Iconic Horror Mastermind Carpenter Joins 'Halloween' Game Development

Two New Halloween Games in Development, Featuring John Carpenter

Boss Team Games, renowned for Evil Dead: The Game, is creating two new entries in the Halloween franchise, with the involvement of legendary director John Carpenter himself. This exciting collaboration was revealed exclusively through IGN. Carpenter, a self-described gaming enthusiast, expressed his passion for translating the terrifying Michael Myers into the video game realm, aiming to craft a truly frightening experience.

These games, currently in early development, will utilize Unreal Engine 5 and are developed in partnership with Compass International Pictures and Further Front. The official announcement promises players the chance to "relive moments from the film" and inhabit the roles of iconic franchise characters. Boss Team Games CEO Steve Harris described the collaboration with Carpenter and the opportunity to work with characters like Michael Myers as a "dream come true," emphasizing their commitment to a unique and thrilling gaming experience for horror and gaming fans alike. While details remain scarce, anticipation is high.

A Sparse History of Halloween Games

The Halloween franchise, a cornerstone of horror cinema, has a surprisingly limited video game history. The only official game, released in 1983 for the Atari 2600 by Wizard Video, cast players as a babysitter protecting children from Michael Myers. This rarity, alongside Wizard's Texas Chainsaw Massacre adaptation, has become a sought-after collector's item.

Michael Myers has appeared in more recent games as DLC, notably in Dead by Daylight, Call of Duty: Ghosts, and Fortnite (during Fortnitemares 2023).

The announcement's mention of playing as "classic characters" suggests the possibility of playing as both Michael Myers and Laurie Strode, the franchise's enduring protagonist. This mirrors the series' long-standing dynamic between the two, a key element of its enduring appeal.

The Halloween franchise, since its 1978 debut, has produced 13 films:

• Halloween (1978)
• Halloween II (1981)
• Halloween III: Season of the Witch (1982)
• Halloween 4: The Return of Michael Myers (1988)
• Halloween 5: The Revenge of Michael Myers (1989)
• Halloween: The Curse of Michael Myers (1995)
• Halloween H20: 20 Years Later (1998)
• Halloween: Resurrection (2002)
• Halloween (2007)
• Halloween (2018)
• Halloween Kills (2021)
• Halloween Ends (2022)

Horror Expertise and Gaming Passion

Boss Team Games' expertise in horror games is evident in the success of Evil Dead: The Game, developed with Saber Interactive. Its faithful adaptation of the Evil Dead franchise earned critical acclaim and spawned multiple editions, including a Game of the Year release.

Carpenter's involvement is unsurprising given his well-known passion for video games. A 2022 interview with The AV Club showcased his appreciation for Dead Space, even expressing interest in directing a film adaptation. He's also mentioned enjoying titles like Fallout 76, Borderlands, Horizon: Forbidden West, and Assassin's Creed Valhalla. This blend of gaming enthusiasm and horror expertise promises an authentic and thrilling Halloween gaming experience. Fans eagerly await further details.