Frictional Games, the independent Swedish studio celebrated for its atmospheric horror experiences, is embarking on a new chapter with the announcement of *ONTOS*.The title, developed in partnership with Kepler Interactive, represents a continuation of the studio’s exploration of psychological horror, following the success of titles like *Amnesia* and *SOMA[[1]]. The project, slated for a 2026 release on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S, features the vocal talents of Golden Globe-winner stellan Skarsgård, signaling an increased investment in narrative depth and cinematic presentation within the gaming landscape.
Frictional Games, the studio behind critically acclaimed horror titles like Amnesia: The Dark Descent and SOMA, has partnered with Kepler Interactive to develop ONTOS, a new project slated for release in 2026. The game will be available on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series XIS consoles.
Featuring Golden Globe-winning actor Stellan Skarsgård, ONTOS is envisioned as a spiritual successor to SOMA, but with a distinctly more unsettling and surreal atmosphere. This announcement signals a continued trend of high-profile actors lending their talents to the gaming industry, blurring the lines between interactive entertainment and cinematic storytelling.
Players will assume the role of Aditi Amani, an inventive engineer investigating the Samsara hotel on the moon to uncover secrets surrounding her father. The Samsara is built within the ruins of a former mining colony, and the game will feature an open, interconnected environment for players to explore as they search for the truth. Each area of the Samsara holds a unique story, with hidden elements waiting to be discovered.
The developers are drawing inspiration from their earlier title, Penumbra, by implementing a system where puzzles don’t have a single, definitive solution. Players will be encouraged to utilize creativity and find multiple ways to overcome obstacles. This design choice emphasizes player agency and replayability, a growing focus in modern game development.
Image source: Steam
