mini Metro, originated during a game jam and went on to earn critical acclaim and a BAFTA nomination. The follow-up title, Mini Motorways, expanded on that success with a focus on road-building and traffic management.
Community Manager Casey Lucas-Quaid noted that releasing RTFM publicly was a natural step.
“We’re always making things, even between major releases,” Lucas-Quaid said. “This project stood out as something players might enjoy, and it felt like a great way to share that creativity while celebrating April Fool’s Day.”
Free-to-Play and Accessible
Unlike many indie releases, RTFM is entirely free to download and play, making it accessible to a broad audience. The game’s short format and minimal system requirements make it especially appealing for casual players or those looking for a quick co-op experience.
Its design also reflects a growing trend in the U.S. and global gaming market toward smaller, experimental titles that prioritize creativity over scale—often developed in short cycles and distributed digitally.
About Dinosaur Polo Club
Founded in 2013 and based in Wellington, New Zealand, Dinosaur Polo Club is an independent studio known for its minimalist design philosophy and accessible gameplay. The company was established by brothers Peter and Robert Curry and has grown to a team of nearly 30 developers.
Its portfolio includes Mini Metro and Mini Motorways, both widely recognized for their clean aesthetics and strategic gameplay. Together, these titles form part of the studio’s expanding “Mini” series.
The studio continues to emphasize a collaborative and inclusive work environment, encouraging creative exploration both within and outside its main projects.
Conclusion
With RTFM, Dinosaur Polo Club offers a glimpse into its experimental side, delivering a compact yet engaging co-op experience rooted in communication and trust. While smaller in scope than its flagship titles, the game underscores the studio’s commitment to creativity—and its willingness to share those experiments with players worldwide.
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