Studio Abattoir is diving into the psychological horror arena with its newly-announced title, The Pines. This open world title has you venturing into a secluded retreat, where underneath its calm, quiet exterior, lies something much darker.
You are former detective Edward Walker. After a case goes cold, you are exhausted and desperate for peace. Your therapist advises you to travel to The Pines, a secluded retreat that promises quiet, recovery, and therapists on site. The community is home to a wide variety of residents from all walks of life, each carrying their own history, trauma, and secrets. What initially feels a warm and welcoming community gradually reveals itself to be something far more unsettling.
Nothing quite adds up. Minor details refuse to align, and the more you investigate the community, the harder it becomes to ignore the feeling that everything is connected. You must uncover the truth behind The Pines. And while doing it, stay alive.
Being a former detective, you have a unique set of skills. You’ll notice details that others overlook, connect clues that don’t seem related, and uncover hidden truths through investigation. Gather evidence, piece together stories, and decide who to trust.
The Pines sports a nifty gameplay mechanic known as the Stalker System, where your actions have consequences. Say the wrong thing, cross the wrong person, or dig too deep, and a resident who once seemed harmless will take an unhealthy interest in you as a stalker.
Unfortunately, guns and ammo are in short supply. That leaves you having to rely on various melee weapons such as bats, axes and more to defend yourself. You’ll need to work on your dodge and parry mechanics, and strike at the right moment.
You can wishlist The Pines now on Steam.