A Tale of War Between Body-Snatching Monsters
Logline
Fumbling with anticipation, gamers are finally getting a detailed look into “Slitterhead,” a horror game by Keiichiro Toyama (creator of Silent Hill, Siren, and Gravity Rush). The game features a battle between two types of body-stealing monsters, set in a neon-drenched fictional East Asian city.
Breakdown
- New horror game “Slitterhead” by Keiichiro Toyama.
- Set in a fictional East Asian city with a neon-lit ambiance.
- The core conflict involves two factions of body-snatching monsters: the Hyoki and the Slitterheads.
- Inspirations include John Carpenter’s “The Thing.”
Plot Beats
You play as the Hyoki, a bodiless entity that can possess humans and enhance their abilities. Your task is to hunt down the Slitterheads, insect-like creatures that also possess humans but in a messier fashion. The game starts with the player as a stray dog, evoking the chaotic and transformative horrors of Carpenter’s “The Thing.”
Cast and Crew
Keiichiro Toyama: Creator known for Silent Hill, Siren, and Gravity Rush.
Buzz and Highlights
- Player ability to possess and enhance humans adds unique gameplay mechanics.
- The game’s combat might be underwhelming, but the traversal and exploration elements are compelling.
- Use of civilians as disposable entities adds a dark twist to gameplay.
Production Notes
Toyama initially envisioned an open-world setting but scaled it back due to budget constraints, resulting in a mission-based, storyline-driven format. The decision to confine the game’s setting aids in managing development resources efficiently.
Closing Credits
“Slitterhead” releases on November 8th. Given the intriguing gameplay mechanics and narrative, horror game enthusiasts should keep their eyes peeled for this one. Perhaps it will take cues from Warren Spector’s legendary single city block RPG approach?
For more details, visit the interview on VGC.
