It may be a cold and bitter January, but PM Studios doesn’t care, as every day is part of the spooky season for them. PM Studios and developer Endflame have announced a release date for their newest horror game, Ikai. This Spring, Japanese folklore come to life as Ikai releases on March 29th, 2022 for PC, PS4|5, and Nintendo Switch.
The news comes via press release from PM Studios, who accompanied the announcement with screenshots and the announcement of a demo, now live on Steam. Ikai is a different kind of horror video game. Set around Japan’s Feudal Era, Ikai has players fighting the abominations of Japanese folklore. Terrifying, disturbing demons are entering our world and it is up to Naoko, the priestess of a shrine, to end the monstrosities from entering our world.
In the spirit of Japanese Horror and psychological horror, Naoko will be battling her own demons, her past, and the present as well. Ikai focuses on first-person horror and using puzzles, as well as stealth, to overcome challenges. The demons that take hold are otherworldly and grotesque. Only by drawing seals protective seals and solving puzzles can players hope to solve and conquer the horror around them. Only by facing the horror directly can the evil be defeated.
Release Details
In addition to the digital release in March, PM Studios will be releasing a physical copy for PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, and Nintendo Switch. The physical copy will contain a postcard and stickers, with the physical game. Currently, Ikai is available for pre-order at various retailers, such as Best Buy and GameStop. The retail price will be $34.99
Ikai looks extremely sharp, even in its pre-release status. The visuals are sharp, the concept is terrifying, and the focus on problem-solving, as opposed to brute-force ghostbusting, is a commendable choice. Horror games have a big gap to fill, especially given the direction of big-time horror games like Resident Evil and Five Nights at Freddy’s. Ikai looks to be a sublime experience for those that dare to face their demons.