The 2007 film Paranormal Activity stands out as one of the most chilling horror movies ever produced, not due to lavish budgets or excessive gore, but by preying on our primal fears of isolation in darkness, accentuated by the sound of creaking ceilings above us. This core understanding of fear is also evident in the reveal trailer for the upcoming spin-off game, Paranormal Activity: Threshold, unveiled by indie publisher DreadXP and DarkStone Digital, the creators behind The Mortuary Assistant, anticipated for release in 2024.
New Explorations in the Paranormal Universe
Like the original 2007 film, Threshold illustrates the folly of trusting misguided relationships. In the movie, Micah begins documenting Katie, his girlfriend who has been experiencing hauntings since her youth. In the game, players follow a young couple, Daniel and Jessica, as they film their home renovation, only to uncover disturbing truths hidden within their seemingly safe abode.
A Troubling Situation
“The only house we can afford!” Daniel exclaims in the trailer for Threshold, trying to convince Jessica that the unsettling feelings she experiences are merely side effects of carbon monoxide exposure. Perhaps a malfunctioning detector?
Unearthing Dark Secrets
His reasoning sounds as ill-informed as Micah’s comments in the film, which makes it all the more gratifying when the trailer reveals his misjudgments. A shadow lurks ominously in one corner, and what do these cryptic symbols on the ouija board signify? Panic ensues as Jessica is seen weeping, suggesting that escape from their predicament may not be an option—only a descent into deeper horrors.
According to the game’s Steam page, players can expect activities such as ghost hunting, engaging in demonic rituals, and navigating multiple timelines. Furthermore, the innovative “Paranormal Engine” promises to create unique experiences with each playthrough, if players can manage the challenges that lie ahead.
While Paranormal Activity: Threshold is yet to receive a confirmed release date, gamers looking for thrill can check out the 25 best horror games currently available.