What is doki doki?

"Doki Doki" is a Japanese onomatopoeia that mimics the sound of a heartbeat, often used to express excitement or nervousness. It gained significant recognition from the visual novel game "Doki Doki Literature Club!" released by Team Salvato in 2017. The game initially presents itself as a light-hearted dating simulator but gradually reveals a darker, psychological horror storyline. It explores themes of mental health, existential dread, and the nature of reality, often breaking the fourth wall and manipulating the game environment to enhance its unsettling atmosphere.

The game centers around the player character who joins a high school literature club and interacts with four main female characters: Sayori, Natsuki, Yuri, and Monika. As the story progresses, unusual and disturbing events occur, leading to an unraveling of each girl's mental state, with Monika playing a pivotal role in manipulating the game's code to achieve her objectives.

"Doki Doki Literature Club!" received acclaim for its innovative approach to storytelling and its ability to subvert traditional visual novel tropes, making it a memorable experience that challenges the player's expectations and perception. The game has been credited for addressing serious topics while utilizing its medium in unique ways, prompting discussions around its impact on both players and the genre.