Main protagonist of Pyromaniac. A troubled 20-year-old man whose fascination with fire, family trauma, isolation, and deteriorating mental state form the foundation of the game's psychological horror narrative.
Has a strong fascination with fire, which began during his teenage years. Uses fire as a coping mechanism and a way to temporarily relieve inner tension. Experiences disturbing hallucinations and perceptual disturbances. Struggles with emotional regulation and controlling his impulses. Carries considerable guilt, grief, and resentment. Can be determined and resourceful, especially when trying to survive. Appears to have difficulty seeking help and accepting his circumstances.
Speaks in clipped, spreadsheet-like bursts; corrects small details; trails off when interrupted.
Find answers about his surroundings and what happened to him. Cope with grief and the loss of his family. Find relief from his uncontrollable urges. Escape his psychological suffering. Regain control over himself. Ultimately, find a way out of his increasingly destructive mental state.
His family life subsequently deteriorated. His father was diagnosed with lung cancer and discovered his wife's infidelity. Unable to cope with his circumstances, he died by suicide. His mother eventually abandoned Nikolas, leaving him increasingly isolated. He kept his father's lighter as a sentimental reminder, hoping that playing with it would calm his growing urges. However, his condition continued to deteriorate. At the beginning of the game, Nikolas wakes up on a bench near a bus stop in an unfamiliar city, with no recollection of how he got there. He encounters scorched monsters and searches for answers while navigating the mysterious environment.
