Serial Experiments Lain PS1 box art

PlayStation · Simulation

Serial Experiments Lain

SystemPlayStation
Released1998
GenreSimulation
DeveloperPioneer
PublisherPioneer
Players1 player
CommitmentWeekend project (Roughly 6–20 hours)
LegacyWell-known · legacy score 8

Developed by Pioneer, Serial Experiments Lain arrived on the PlayStation in 1998 as a simulation game.

It landed about 3 years into the PS1's life. Other notable PS1 releases from 1998 include Metal Gear Solid, Resident Evil 2 and Tomb Raider II. Among the 40 PS1 simulation games in our database, it ranks #10 by legacy score.

Serial Experiments Lain is a single-player game, so it's one to enjoy at your own pace.

Pick it if…

  • you want to think and plan
  • you have time for a weekend project (roughly 6–20 hours)

Maybe skip it if…

  • you want clear goals and a defined ending
  • you are looking for something to play with friends

What playing Serial Experiments Lain is like

Simulation games model a system and let you play inside it, whether that means building a city, flying a plane, raising a pet or running a business.

Tip for newcomers: Simulations are often open-ended. Set yourself small goals and enjoy experimenting with the systems.

Serial Experiments Lain gameplay screenshot on PS1
In-game screenshot (PS1)

Serial Experiments Lain walkthroughs & guides

Stuck, or want to go deeper? These trusted sites have full walkthroughs, completion times and more for Serial Experiments Lain.

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Playing PS1 games today

PS1 games range from quick arcade racers to 60-hour RPGs. A selection is available through PlayStation Plus Premium, and if you own the discs you can play your backups in an emulator such as Rec0m88.

Serial Experiments Lain FAQ

When did Serial Experiments Lain come out on the PS1?

Serial Experiments Lain was released for the PlayStation in 1998.

Who made Serial Experiments Lain?

It was developed by Pioneer.

Is Serial Experiments Lain multiplayer?

No. Serial Experiments Lain is a single-player game.

How long does Serial Experiments Lain take to play?

As a simulation game, Serial Experiments Lain typically falls into the "Weekend project" category: roughly 6–20 hours. Your time will vary with skill and how much you explore.

Read more about Serial Experiments Lain on Wikipedia. Facts on this page are compiled from the open libretro database and Wikidata; "legacy score" reflects how widely a game is documented across Wikipedia's language editions. Spotted an error? Let us know.

Not sure? Let the Matrix pick for you