It’s not every day that a cult classic horror film from the late 80s gets a video game adaptation, but that’s precisely the thrill that awaited attendees at the Gamescom convention in Cologne, Germany.
The electrifying revelation was that the 1988 cult classic horror film, Killer Klowns from Outer Space, was on its path to becoming a multiplayer horror game. And not just any adaptation, but one helmed by the renowned IllFonic, in partnership with TeraVision Games.
Killer Klowns, though originally slated for publishing by Good Shepherd Entertainment, is switching hands. The IllFonic team, known for their expertise in asymmetrical multiplayer games, has stepped up to the challenge, taking on the co-development and publishing responsibilities.
Initially, some raised their eyebrows at the notion of turning Killer Klowns into a video game. After all, it isn’t that every horror film that lends itself easily to an interactive experience. However, any doubts were put to rest when the game’s concept was unveiled. With a 3 vs 7 asymmetrical survival horror setting, it’s akin to well-known titles such as Friday the 13th: The Game and Dead by Daylight. A playground for horror aficionados, to say the least.
With IllFonic at the helm, there’s reason to feel excited. Its portfolio is full of similar games, with titles like Predator: Hunting Grounds, Ghostbusters: Spirits Unleashed, and the aforementioned Friday the 13th: The Game under their belt. The acquisition of Killer Klowns aligns perfectly with their forte.
When IllFonic’s CEO and co-founder, Charles Brungardt, took the stage at Gamescom, his enthusiasm was evident, saying that working with Teravision Games is a “dream come true.” Brungardt emphasized the importance of delivering an experience that allows players to “truly immerse themselves” in the world of Killer Klowns, echoing the commitment of the original developers to stay faithful to the essence of the movie.
Yet, what’s intriguing is the potential for expansion beyond the initial release. With the combined efforts of Teravision and IllFonic, there’s a promise of “lengthy post-launch support” for the game, as highlighted by TeraVision Games’ CEO and co-founder, Enrique Fuentes. His sentiments resonate with the gaming community’s desire for ongoing content and experiences.
However, a cloud of uncertainty hovers over the release platforms. The game was announced for the PlayStation 5, the Xbox Series S/X, and PC via Steam, omitting them from the PlayStation 4 and Xbox One versions. Such absences aren’t taken lightly by the gaming community, leading to speculations and concerns. Although IllFonic reassured the versions for these platforms are in the works, the exact timeline remains nebulous.
As it stands, Killer Klowns from Outer Space: The Game is an ambitious venture, infusing the haunting charisma of one of the horror genre’s most iconic films with the interactivity of gaming. IllFonic’s involvement reassures fans of the studio’s prowess in this niche. Whether or not this game manages to stand out amidst the barrage of Dead by Daylight clones remains to be seen. Still, one thing’s for sure: with the nightmarish allure of the Killer Klowns and the expertise of IllFonic and Teravision Games, this horror adaptation promises a spine-chilling experience for gamers around the globe – the clowns are coming, and they’re hungrier than ever.
This year has been hauntingly good for fans of the genre, with Resident Evil 4 and Dead Space all coming out within just two months of each other.
Illfonic most recently released Ghostbusters: Spirits Unleashed last year.
