Sam Barlow Unveils New Sci-Fi Horror Game in Collaboration with Infinity Pool Director

Sam Barlow, renowned for his role as lead designer and writer on the Silent Hill titles Origins and Shattered Memories, as well as his indie hits like Her Story, Telling Lies, and Immortality, has unveiled the title of his previously teased project, now called Precognition. This live-action sci-fi horror game promises to deliver a unique experience.

According to a recent announcement, “Precognition follows in the footsteps of Immortality, blending cinematic FMV sequences with non-linear storytelling and emphasizing player freedom and agency.” Players will step into the shoes of Diana, a woman who gains the ability to see visions of the future after an experimental implant is placed in her brain.

Joining Barlow on this project is filmmaker Brandon Cronenberg, known for his work on Infinity Pool featuring Alexander Skarsgård and Mia Goth. Cronenberg shared, “The films I make tend to be subjective and experiential, with horror emerging as one person’s perspective of the world warps around them. The games that Sam and the team have created over the years are inherently subjective experiences—no two players will have the same journey. It’s the perfect platform to delve deeper into these themes.”

Barlow noted that the team at Half Mermaid Productions is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of non-linear storytelling, focusing on the gameplay experience while promoting player agency and freedom. Precognition aims to create a world of “cause-and-effect, where the narrative unfolds based on your choices. We wanted it to be a truly authentic sci-fi horror experience.”

Additionally, Precognition has partnered with Kinetic Publishing, a new company established this year by the developers of Phasmophobia. Alongside Precognition, four other games were announced on August 12. Kinetic Publishing’s mission is to provide indie developers with the support they need to create outstanding games while preserving their creative control. This initial lineup looks promising and innovative, with Precognition leading the way thanks to the expertise of its creators.

What’s in the running for gaming’s top honors? Let’s make some predictions.