Atari, the iconic video game company, is set to revive its classic survival horror game “Haunted House,” which initially debuted on the Atari 2600 in 1982. Developed by Orbit Studio, the team behind “Retro Machina,” the game is slated for release on October 12, 2023, across various platforms including Windows PC, PlayStation 4 and 5, Nintendo Switch, Atari VCS, and Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S.
A Unique Blend of Classic and Modern Elements
The new “Haunted House” is designed as a 2D isometric horror experience that combines elements of stealth and strategy, moving away from conventional jump scares. Players assume the role of Lyn Graves, the niece of famed treasure hunter Zachary Graves, as she embarks on a quest to find her missing uncle and friends in a haunted mansion filled with unpredictable challenges and eerie entities.
Key Features
- All-Ages Thrill Ride: The game adopts a whimsical, cartoonish art style that thinly veils its horror elements, making it suitable for players of all ages.
- Unlockable Characters: As players progress, they can unlock new characters with unique stats, offering a varied gameplay experience.
- Atari Easter Eggs: The game includes collectibles and lore that pay homage to the original “Haunted House” and other Atari classics.
- Emphasis on Stealth: Combat is de-emphasized in favor of stealth-based gameplay, requiring players to solve challenges while remaining unseen.
A Fresh Take on a Classic
The game promises to offer a unique experience with each playthrough, thanks to its shifting walls, randomized enemy placements, and an array of traps and items at the player’s disposal. Should Lyn fall victim to the sinister spirits haunting the mansion, she will find herself back at the entrance, facing a new layout and rearranged enemies, thereby ensuring that each attempt at the game is unique.
The game is set to launch on October 12, 2023, and will be available on multiple platforms.