# A Study in Steampunk

> Choice by Gaslight

Canonical page: [https://chrome-stats.com/d/id1048462303](https://chrome-stats.com/d/id1048462303)

## Overview

- **ID:** `id1048462303`
- **Platform:** Apple
- **Type:** Apple app
- **Status:** Available
- **Publisher:** Hosted Games LLC
- **Category:** Roleplaying
- **Rating:** 4.70 / 5 (122 ratings)
- **Version:** 1.0.7
- **Last updated:** 2026-01-08
- **First published:** 2015-11-19
- **Size:** 31 MB
- **Data as of:** 2026-09-12
- **Store listing:** [Apple App Store](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/a-study-in-steampunk/id1048462303)
- **Website:** [https://hostedgames.org/](https://hostedgames.org/)
- **Privacy policy:** [https://www.choiceofgames.com/privacy-policy/](https://www.choiceofgames.com/privacy-policy/)

## Description

A Study in Steampunk: Choice by Gaslight is a 277,000-word, text-only interactive mystery novel by Heather Albano. Inspired by Sherlock Holmes, Dracula, Jekyll & Hyde, and Jack the Ripper, the story is entirely text-based—no graphics or sound effects—and driven by your choices in a gaslit world where steam-powered mechs meet forbidden sorcery.

Set in an imperial empire, you decide whether to defend or overthrow it, advocate science or study forbidden magic, and pursue romance with any combination of partners. Endings include healer, freedom fighter, vigilante, or traitor, with countless paths branching from each decision. Heather Albano, co-author of Choice of Broadsides, Choice of Zombies, and Choice of Romance: Affairs of the Court, invites you to shape the fate of the Empire.

## Rankings

- #124,995 — Overall

## Review summary

Reviewers consistently praise A Study in Steampunk for its deep character development, top-tier writing, and lengthy, replayable story set in a steampunk Sherlock Holmes universe. The game offers multiple paths, rich world-building, and meaningful character relationships that boost immersion and replay value. The main drawback cited is the fixed male protagonist, which some players feel reduces inclusivity and role-playing options. Overall, it’s a standout Choice of Games title that shines for Sherlock Holmes and steampunk fans, though it leaves some players wishing for a female MC option.

### Pros

- Deep character development and player-driven growth across multiple paths and endings.
- Strong, engaging writing that blends science fiction, Victorian setting, and Sherlock Holmes themes.
- High replay value due to numerous branching paths and meaningful choices.
- Rich world-building and immersive atmosphere with memorable characters and relationships (e.g., Grace, Finch).

### Cons

- Gender-locked protagonist (male MC) which limits role-playing options and immersion for players who want to play as a female.

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Source: [Chrome-Stats](https://chrome-stats.com/d/id1048462303)