Frictional Games, the renowned creators of terrifying titles such as SOMA and Amnesia: Dark Descent, recently introduced their new project, “Ontos,” at The Game Awards. This highly anticipated sci-fi mystery adventure, which has been meticulously developed over a decade, promises a unique blend of exploration, intricate puzzle-solving, and profound moral choices, all set within a haunting lunar landscape. Players will step into the shoes of Aditi Amani, an engineer determined to uncover the truth behind her estranged father's disappearance within the enigmatic Samsara moon hotel.
New Sci-Fi Horror “Ontos” Announced by Frictional Games, Slated for 2026 Release
In a thrilling announcement at The Game Awards, Frictional Games, celebrated for its atmospheric and psychologically rich horror titles, lifted the veil on their next major project, “Ontos.” This new venture into sci-fi mystery has been a decade in the making and is scheduled for release in 2026, marking a significant milestone for the studio.
The game invites players into a chilling narrative centered around Aditi Amani, a gifted engineer. Her quest leads her to the desolate yet intriguing Samsara, a former lunar hotel now transformed into a sprawling, interconnected labyrinth built upon the remnants of a failed mining operation. Aditi's perilous journey through Samsara is driven by a deeply personal motive: to find her estranged father and unravel the mysteries surrounding his absence.
“Ontos” promises an immersive experience where players must rely on their resourcefulness, scavenging for essential items and manipulating complex machinery to navigate the treacherous environment. The game emphasizes challenging moral decisions as Aditi encounters grotesque “Experiments” lurking within Samsara's depths. Frictional Games highlights that there are no straightforward solutions to the challenges presented, compelling players to exercise their intellect and creativity. Every choice will carry weight, leading to profound consequences that shape Aditi's narrative and her understanding of the truth.
Early glimpses of the game suggest a world filled with unsettling imagery: a computer connected to a multitude of mice, a woman desperately grappling with a wound on her neck, and a disembodied head connected to wires yet disturbingly alive. Adding to the mystique is the voice of Stellan Skarsgård, portraying an elegantly dressed man who poses existential questions from the lunar hotel's lobby, further deepening the philosophical underpinnings of the game. These fragmented yet compelling scenes offer a glimpse into the game's dark and thought-provoking atmosphere, hinting at a narrative that delves into the very essence of existence and humanity.
“Ontos” is poised to deliver a unique blend of narrative depth, intricate gameplay, and psychological horror, pushing the boundaries of interactive storytelling. With its long development cycle and the creative minds behind SOMA, players can anticipate a deeply engaging and unsettling adventure.
The announcement of "Ontos" stirs anticipation for Frictional Games' continued innovation in psychological horror. Their commitment to deep narratives and player agency, evident in this decade-long project, suggests a game that will not only thrill but also provoke profound contemplation on the nature of reality and moral choices. It's an exciting prospect for fans of immersive storytelling and unsettling mysteries.
