CyberStep through their visual novel brand, Rabbitfoot, officially announced a new game project titled Rica Mode (りかも～ど♡). This game features VTuber Rica Hanamiya (花宮莉歌) as the main cast in a fully voiced visual novel format with a strong focus on the audio experience. The release is planned for summer 2026, while platform and region details are pending further announcement.
ASMR Visual Novel Project from CyberStep and Rabbitfoot
The Rica Mode game project was first announced on December 25, 2025 in a broadcast on Rica Hanamiya's official YouTube channel, “Rica Ch. / 花宮莉歌”. The broadcast showed the title, logo, and website teaser, along with the target release information around summer 2026.
Rica Mode is described as a full voice visual novel with ASMR voice-over recorded using binaural microphones. This approach is intended to create an audio effect that feels close, as if the character's voice is in the vicinity of the player's ear. For a visual novel genre that relies on dialog and atmosphere, this combination has the potential to make the story experience feel more intimate and immersive.
CyberStep is placing this project under the Rabbitfoot label, which focuses on developing visual novels based on VTuber characters and online creators. Further information regarding story content, route structure, gameplay details, and other technical information is planned to be shared through the official Rica Mode website and Rabbitfoot's official X account.
Brief Profile of VTuber Rica Hanamiya
Rica Hanamiya is described as a “tensai koakuma maid Vtuber” who loves songs, games, and cats. Based on data as of December 2025 in an official release, her YouTube channel has reached around 666,000 subscribers. Her activities are not only limited to ASMR, but also include games実況, singing sessions, and casual chat broadcasts.
In the game project announcement broadcast, Rica expressed her enthusiasm for direct involvement as the main character in this visual novel. For fans who are familiar with her voice, Rica's presence as the main character in Rica Mode has the potential to offer an experience that feels natural, as her speaking style and on-stream persona are brought into the game.
Rabbitfoot Concept and Global Release Plan
Rabbitfoot as a visual novel brand has the concept of developing games that present VTuber and game streamers as themselves in the story. Target platforms mentioned in the official release include PC, home consoles, and smartphones, with the release orientation geared towards the global market.
Rica Mode is planned for release in summer 2026. Information regarding specific platforms, age rating, story details, language options, and form of distribution (digital or physical) have not been detailed. Those interested in following the development of this project can monitor updates via the official Rica Mode website, Rabbitfoot's X account, and Rica Hanamiya's official X channel and account as the release date approaches.
