ReStory: Repair iconic 2000s gadgets in a cozy Tokyo repair shop

ReStory is an upcoming indie game from Mandragora that puts you in the shoes of a small electronics repair shop owner in mid‑2000s Tokyo. The trailer shows you restoring and cleaning nostalgic devices — from Tamagotchi‑style virtual pets to a PSP‑like handheld, Walkman riffs and classic Nokia‑style phones — while interacting with customers whose lives may be shaped by your conversations as much as your repairs.

The game aims for a relaxed, charming tone: gameplay looks equal parts tinkering and slice‑of‑life storytelling. ReStory is currently in playtesting with a planned release in 2026, giving players a chance to try the concept early and provide feedback to the developer.

Key features (from trailer & early coverage)

• Repair and clean a variety of retro‑inspired gadgets drawn from the 2000s era.
• Shop‑management and customer interactions that influence narrative outcomes.
• Cozy, low‑pressure pacing aimed at players who enjoy tinkering and story‑driven experiences.
• Playtesting available ahead of a planned 2026 launch.

Why ReStory stands out

ReStory taps into nostalgia for early‑2000s electronics while offering casual simulation and narrative choices. Its focus on human‑scale interactions — repairing objects that mattered to customers — sets it apart from higher‑tempo repair or factory sims. It’s a tonal counterpoint to games like Kaizen: both center on making and mending, but ReStory leans into gentle storytelling and everyday moments.

What to watch for

• Details on mechanics: how deep the repair minigames will be and whether parts/difficulty scale as the game progresses.
• Playtesting windows: how to sign up or where demo builds will appear (watch Mandragora’s channels and the game’s Steam/Early Access page, if available).
• Release timing and platforms: currently planned for 2026; platform details may emerge during playtests or closer to launch.

For the original report and trailer, see the coverage: Engadget — ReStory preview.

Discussion: Does a game about fixing retro gadgets sound relaxing or addicting to you — and which 2000s device would you most like to repair in‑game? Share your picks and nostalgia moments below.