Blumhouse Games Surpasses Expectations, Announces Nine Horror Titles

When Blumhouse, a renowned horror movie production company, ventured into the video game industry, it initially planned to release its first title in 2026. However, the company has made significant strides, with six games already signed, including one slated for release this year. According to Blumhouse Games president Zach Wood, the team is 'at capacity' and has exceeded its schedule by over a year. The publisher's plan involves releasing a few games annually, ensuring each title receives adequate attention. The current lineup includes Fear The Spotlight, set to debut this year, followed by three titles in 2025, three in 2026, and a couple in 2027. The Blumhouse Games team, comprising seven employees, expects to expand as its portfolio grows. As a publisher, the company offers the usual services, including funding, marketing, and PR. What sets it apart is its focus on horror and its connection to the broader Blumhouse organization. This connection enables the company to access creative talent from the film side, such as pairing horror movie writer and director Brandon Cronenberg with game writer and director Sam Barlow for the upcoming Project C. The company's CFO, Don Sechler, highlights the creative support available, including input from filmmakers, directors, and writers. For instance, James Wan, known for his work on Insidious, Saw, and The Conjuring, is a gamer himself and provides feedback on key art. The developers that Blumhouse works with typically retain the rights to their games, but the company has the option to adapt them into films or TV shows. Wood emphasizes that the company doesn't view games solely as a means to create film or TV content but sees it as a bonus if a game resonates with the audience. The company's goal is to have its partners own the IP, and it aims to build long-term relationships with them. All six announced titles are original concepts, including Fear the Spotlight, Sleep Awake, and The Simulation. Although the film side of Blumhouse produces well-known horror franchises like The Purge and Paranormal Activity, the games team wants to prove itself with original concepts first. The company has received pitches for games based on Blumhouse movies but is taking its time to ensure it gets it right. The team is enthusiastic about its slate, with Wood feeling that Fear the Spotlight has the potential to be a great TV show or film. Sechler is excited about The Simulation's unique layers, while Blain believes Grave Seasons will surprise players with its cohesive blend of horror and farming elements. With the horror game market expected to grow, Blumhouse is confident that there's room for its games and a dedicated publisher. As Blain concludes, 'I don't think we'll ever run out of ways to tell scary stories, and I don't think anyone will ever be bored of them, as long as they're different, innovative, and creative.'