I write about video games for a living, yet I often find myself unable to indulge in the titles I long to play, especially in the realm of live-service games. Despite my fond memories of Phasmophobia from late 2020, I have not launched this ghost-hunting horror game even once in the past five years.
As an avid horror enthusiast, I have explored a wide array of titles, from linear single-player experiences like Silent Hill and Crow Country to asynchronous multiplayer games such as Dead by Daylight and The Texas Chain Saw Massacre. Naturally, when Phasmophobia took the gaming world by storm on Twitch in 2020, I felt compelled to join the fray.
Immersive Gameplay
In Phasmophobia, players step into the shoes of paranormal investigators, tasked with uncovering the mysteries of haunted locations. Armed not with weapons, but with ghost-hunting tools like EMF readers, spirit boxes, and incense, players must identify the ghost type and escape with their lives. The challenge intensifies as your sanity wanes, and the specter may decide to hunt you down. If you perish, you lose your gear, making every investigation a heart-pounding race against time.
What sets Phasmophobia apart is its ability to maintain a sense of fear even after multiple playthroughs. Unlike other horror games, where familiarity can dull the scares, Phasmophobia keeps players on edge. Each match is unique, with the potential for a ghost to appear at any moment, ensuring that dread lingers in the air. When the lights flicker, players instinctively dash for safety, embodying the game’s thrilling unpredictability.
However, one significant drawback has kept me at bay since its launch: the lack of companions to share the experience. Many aspects of the game shine brightest when played with friends, and certain maps can feel nearly impossible to navigate alone. Nevertheless, I discovered that solo play offers plenty of excitement, especially during events like the annual Crimson Eye celebration.
A Fresh Experience
Returning to Phasmophobia after five years felt like stepping into a new world. The game has expanded significantly, with new maps and an impressive roster of 24 ghost types—double the original count. A plethora of fresh items awaits discovery, all unlockable through an engaging progression system that spans 80 player levels. For those who felt the game lacked depth in 2020, the current offering is sure to impress. With ongoing updates, the potential for more content remains high.
As someone who enjoys progression mechanics, I find the item unlocks particularly satisfying. Starting with basic ghost-hunting gear, players must level up to access advanced tools. For instance, you’ll need to reach level 14 to use sanity pills or level 32 for an upgraded parabolic microphone. This system rewards players for their efforts, enhancing the gameplay experience as they progress.
Each job presents optional quests that yield valuable XP and cash, encouraging players to take risks. Recently, I found myself in a seemingly safe match, having identified the ghost as a Raiju named John. However, I still needed to capture unique footage and photos to maximize my rewards. Faced with the choice of retreating or risking it all for extra XP, I chose the latter—only to meet an untimely demise. This risk/reward dynamic adds a layer of depth to the game, forcing players to make critical decisions under pressure.
Solo Play and Accessibility
While Phasmophobia is enjoyable solo, it does have limitations. Smaller maps are often more manageable for lone players, and time constraints can hinder exploration. The game shines when played with a microphone, allowing players to engage with the ghost by asking questions and calling out its name. This interactive element enhances immersion, making each encounter feel more personal.
Another appealing aspect of Phasmophobia is the absence of missable seasonal content. Players are not pressured to complete limited-time challenges or return for new items every few months. Instead, they can enjoy the game at their own pace, with permanent challenges and modes available for those seeking variety.
My return to Phasmophobia was primarily motivated by the captivating Crimson Eye Halloween event, featuring stunning visuals of red rain and demonic markings. However, the core game itself has evolved into a richer experience, free from the stress of seasonal obligations. With the upcoming launch of Nell’s Diner map on November 11, there has never been a better time to immerse yourself in this haunting adventure.
